The best housewarming gifts are essential for the first visit to a loved one’s new home. Whether they’re a first-time buyer, are moving in with a partner or have fled the city for the countryside, it’s always a milestone worth marking.
It could be as simple as a bottle of bubbly and a bunch of flowers, or as special as a new coffee machine or glossy coffee table book. The criteria for a good housewarming gift is simple: it needs to spark joy while feeling personalised to the giftee.
It might be something useful – sure, a bottle of gin is great, but a good saucepan lives beyond one housewarming party. Or maybe it’s tailored to their interests: audiophiles might love a new radio, foodies will be delighted with the latest viral cookbook and art-lovers will delight in a quirky wall print. When it comes to practical presents (the type a parent or grandparent might gift), think a cordless vacuum, a knife set or even a toaster (a Smeg style will really impress).
Some gifts never miss the mark – I defy anyone to be disappointed with a luxury hand wash, cosy candle or house plant. If it’s an extra big milestone, extravagant gifts such as an air fryer, a piece of furniture or just about anything from Le Creuset will be cherished for years.
But you needn’t spend a fortune on a housewarming gift. Brands such as Aesop, Cowshed and Addison Ross have sub-£50 ideas that still feel special, while M&S, Dunelm and Oliver Bonas are go-tos for homeware that looks far more luxe than the price tags suggest.
Cocktail bottles, spirits and flowers are all classic gifts for good reason. Plus, they’re easy to secure when in a last-minute rush (it happens to the best of us). Bloom & Wild deliver beautiful bouquets, while bottles from trendy brands such as New Theory and Shop Cuvee will take pride of place on their wine rack.
How I tested
I’ve done the hard graft for you and rounded up the very best housewarming gifts. I moved house late last year, so I’m qualified in what makes the perfect gift.
- Quality: I looked for quality craftsmanship and manufacturing, as well as unique design details and a refined finish on each product. I didn’t want gifts that would break within a month, but only products that will serve the recipient for years to come in their new home.
- Suitability: I also considered each item on this list in terms of how suitable it would be for the recipient, tailoring to different tastes and purposes. There’s options for home cooks, art-lovers, bookworms, plant parents, design enthusiasts and plenty more.
- Price range: I looked for products that were excellent value, with options for both ends of the budget. There’s both blowout gifts for a daughter or son, affordable gifts for a friend and mid-range options for an extra special milestone. Considering all funds, there’s everything from bedding and artwork to books and wine. Trust me, you’ll be the best guest going.
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
The Independent’s dedicated shopping section, IndyBest is committed to providing unbiased reviews and expert advice. Daisy Lester is senior shopping writer at IndyBest and has years of experience in product testing. She has a keen eye for the latest trends, making her a reliable source of knowledge when it comes to finding ideal gifts to celebrate a new home.
The best housewarming gifts for 2025 are:
- Best overall – Patch Plants Chinese money plant: £15, Patchplants.com
- Best budget buy – Chin Chin Vinho Verde: £12.90, Selfridges.com
- Best coffee table book – Sicily Honor, published by Assouline: £85, Selfridges.com
- Best luxury gift – Nespresso vertuo creatista coffee machine, brushed stainless steel: £541.62, Amazon.co.uk
