31 Best Gifts for the Mom Who Says She Needs Nothing But Deserves Everything
Updated: Apr. 24, 2024
From personalized jewelry to unique beauty treatments, we found gifts for mom that are as special as she is.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
Moms are like superheroes: They keep a watchful eye on everything, making you feel safe and secure. But how do you show your appreciation to these everyday warriors? Finding the best gifts for mom to express your gratitude is a good start.
We’ve done the research and found the A+ gifts for her, from little luxuries to practical presents she wants but won’t buy herself. No two moms are alike, so there are options for every personality type at all price points. Whether it’s Christmas, her birthday, or just a thank you gift, she’ll be so touched by your thoughtfulness that you’ll be the superhero in her eyes.
For the jet-setting mom
Béis The Weekender Bag
The mom who’s always planning her next trip will appreciate a bag that makes traveling so much easier. Béis’ The Weekender comes with a large top compartment that fits days’ worth of clothes and toiletries, plus a separate pouch on the bottom for shoes and hair tools. It also has extra smart features like a pass-through sleeve that secures the bag to carry-on luggage.
“The Béis Mini Weekender is a solid travel bag for any excursion,” writes our tester, Andrea Carrillo, in her Béis review. “It’s great quality, has tons of storage and looks so chic. I see it becoming my go-to bag for weekend trips and vacations. Plus, for less than $100, I like knowing that this affordable luggage doesn’t break the bank.”
For the lifelong learner
MasterClass Virtual Classes
Whether she’s interested in bread baking, photography or almost any other subject you can think of, MasterClass offers an expert to teach her. An annual membership gives her access to more than 180 classes taught by A-listers like Gordon Ramsay, Helen Mirren and Simone Biles. Mom can download the 10-minute video lessons to watch at her convenience, so she can embrace her love of learning and maybe pick up a few new hobbies!
For the scent-sational mom
Scentbird Subscription
Help your mom discover her new signature scent with a Scentbird subscription. Each month, she’ll receive an 8-milliliter bottle of perfume or cologne of her choice. This affordable beauty subscription box offers thousands of perfumes and colognes to choose from, along with expansive reviews and scent profiles to help her find the right scent for her.
For the decor obsessed mom
Uncommon Goods Terrarium Candle
Indoor plants and scented candles are two excellent gifts for Mom, so imagine her joy when you combine the two. These beautiful candles from artist Zoe Tang are hand-poured into realistic-looking succulent and poppy shapes that smell as lovely as they look. Plus, they don’t require watering. Although they have a burn time of more than 30 hours, there’s a good chance Mom will find them too pretty to light—she’ll just want to display them as pieces of art.
For the super mom
Rifle Paper Co. Super Mom Porcelain Mug
Show her what she means to you with this porcelain mug that spells it right out for her. The adorable Super Mom illustration will boost her mood even more than her morning caffeine, and the metallic gold accents are appropriately fit for a queen. It’s a lovely gift for a tea lover.
For the skincare fanatic
SolaWave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand and Serum Kit
Grant her the gift of glowing skin with this SolaWave set that estheticians adore. The wand utilizes scientifically backed microcurrent red light therapy. The serum is packed with hyaluronic acid, aloe and blue tansy. All it takes is five minutes a day, three times a week to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles, blemishes and dark spots.
“After using this red light therapy wand on my own skin for the past 21 days, I’ve noticed my fine lines are far less pronounced. I’ve also been receiving compliments about how I look “radiant” and “glowy,” Anna Maria Giambanco DiPietro, a licensed esthetician, writes in her SolaWave review.
For the pajama set collector
Cozy Earth Bamboo Pajama Set
The name says it all here. This amazingly soft bamboo pajama set from Cozy Earth is the ultimate upgrade to her current sleepwear collection. Made of luxurious, bamboo-based fabric, they’re stretchy, yet stylish, and flattering for every type of body. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, and can be customized to her preferences.
“I loved being able to order a custom pajama set, to mix a long-sleeve top with short bottoms,” Megan Mowery, our tester, writes in her Cozy Earth review. “Since I’m extra short, long bottoms are typically a no-go. I like that the customization options make these pajamas accessible to just about everyone.”
Score our favorite editor-tested Cozy Earth pajamas and products for 35% off with code READERSDIGEST from April 12 through May 16. Silk, cashmere and some new products are excluded.
For the mom with cold feet
Warmies Slippers
Comfy slippers for women are a no-brainer, last-minute Mother’s Day gift for moms who are always cold. These luxurious, faux-fur Warmies live up to their name. What’s extra special about them is that they’re lightly scented with French lavender, which is known for its relaxation properties. Even better, mom can microwave them for added warmth.
For the chill mom
Onsen Waffle Bath Robe
When you’re totally stumped on what to buy, you can’t go wrong with self-care gifts for Mom. A high-quality soothing bathrobe is a universally loved pick, and this Onsen robe tops our list. The waffle-weave softie features breathable Supima cotton that’s suitable to wear straight out of the shower. Its relaxed-fit silhouette and cozy hood let mom cocoon herself in comfort for some much-deserved R&R.
For the fresh bouquet lover
UrbanStems Bouquets
Fresh flowers are a classic gift for Mom, but if you want something more unique than red roses, head over to UrbanStems. You’ll find show-stopping bouquets, dried flowers, plants and subscription boxes. The site also boasts a wide range of delightful and functional gifts, such as olive oil, self-watering pots, candles, essential oil diffusers and even hot sauce.
Our Product Testing Team ordered a bouquet to check UrbanStems’ quality, along with other online flower delivery services. “If you’re looking for a bouquet that’s more than a garden variety arrangement, then look no further than UrbanStems. An added highlight is the site suggests the perfect occasion for each bouquet,” they write.
For the runner
Lululemon Blissfeel 2 Running Shoes
Lululemon’s debut sneakers are as chic as you would expect from the premier exercise brand, but they’re also ridiculously comfortable. They’re a must-have for any Lululemon-wearing mom and a winning gift for runners, whether she’s just running errands or sprinting through a 5K. Choose among the six neutral color options.
For the beauty-obsessed mom
Allure Beauty Box Subscription
Subscription boxes are so much fun to receive and, if your mom never leaves the house without looking her best, she’ll love a subscription to the Allure beauty box. Each month, she’ll receive a selection of products carefully curated by the editors of Allure to try the items everyone’s raving about.
“I’ve gifted this beauty subscription box to my mom for the past few years, and she still hasn’t tired of it yet,” writes Mowery. “Each box is filled with high-quality and often full-sized products. If you’re lucky, your mom might just share her leftovers with you as mine does with me.”
For the connected mom
Aura Mason Digital Frame
Mom never gets enough photos of her family members, especially the grandkids. This digital frame from Aura may end up being her favorite gift ever. Through the app, everyone sends photos and videos straight to the frame, keeping Mom up to date and making her day as new ones pop up unexpectedly. She can turn the frame horizontally or vertically and will position it in a place of honor in her home.
For the one with a sweet tooth
Sprinkles Favorites Dozen Box
Watch mom’s face light up when she sees the Sprinkles logo on this box just like yours did when she made cupcakes for your childhood birthdays. No one does decadent cupcakes like Sprinkles, and its assorted cupcake collection features four of its bestsellers. There are three Red Velvet, three Vanilla, three Dark Chocolate and three Sprinkle cupcakes.
For the long-distance mom
Bond Touch More
Let Mom know you’re thinking about her with just a touch of this smart bracelet from Bond Touch. Wherever you are—even if you don’t have time to text or call—simply tap your Bond Touch and she’ll feel the vibration and see the light on hers, so she’ll know you’re OK. The Bond Touch More connects with up to three other people so mom can keep track of the whole family and feel like everyone is still close. You can even create different tap patterns for each family member.
for the stylish mom
Rothy's The Point
Mom will never have to choose between style and comfort when she has these signature flats from Rothy’s. They make any outfit look better, whether she’s wearing a pair of jeans or a little black dress, yet they feel as easygoing as a pair of sneakers. They’re even machine washable. Best of all, they’re knit from Rothy’s signature thread, which contains single-use plastic bottles, proving there are ways to recycle anything.
for the mom who likes to layer
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Cardigan Sweater
Mom likes to be prepared and always reminds you to take a sweater because you never know when it’ll get chilly. Show her you’ve been listening by gifting her this Quince cardigan that’s available in a dozen colors and goes with, well, everything. She’ll also be impressed that it comes from the makers of the viral $50 Quince cashmere sweater and by the fact that it’s roomy, soft and oh-so cozy.
For the mom who wants to sparkle
Magnasonic Ultrasonic Jewelry Cleaner
Mom keeps everything clean for you, so return the favor with the Magnasonic ultrasonic jewelry cleaner, a serious workhouse that’ll make her precious jewelry shine. Using ultrasonic sound waves, this handy ultrasonic jewelry cleaner also cleans other valuables, like eyeglasses and watches, gently but thoroughly. The machine itself is compact but features a roomy compartment that holds a number of items at once.
For the mom who's always on her feet
Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot and Calf Massager
Moms are always running around, getting things done for everyone in the family, and that takes a toll on their feet. Treat her to this foot and leg massager that uses Shiatsu techniques to focus on pressure points to help circulation and reduce inflammation. She can customize the intensity and adjust the massage for five different modes, including simple heat therapy and calming relaxation. This would make one of the best gifts for nurses and doctors, who are also on their feet all day.
for the mom who likes to grow her own
Petite Meyer Lemon Tree
If she’s the kind of mom who believes in making lemonade when life gives her lemons, she’ll love nurturing this little fruit-bearing citrus tree. Whether she plants it in the ground or keeps it on a windowsill, it requires nothing but sunshine and regular watering to burst into bloom. Don’t be surprised when she starts cleaning with lemons, too!
For the jigsaw junkie
Galison Houseplant Jungle 1,000-Piece Puzzle
Moms who love doing puzzles will have a blast piecing together this jungle puzzle from Galison. The pretty jigsaw puzzle earns high ratings for its vibrant design and glossy colors. Don’t worry if you can’t find Mom for a few hours—she’ll likely be searching for “just one more piece.”
for the couch potato
Lake Pima Pajama Set
For the nights she wants to binge-watch her favorite show or just catch up on sleep, this pretty pink shorts set is ideal for keeping her comfortable any time of year. Made of luxurious 100% Pima cotton, which some call the “cashmere of cotton,” it’s the epitome of effortless style and one of the top pajama upgrade gifts for mom.
Our editors love this pajama set, too. “Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by Lake PJs,” writes our deputy shopping editor, Reina Galhea, in our Lake pajamas review. “I’ve slept in this set for several weeks now without a single comfort complaint. It gives my old sleep clothes a run for their money, and looks a lot cuter!”
For the sentimental mom
Minted Heart Snapshot Photo Art
She will totally heart this custom collage from Minted that’s filled with photos of the people (and pets!) she loves. Choose from a variety of frames, colors and sizes to create a truly personalized gift that’ll mean the world to her. It will also mean a lot to you when you see it hanging in a place of pride.
For the mom on the go
RTIC 20-Can Soft Pack Cooler
Whether she’s packing an afternoon’s worth of snacks for the kids or is in charge of libations for a much-needed mom’s night out, this RTIC soft pack cooler holds it all. It comes in four sizes and 10 colors so you can choose Mom’s favorite. This 20-can cooler is large enough to hold lunch and snacks for a family of six, yet compact enough to fit in a large stroller basket.
For the dog mom
Anthropologie Faux-Fur Throw Blanket
Is there anything better than cuddling up on the couch with a puppy by your side? If Mom has a furry best friend, make her couch cuddles even cozier with an ultra-soft throw blanket from Anthropologie. We like that this one comes in seven shades so you can choose the giftee’s favorite. Its luxe faux-fur is made using eco-friendly production methods, and free from harmful chemicals and irritants. Just don’t be surprised if her dog claims it as much as she does!
For the reality show lover
Literie Nine Lemons in a Bowl Candle
We love Literie for creating candles scented like Pizza From a Guy Named Joe and Late Fees at the Library (a fun gift for book lovers). But the brand has totally outdone itself with its Bravo collaboration starring, of course, The Real Housewives. Although we’re partial to this citrus and ivy candle, dubbed Nine Lemons in a Bowl, for its feng shui potential, fans of the reality TV show will be all over the collection, which features scented candles that include Money Can’t Buy You Class and Flipping Tables. IYKYK.
For the nostalgic Barbie girl
Barbie Book
Assouline’s gorgeous coffee table book is a real conversation piece and a treasure for Barbie fans. A celebration of the iconic doll as she turns 65, the Barbie book is a true collector’s item, featuring more than 350 illustrations and an in-depth history that demonstrates Barbie’s cultural influence and influences. This is a beautiful and empowering gift for your mom, your sister, your besties or any of the women in your life.
For the nap queen
Maison Miru Pink Quartz and White Topaz Nap Earrings
A mom’s to-do list never ends, so removing her jewelry is the last thing she should worry about when she’s about to get some shut eye. These dainty Maison Miru earrings are designed especially for napping. Like many nap earrings, they feature flat backs so Mom won’t get poked while she’s trying to sleep. And since they’re made from medical-grade titanium, they’re safe for sensitive ears.
“While these earrings take some practice to get on and off, they absolutely stand up to their claim of no-poke, no-pinch wear that you won’t feel while sleeping (or at any other time),” writes Galhea in her nap earrings review. “Pro tip: Use one of your regular earring posts to guide the backings of these nap earrings in.”
For the proud mama
Baby Gold Engravable Round Coin Charm
You could add baby’s name to this elegant 14-karat gold coin charm from Baby Gold, but we love the moniker “Mama” to honor the mom in your life’s proudest achievement. Handcrafted in Los Angeles, the classic pendant necklace will class up any and every outfit, even the ones dappled with apple sauce. It’s available in 14-karat yellow gold, white gold and rose gold.
For the java lover
Philips Espresso 3200 with LatteGo
Push two buttons—OK, three if you count the power button—to get a freshly brewed cup of joe made from beans ground on the spot with the hassle-free café-style coffee maker from Philips. Choose from five types of coffee—espresso, coffee, Americano, cappuccino and latte macchiato—and even select your quantity and brew strength. For fans of froth, there’s no monkeying with handheld frothers needed because a built-in milk-frothing system does all the heavy lifting.
Our executive editor, Aviva Patz, has been using this coffeemaker for months and can attest that moms who are big on coffee but short on time will appreciate this gadget.
For the sleep-deprived mom
Salvatore Ferragamo Sunglasses
If the baby is keeping Mom up at night, gift her the chicest possible camouflage for weary eyes: a pair of celebrity-endorsed sunglasses from Italian luxury fashion house Salvatore Ferragamo. Available in bold black, red and tortoise acetate, these retro rectangular sunnies give even the most exhausted new mom some instant Hollywood glam.
Originally Published: May 04, 2022
