What's a good gift to get mum?
Let’s be honest—buying gifts for mums (especially those who say they “don’t need anything”) can be tricky. Whether it’s for Mother’s Day, her birthday, or just because she’s fabulous, I’ve rounded up affordable, charming, and slightly cheeky gift ideas that’ll make her smile—without emptying your bank account. Think less “scented candle (again?)” and more “well THAT’S adorable!”
Please note that this post contains affiliate links, that I have hand picked because I like them. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
1. Sassy Pin Badges
For the mum who’s always got something to say—how about a pin that declares, “Queen of Naps” or “Still Fabulous at 60+”? Tiny, wearable sass.
This is one I designed at Zazzle.
2. Personalized Mug with a Twist
Sure, mugs are everywhere. But a cartoon-style sketch of her face on a mug? Hilarious and heartwarming. (Bonus points if you get one made of her pet too!)
I found Etsy was quite a good place to find mugs like these.
3. A "Mum's Emergency Chocolate Stash" Tin
Fill it with her favourite bars. Wrap it with love. Hide it from Dad.
If you’re a bit more sentimental you could also put something like this in it.
4. Custom Tea Towels Featuring Her Favourite Recipe
Upload her famous shepherd’s pie or Victoria sponge recipe to a site that prints it on tea towels. Add a doodle of her (or you!) for extra points.
This one is from Zazzle – you could upload your own design here too.
5. Gardening Gloves with Attitude
Florals are fine, but gloves that say “This is how I dig it”? Iconic.
I found these gloves on Etsy, the seller personalizes them for you, and there is plenty of space to write something your mum would ‘dig!’
6. Handmade Soap That Looks Like Cake
It smells divine, it looks delicious, and it won’t ruin her diet. Win-win.
7. Cheeky Tote Bags
How about “Bag Full of Grown-Up Responsibilities” or “This Bag Contains Wine & Regret”? Great for market trips or book hauls.
8. Personalised Puzzle of a Family Photo
She’ll love piecing it together while sipping tea and reminding you she used to do your laundry.
9. Indoor Plant in a Quirky Pot
Bonus if the pot has a face. Triple bonus if you name the plant after her.
This is a second hand one I saw on Ebay.
10. Subscription to a Silly Monthly Treat Box
From cheese to snacks to “mystery tat,” there are loads of USA-based monthly boxes that make post fun again.
11. "Not Today, Kids" Do Not Disturb Door Sign
Perfect for baths, naps, or just avoiding people.
12. Tea Sampler with Weird Flavours
Lavender chai? Chocolate earl grey? She might raise an eyebrow but secretly love them.
13. A Book with a Strong Female Lead (Just Like Her)
Pair it with a note: “Because you’re the heroine of our family saga.”
14. Funny Apron for Kitchen Queens
“Master of the Roast” or “Whisk Me Away” — practical and punny.
15. DIY Coupon Book for Mums
Include vouchers for tea refills, a day out, washing her car, or one uninterrupted TV evening. It’s cute AND useful.
16. Personalized Jewelry
17. Handmade Bookmark & Her Next Favourite Book
Find a local maker who does adorable hand-drawn bookmarks and wrap one with a new novel she hasn’t read yet. (Ask around or check Goodreads for recommendations.)
18. Make your own Spa day
19. Wine or Tea Gift
20. Make and fill a photo album
Gift-giving doesn’t need to be expensive to be memorable. The best presents show that you know her, quirks and all. Whether it’s something that makes her laugh, something useful, or just a sweet reminder that she’s appreciated, the right gift can make her day.
