A professional home organizer's list of Christmas gifts that won’t create clutter

I love giving and receiving gifts, but I must admit that bringing more things into the home around Christmas causes a little stress for me. We do not need anything, and while I realize gifting isn’t all about needs, I don’t enjoy having a lot of things 'just because.'

We have previously shared how to decorate for Christmas without clutter, but what about gifting in a more minimalist and intentional way?

Fortunately, there are so many gifts that will not cause clutter. Keep reading and see what you and your loved ones would be thrilled to receive.

Christmas gifts that won't create clutter

From flowers and haircuts to tickets to a play, here are my favorite clutter-free gift ideas.

Activities

Activities are one of my favorite types of gifts to give because I can decide if I want to treat the recipient or if I want to join them for the fun! There is an activity for every personality type, so think about the recipient’s interests and what the person would love to do but may not purchase for herself.

• Amusement or water park
• Aquarium or zoo membership or day pass
• Concert, play, or sporting event tickets
• Fishing or hunting trip
• Indoor skydiving
• Lessons for a new skill: surfing, golf, pottery, etc.
• Vacation rental

Self care

So many of us do not prioritize self-care in our daily lives. Christmas is the perfect time to treat someone to a self-care gift to nudge them to focus on themselves for a bit.

• Color consultation
• Haircut at a fancy salon
• Manicure or pedicure certificate
• Restaurant certificate
• Spa day
• Stylist consultation

Home

In busy seasons of life, we tend to neglect home tasks, from cleaning to DIY projects. Help the new mom, healing patient, or older loved one immensely by giving them a little extra help around the house.

• Gardening instruction
• House cleaning service
• Home improvement project
• Lawn service
• Professional home organizing package

Technology

Everyone in my family either loves tech or appreciates aspects of it. Consider your loved one’s comfort level with technology and find something fun that she’ll love!

• App Store gift card
• Celebrity cameo
• Movie download
• Movie theater gift card
• Music subscription
• Photography session

Donations

For the person who 'has it all,' a donation to a meaningful charity will be the perfect gift. What are her interests? Is she incredibly passionate about children, animals, the arts, etc.? 

The recipient will appreciate that you took the time to think about her and contributed to making a difference in the community.

• Adopt an animal
• Buy a star
• Buy a brick or bench in the local community or somewhere unique to the recipient
• Donation to a charity in her honor
• Museum membership

Consumables

This category includes anything that will be used or consumed. I love this category for people I do not know as well personally, such as delivery drivers, teachers, etc., but it’s also great for buying something extra special for loved ones. 

For example, my husband loves to smoke meat, so my parents bought him an expensive piece of high-quality meat last Christmas. It was so thoughtful; he enjoyed cooking it, and I certainly enjoyed eating it!

• Art supplies
• Bath products
• Flowers
• Food
• Hobby supplies

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FAQs

Before you load up on 'stuff' this year, consider what items you can purchase that will not create clutter for the recipients. You will be able to find something for every interest!