28 best Christmas gifts for parents that they'll really appreciate

Our curated list of the best Christmas gifts for parents includes ideas that provide solutions to their everyday inconveniences as well as sentimental finds that will warm their hearts.

Maybe that solution is a clever robot vacuum that saves them a weekly chore, or a set that simplifies the complicated, like pesky fitted sheets that never stay in place. Perhaps, they need a gift to help them unwind or a present that will give them quality time with the whole family.

We've included all of these present ideas and more in our guide to the best Christmas gifts for parents this year—perfect for both new and veteran parents alike (even great Christmas gifts for grandparents, too). 

Best Christmas gifts for parents 2021

1. Personalized Family Portrait Photo

RRP: $56.71/£40 | Delivery: 2-10 day shipping | Refundable?: No | Region: US and UK

As one of our favorite unique Christmas gifts, this portrait is a modern display and family heirloom in one. You can customize the print with your family's name, photos, and the number of members. For every order placed, the award-winning small business The Drifting Bear Co. will plant one tree in the region of your choice, making it one of the best sustainable Christmas gifts on the market. 

• View Personalized Family Portrait Photo at Not On The High Street

2. The Family Christmas Hamper

RRP: $363.85/£250 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

The best Christmas gifts can be enjoyed by the entire family, like this festive hamper from Fortnum & Mason. It's chock-full of sweet treats and savory bites, complemented by teas, coffees, and much more. It's a nice way to contribute to the festive spread if your parents are hosting Christmas this year and unsurprisingly, this  selection of treats earned a top spot in our best Christmas hampers guide.

• View The Family Christmas Hamper at Fortnum & Mason

3. Ravensburger Disney Vintage Posters 1000-piece Puzzle

RRP: $16.50/£14 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

For the snow days spent at home, this colossal puzzle will keep the whole family entertained. Made of premium-grade cardboard, the puzzle displays rich history, with a colorful array of Disney posters from different eras. Suitable for ages 12 years and up.

• View Ravensburger Disney Vintage Posters 1000-piece Puzzle at Selfridges

4. Nespresso Evoluo Machine

RRP: $199.95/£79.99 | Delivery: 2-7 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

The Nespresso Evoluo is a versatile gadget that brews five drink varieties: espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, coffee, and alto. It's portable and light to store, but durable against wear from continued use. More notably, the machine scans and reads the bar code on your Vertuo capsule, ensuring precise brewing for your specific beverage.

It's one of the best Christmas gifts for couples too, especially those with small children or busy schedules who rely on their daily caffine fix. 

Editor's note: In regards to manufacturing, Nespresso partners with Breville and DeLonghi in the U.S. and Krups and Magimix in the UK and Europe.

• View The DeLonghi Nespresso Evoluo at Williams Sonoma / View The Krups Nespresso Evoluo at Amazon UK 

5. Mr & Mrs Smith Gift Card

RRP: $50/£50 | Delivery: Immediate | Refundable? Yes, should you cancel a reservation | Region: US and UK

If your parents need (read: absolutely deserve) a getaway, look no further. Mr & Mrs Smith offers a luxe selection of the world’s best boutique and luxury hotels, along with tailored experiences. The options are limitless: a weekend away at a fancy villa reserved for society's elite, a spa retreat for two and trips to some of the best holiday destinations for the over 50s in the world. 

• View Mr & Mrs Smith Gift Card at Mr and Mrs Smith

6. SMIRLY Cheese Board and Knife Set

RRP: $59.99/£59.16 | Delivery: 2-8 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

The Smirly Cheese Board is ideal for parents who are avid turophiles or simply love great picnics. This charcuterie board embodies rustic charm, with wood and bamboo detailing throughout. Whether they're hosting an event or enjoying the spread as a duo, it's conveniently sized to hold fruits, cheeses, crackers, and other hors d'oeuvres. The slide-out drawers containing stainless steel knives and serving tools make storing the set easy. Why not give your parents a hamper of artisan cheeses and charcuterie along with this board for one of the best Christmas food gifts ever?

• View Smirly Cheese Board and Knife Set at Amazon / at Amazon UK

7. Brooklinen Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle

RRP: From $240/£180 | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 1-year return policy | Region: US and UK

Every parent dreams of crisp, clean sheets. So, gift them the internet-famous Brooklinen Luxe bundle, coming in a variety of shades for any bedroom color scheme. Albeit pricey, it offers exceptional value—each set offers a fitted sheet, flat sheet, duvet cover, and four pillowcases. You can even mix and match colors and sizes for a personalized flair. Pair this present with the best pillows, and they'll doze off in no time.

• View Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle at Brooklinen

8. Coredy Robot Vacuum Cleaner

RRP: $320.99/£279.99 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK 

Help tidy their abode with the Coredy Robot Cleaner, which operates through voice commands with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It detects dirt, suctions it in mere seconds, and moves seamlessly between surfaces, be it floor to carpet. It also features a controlled water pump ideal for mopping.

With the brand's smart app, parents can control the vacuum's every move, view its battery status, schedule cleaning, and customize cleaning modes and mopping levels. 

• View Coredy Robot Vacuum Cleaner at Amazon / at Amazon UK

9. Monthly Book Subscription

RRP: From $9.99/£34.99 per month | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: Can cancel anytime | Region: US and UK 

If they're voracious bibliophiles, a monthly book subscription offers access to thousands of great reads, new and old. The concept is simple: Sign up, pick your box each month, and wait for its delivery.

Founded in 1926, Book of the Month is a long-standing national book club that's immortalized by swathes of bookworms. Every month, members can choose five hardcover books across genres. Similarly, The Willoughby Book Club offers a range of boxes for a variety of ages and interests, all available in 3-, 6-, or 12-month packages.  A great option if you're struggling with what to get a teenager for Christmas too. 

• View Monthly Subscription at Book of the Month / View Monthly Subscription at The Willoughby Book Club

10. Matching Family Pajamas

RRP: From $34.99/£80 | Delivery: 2-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 90-day return policy at Macy's / Not refundable at Not On The High Street | Region: US and UK 

Get your parents into the festive spirit by gifting them some matching Christmas pyjamas for the whole family. Hailing from Macy's, the Matching Bear Robe & Slipper Collection is a grizzly-inspired collection of robes, pyjamas, and slippers for the entire family (even the dog!) Available in two colors and sizes S-XXL.

If they want something more casual, bag them a personalized pair of PJs from Not On The High Street. This set is made from plush and breathable cotton, with statement white piping and ultra-luxe pearl buttons. 

• View Matching Bear Robe & Slipper Collection at Macy's / View Personalized Family Christmas Red Pajamas at Not On The High Street

11. Ice Cream Maker

RRP: $89.95/£200 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

A premier ice cream maker simplifies dessert-making from a science into a cinch. 

With a turn of the dial, the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker can whip up creations in under 20 minutes. This gadget features a wide bowl for adding ingredients, along with a sizable opening for mix-ins. If they want more batches, this one comes with two double-walled insulated freezer bowls and a recipe book.

Comparably, the Andrew James Ice Cream Maker can create gelato, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and, of course, ice cream with the touch of a button. Delicious treats aside, its detachable bowl is easy to clean and store wherever. Additionally, this machine comes with six recipes and a generous 2-year warranty.

• View Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker at Williams Sonoma / View Andrew James Ice Cream Maker at Amazon UK

12. Echo Show 8

RRP: $129.99/£99.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

The Echo Dot 8 can help mom and dad manage their day at a glance. With Alexa voice activation, this device enables users to make video calls, update lists, set reminders, control lights around the house, blast music, and watch TV shows—the best Christmas movies on Netflix included. Simply put, a device that does it all and pays the bills. Available in two colors.

• View Echo 8 at Amazon / at Amazon UK

13. OONI Fyra Portable Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven

RRP: $295/£250 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable?: 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

OONI's wood-fired pizza oven will immerse the entire family in a culinary adventure. Backed by an insulated, powder-coated steel shell, this appliance leverages a cordierite stone baking board for consistent heating, plus folding legs for easy transport and storage. Endless 'Zas await. 

• Visit OONI Fyra Portable Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven at Selfridges

14. Ring Alarm Kit

RRP: $329.99/£265.20 | Delivery: 2-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

A safe and secure home is a priceless gift and while The Ring Alarm Kit isn't something your parents would buy themselves, this intuitive security system with contact sensors, motion detectors, and other essentials will easily impress them. Thanks to the Ring app, parents can monitor each device and receive mobile alerts when the system is triggered—in real-time. A cost-free way of making this present even better? Set it up for them too! 

• View Ring Alarm 14-piece Kit at Amazon / View Ring Alarm 7-piece Starter Kit at Amazon UK

15. JBL Clip 4 Speaker

RRP: $79.95/£49.99 | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 1-year return policy at REI / 30-day return policy at Argos | Region: US and UK

Naturally, stressful days bring shower-time jam sessions—we bet mom and dad are belting notes when you're not around. Allow the JBL Clip 4 Speaker to elevate the experience. Available in three colors, this petite speaker delivers rich sound quality, and it's 100% waterproof. 

• View JBL Clip 4 Speaker at REI / at Argos UK

16. Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition

RRP: $189.99/£129.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Gift your parents an escape into literary worlds from their armchairs. Among the best eReaders, it touts the same perks we love in the OG Paperwhite but with 32 GB of storage, an enduring 10-week battery life, and an auto-adjusting front light. With Kindle Unlimited, they'll have access to over two million titles, thousands of audiobooks, and more. Ideal for seasoned and novice bookworms alike—pre-order yours now before its launch on October 27, 2021.

• View Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition at Amazon / at Amazon UK

Best Christmas gifts for new parents

17. BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light

RRP: $299.99/£261 | Delivery: 2-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Ideal for any space, this foldable crib is a travel-friendly must-have for new parents. It features a lightweight design, plush mattress, and breathable exterior mesh fabric, designed with your little one's comfort in mind. Additionally, this material provides air circulation throughout the crib and allows parents to monitor their sleeping. Plus, it includes a convenient carry bag for the essentials. Available in three colors.

• View BABYBJÖRN® Travel Crib Light at Pottery Barn Kids / at Amazon UK

18. Portable Changing Pad

RRP: $20.99/£6.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 1-year return policy at REI / 30-day return policy at Argos | Region: US and UK

A portable changing pad is a god-send as one of the best Christmas gifts for mom (or Christmas gifts for dad). For instance, the Lil Fox Baby Changing Pad is convenient for diaper disposal in public. It features a padded surface and a soft memory foam pillow, which cradles their head and secures it in place. It also includes an easy-to-use hook and loop fastener, plus plenty of pocket space.

If you're in the UK, opt for the Lekebaby Travel Mat, a lightweight option that folds up to fit in large-to-small changing bags. Moreover, it's a breeze to clean and comfortably padded for the baby—ideal for when they have to change a diaper against a hard surface.

• View Lil Fox Baby Changing Pad at Amazon / View Lekebaby Foldable Travel Changing Mat at Amazon UK

19. Mommy Power Stroller Hook

RRP: $39.99 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 45-day return policy | Region: US

Don't let the name fool you: The Mommy Power Stroller Hook is perfect for when both parents are on baby buggy duty. This power bank can hold up to 25 pounds, all while charging your mobile devices and electronics. Available in three colors.

• View Mommy Power Stroller Hook at Nordstrom for $39.99

20. Baby Hand And Footprint Velvet Hoop Wall Hanging

RRP: $56.71/£40 | Delivery: 2-10 day shipping | Refundable?: No | Region: US and UK

Presented in an ornate ribbon-tied box, this velvet wall hanging will be treasured for years to come. This keepsake captures the child's handprints and footprints, complemented by their name and date of birth. For quality assurance, it's detailed in wooden embroidery and a sturdy gray cord. 

• View Baby Hand And Footprint Velvet Hoop Wall Hanging at Not On The High Street

21. Personalized Memory Suitcase Keepsake Box Gift Set

RRP: $219.74/£155 | Delivery: 2-10 day shipping | Refundable?: No | Region: US and UK

Gift new parents the chance to preserve special moments with a memory suitcase. Designed to be filled with keepsakes of milestones, each case is made from bonded leather and lined with cotton. The box can be embossed with initials or a combination of 15 letters and numbers for a truly personal and thoughtful gift. 

• View Personalized Memory Suitcase Keepsake Box Gift Set at Not On The High Street / at Not On The High Street UK

22. Beaba Babycook Neo Baby Food Maker

RRP: $249.95/£160 | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 45-day return policy at Nordstrom / 30-day return policy at Amazon | Region: US and UK

Coined as the tesla of baby food makers, this countertop gadget steams, blends, and heats a variety of mini-meals. Albeit compact, it's a fully robust system that boasts thoughtful inclusions, like an all-new glass bowl and stainless steel basket. And by design, it preserves the taste, flavor, and nutritional benefits of each ingredient. Available in four colors.

• Beaba Babycook Neo Baby Food Maker at Nordstrom / at Amazon UK

23. A reliable diaper bag with ample space

RRP: $200/95/£130 | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Ordinary diaper bags are of a bygone era—score them something that doubles as a trendy accessory. Dagne Dover's Wade Diaper Tote ticks these boxes as it carries the essentials, without sacrificing style. One of the best tote bags for parents thanks to the fact that it is teeming with pockets, zippers, and extra components—from a mini changing mat and laptop carrier to shoe and dust bags. It even has two key leashes for small items. Available in four colors. Similarly, Hartland is a streamlined backpack with an insulated inner pod, which can hold up to four bottles and keep contents warm for three hours. It also includes a feeder pod, changing pod, and a changing mat.

• View Wade Diaper Tote at Dagne Dover / View PacaPod Hartland Baby Changing Bag at Amazon UK

25. Bunny Baby Hamper Gift Set

RRP: $120/£85 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Show them you care with this baby hamper gift set from Selfridges. Adorned in a light yellow box, this bundle boasts an adorable bunny theme. Your giftee will receive a Jellycat bashful bunny, a bunny-print cotton blanket, a bunny-shaped rattle, and a book titled "When I am big."

• View Selfridges Bunny Baby Hamper Gift Set at Selfridges / at Selfridges UK

26. Marpac Original Noise Machine

RRP: $44.95/£59.95 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

It's no secret that babies cry when they're feeling sleepy and fatigued. And when it comes to determining how to sleep better, a white noise machine is a tried-and-true solution. 

Case in point: The Marpac Original White Noise Machine masks background sounds, ideal for soothing restless babies. Parents can choose between two speeds for an adjustable tone and volume; and power on the device with an AC cord and switch. From there, they can select their desired sound by rotating the cap. 

• View Marpac Original Noise Machine at Amazon / at Amazon UK

27. Calm App Annual Membership

RRP: $69.99/£29.99 per year | Delivery: Immediate | Refundable?: Can cancel anytime| Region: US and UK

Everyone needs a good night's sleep and an annual subscription to Calm can help give someone just that. Compared to the best sleep apps, Calm features hundreds of meditation exercises, breathing techniques, and sleep stories—all designed to help you focus and relax. Since its conception, millions of members have experienced lower stress, less anxiety, and better sleep. A brilliant Christmas gift for parents whether they are new to the job or about to send their kids to college. 

• View Annual Membership at Calm

28. Uber Eats Gift Card

RRP: From $50/£15 | Delivery: 2-5 days by regular mail / Immediate by email | Refundable?: No| Region: US and UK

Parenting is demanding—lighten their load with a delicious, fresh meal, courtesy of Uber Eats. Takeout can make all the difference for parents, buying them extra time in a day with one less chore to complete. Once delivered, the card is redeemable on the Uber and Uber Eats app, and it won't ever expire. This idea is great if you're looking for cheap Christmas gifts that the recipient will actually use - everyone loves a free dinner. 

• View Uber Eats Gift Card at Amazon / at Uber UK

What do you buy older parents for Christmas?

It's difficult to shop for older parents because chances are, they'll claim to already have everything they need. 

The best bet is to gift them something they won't buy themselves, like experiences or high-end items. With experience gifts, they can choose and customize what they want, eliminating any possibility of disappointment. For variety and number of options, our favorites include Mr & Mrs Smith Boutique & Luxury Escapes, Airbnb, and Virgin Experience Days. Comparably, investment buys deliver unparalleled performance and are built to last.

Or, think about ways they can bond with the entire household. Unlike new parents, dirty diapers, baby formula, and strollers are no longer on the agenda. Their main priority is to keep the dynamic intact and amused. Think board games, puzzles, and even kitchen gadgets that'll get everyone involved in the action.