35 Best Gifts for Grandparents That Aren’t Just Slippers and Tea (Although We Love Those, Too)

Whether you see grandma and grandpa frequently or they’re more of a once-a-year, postcard or holiday visit presence, the warmth and love of an extended family can be, well, heartwarming. The best gifts for grandparents can be heartwarming, too… that is, if you can find the right one.

When looking for gifts for the people who have everything, another pair of slippers feels like a cop-out, and you’re pretty sure the last scented candle you gifted is still in the box. No pressure, but this year could be your chance to become the grandkid MVP—if you can steer clear of the usual suspects.

Luckily, we’ve rounded up options that are practical, thoughtful, and won’t scream, “This is a last-minute gift.” From tech gadgets they never knew they needed to nostalgic gifts that’ll make them misty-eyed (in a good way), this list has something to remind grandma and grandpa that you’re thinking of them.

Best gifts for grandparents, at a glance:

Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug, $130Mimio Biomimetic Cell Care, $100“How to Age Disgracefully” by Claire Pooley, $23Jiggy Personalized Puzzle, $50We’re Not Really Strangers Card Game, $35Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 10-Inch Enameled Cast Iron Heart Skillet, $40Sharper Image Home Luxury Towel Warmer, $163

Shop the best gifts for grandparents

Amazon Echo Dot — $23.00

Give the Amazon Echo Dot to your grandparents, andyou’re pretty much giving them a personal assistant. It works in conjunction with Alexa to offer the ability to set alarms, check the weather, make calls to other Amazon devices, and more hands-free. It also offers voice control over any smart home products like lights and speakers so grandma or grandpa needn’tleave the couch.

Mimio Biomimetic Cell Care — $100.00

A solid supplement is helpful, regardless of age. Mimio is a “biomimetic supplement” powered by biotech to support longevity, so you can have more healthy years together.  In each capsule, you’ll find spermidine and nicotinamide that aretouted to support the body’s functions, as well as oleoylethanolamide topromote digestive health and palmitoylethanolamide to help with inflammation and alleviate stress. Plus, you won’t have to swallow too many pills: just twocapsules per day are said to offer theabove effects.

Apple AirTag — $24.00

We have to admit: the Apple AirTag is a thing of beauty. For the person always misplacing their keys, wallet, purse, or what-have-you, the AirTag is a blessing that can significantly reduce tardiness and tears (from them or from you). They can also use an AirTag in their car to remember where you parked, in their suitcase to nervously check its progress throughout the airport, on a pet’s collar to track their location, and more, so there are plenty of ways to use and appreciate it.

Lafco “Absinthe Plum” Candle 6.5 oz — $50.00

There are candles, and then there are Lafco candles, which are basically little jars of luxury that keep your space smelling incredible. If you want to spark joy (lol), gift your grandparents the stunning “Absinthe Plum,” which glows with notes of black plum, mandarin zest, and mulled blackberry. It smells like a chic holiday party, minus all the annoying small talk.

Aura Digital Picture Frame 10.1” HD Display — $149.00

When your grandparents live far away, it’s important to stay connected when you’re apart. The Aura digital photo frame displays a stream of cherished memories they can look at any time. It also allows loved ones to remotely upload pictures via a free app. What’s more? You can preload family photos to the digital frame to make it extra special.

Bala Bangles — $55.00

For the grandparent looking to keep up with their fitness, consider these wearable weighted bangles that can add light resistance to a walk, crafting, or household chores. They come in increments from one to three pounds (and multiple colors) and are so chic, they might not want to take the weights off.

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 10-Inch Enameled Cast Iron Heart Skillet — $40.00

Sure, grandma might have her favorite cast-iron pan already, with years of seasoning baked into the finish. But that doesn’t mean she can’t love the kitsch and warmth of this heart-shaped skillet from Drew Barrymore’s Walmart collection for special occasions—like hosting you for breakfast.

Cadence Pillcase — $95.00

Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that are most functional for daily life and organization. And we can’t deny it; aging comes with more health maintenance requirements for each individual. For the grandparent who’s always laden down with various medications or vitamins, this stylish storage accessory might at least make a frustrating daily ritual look good on their countertop. Plus, the set is also stackable, magnetic, and extendable. (They can also swap out the tiles and use it to store toiletries or jewelry when traveling—so they’re not locked into using it for doctors’ orders.) The set comes in three sizes and 12 colors.

Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2 — $104.00

For the tea or coffee lover, consider giving them a tech upgrade with this swanky temperature-controlled mug that can keep their beverage at their exact preferred heat for up to 80 minutes. Even if they’re not so phone savvy, fear not: This writer bought this mug for her 86-year-old grandmother and just set the controls on her own app before letting it loose (and you can also forgo the app entirely). 

Evergreen 3-in-1 Garden Tote with Kneeler Mat — $28.00

If your grandparents practically live in their garden, this 3-in-1 Convertible Garden Tote from Evergreen is a game changer. It’s got everything they need—a sturdy kneeler mat for their knees, a bag for tools, and it completely unfolds into a flat mat for hauling away things like leaves or grass clippings. Basically, it’s their new favorite gardening sidekick that’ll save their back and knees without cramping their style.

Flamingo Estate Exfoliating Peppermint Soap Brick — $42.00

Once, I read a Tweet about how the ultimate buy for a “little treat” was a bar of soap: relatively inexpensive, with an optimal payoff in feel-good benefits. A decadent soap immediately elevates the shower experience. Flamingo Estate is a producer in Los Angeles focused on the combination of nature and luxury, so the richness of their soap is like none other. Plus, it has exfoliating poppy seeds, sea salt harvested from Big Sur, organic peppermint, and other garden ingredients.

FP Movement Hot Shot Onesie — $70.00

Whether grandma lives in overalls or hasn’t yet been converted to the glory of the onesie, this super soft FP Movement version is sure to provoke the epiphany that yes, you can basically wear pajamas in the daytime. Its slouchy oversized fit summons impressions of coolness rather than sloppiness, and it’s definitely layer-able for use in any season. She’d love it for exercise, lounging, and social engagements. Don’t be surprised if she even buys multiple from the whopping 15 available colors.

Give’r 4 Season Glove — $145.00

For the grandparent you can’t seem to keep from their various “projects,” these all-season leather gloves from Wyoming-based brand Give’r are made to withstand the toughest of elements. The all-natural wax coating, waterproof membrane, insulation, and reflective heat shield make these an absolute powerhouse. The craftsperson, gardener, or outdoorsy grandparent will especially value this pair.

Great Jones Breadwinner — $20.00

For the grandparent who loves to bake, add some pizzazz to their cookware by opting for color—like fuschia, cobalt, or deep green. This one-pound loaf pan has grooves in the bottom to make any banana bread (mmm) or what-have-you lift easily every time, plus it’s oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to boot. Up the ante and give them a matching cutting board, perfect for slicing all the bread they bake in style. 

Hoka All Gender Bondi Sneakers — $136.00

Whether they love to walk or just find it more difficult to be on their feet for longer stretches of time, the cloud-like Hoka sneakers are sure to be blissfully comfortable. And hey, grandfather sneakers are popular for a reason. These shoes have maximum cushioning, a streamlined upper, and are even lighter than you’d expect.

How to Age Disgracefully by Clare Pooley — $23.00

How to Age Disgracefully is pure, laugh-out-loud mischief full of firecracker personalities (and an escape car or two.) This post-retirement social club includes a kleptomaniac, a Banksy-style “knit bomber“ vandalizing statues across town, a woman deep in hiding, and more. Heartwarming, gratifying, and complex, the story effortlessly balances a good time with more complex questions of visibility, regrets, and the difficult art of making new friends once your routine has largely solidified; it’s the type of book that will amuse them and/or make them feel seen—at the very least, a delightful escape.

Jiggy Personalized Puzzle — $50.00

Y’all know the drill. When you see a “best gifts for grandparents” guide, you’re going to see some sort of personalized photo gift. You could upload a photo of your gaggle of great-grandchildren to show off, a final image they’ll be itching to see. Or you could digitize a nostalgic photo from their past that captures a fond memory to recreate. Or simply, you might know their taste in puzzles and use the personalization capability to recreate an awe-inspiring landscape or challenge. Either way, this under-$50 puzzle is a winner, and you can even customize the packaging.

Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Exfoliating Peel Spray — $36.00

IMO, grandparents are often left out of the skincare conversation, largely because of our occasional focus on aging and prevention. (Got wrinkles? Sorry, no longer needed. But that’s a rant for our beauty section.) Still, the right products can go a long way in making your grandmother or grandfather feel refreshed and comfortable, and they deserve to glow too. This oh-so-satisfying exfoliating peel is seriously magical—and it’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and formulated from 70 percent “antioxidant-rich organic botanical juices.”

Lenox Blue Bay Snack Bowls Set of 3 and Tray — $50.00

Meet the new star of happy hour. The avid host or hostess will adore the multi-functionality of this charming snack set with three patterned porcelain cups. Fill with bar nuts, chips and dip, coffees and teas, or even use the tray for candles.

Nest Pistachio & Wild Fig Reed Diffuser — $64.00

This year, swap the candle for something a little more sophisticated, like this Pistachio & Wild Fig Reed Diffuser from Nest. With notes of creamy pistachio and sweet fig, it’s like gifting them a breath of Mediterranean air—minus the airfare. Plus, it’s one of those fancy things they’d never buy for themselves but will absolutely enjoy every time they walk into the room.

Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker — $149.00

The Ninja Creami blew up the Internet when it was first released thanks to its many options of making ice cream, sorbet, protein treats, DIY mix-in shakes, and more. For the grandparent with the sweet tooth, the Ninja CREAMi hits the spot—and may be one of the few kitchen appliances they don’t already own. Bonus: it’s a total magnet for coaxing more family visits.

Oster Cordless Electric Wine Bottle Opener with Foil Cutter — $25.00

Sometimes, getting that nice red open from the cellar can be such a damn headache. This easy-to-use electric wine bottle opener splits the time and hassle in half without splitting the cork, too. The amateur sommelier, foodie, or mobility-challenged will love its convenience.

Pacas Women’s Compression Socks (Pack of 4) — $82.00

Compression socks are taking the world by storm, with many athletes and travelers even embracing the style for comfort and recovery. For grandparents who just want a lil’ extra relief from inflammation, joint pain, or just the hassle of long days and weeks, an attractive pair of compression socks can do a whole lotta good—like this temperature-regulating, odor-free set made from snuggly alpaca fiber. And if they’re not into knee-highs, we also love the cushioned Low Cut Socks ($40) which are pretty much the softest things they’ll ever slide their feet into. 

Portland Gear Haven Mules — $119.00

Clogs are a staple in any grandparents’ wardrobe, and it doesn’t get much better than this pair designed by a Nike alum for premium support. The dual-density EVA midsole is designed to feel like you’re “walking in a grassy field” in terms of mixing stability and softness. So while grandma and grandpa may have gotten slippers as a gift before, you bet they haven’t felt slippers like these.

Smeg 50’s Retro-Style 1.7-Liter Electric Kettle — $190.00

Smeg may have made a reputation for making funky, retro kitchenware cool (and a fave of AirBnbs everywhere), but the real test is whether it impresses grandma and grandpa—which it totally should. You can’t match its convenience and aesthetic. Auto shut-off and a 360-degree swivel base sure add to its charm, too.

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Wrap — $100.00

Perfect for weddings, outings, flights, the office, you name it—this chic cashmere wrap is a quality addition to any outfit. Available in 10 elegant colors, this shopper-favorite measures 81 by 25.5 inches, so is kind of the ideal size for adding warmth without 1) overwhelming or 2) being a glorified scarf. Plus, the 100 percent Mongolian cashmere is ethically produced.

Rosetta Stone (3 Months) — $48.00

Grandparents who want to brush up or learn a new language will appreciate the time-tested learning program Rosetta Stone. It offers tutorials in 25 languages including Arabic, Russian, Turkish, and Vietnamese, with a focus on vocabulary and casual conversations that you would have IRL. The desktop and mobile app also helps improve pronunciation—and speaking confidence—using TruAccent speech recognition technology. Rosetta Stone is $60 for three months, $126 annually, or $149 for a lifetime membership.

Ruggable Washable Pet Bed — $169.00

Got a grandparent whose pet is basically their favorite child? Treat them and their pup (or cat!) to this washable pet bed from Rugable, and win you some bonus points, too. With its stylish checkered pattern and machine-washable cover, it’s equal parts chic and practical—because you know they’re not wrestling a bed into the washer. They’ll appreciate how polished it looks, too. 

Sharper Image At Home Luxury Towel Warmer — $130.00

Hear us out: A towel warmer is the gift everyone wants without knowing. Especially in the frigid temps of winter, there’s nothing better than stepping out of the spray and wrapping yourself up in luxury. For that reason, a towel warmer (like this one with auto shut-off after 45 minutes) makes the ultimate “they’re going to be obsessed but wouldn’t have bought it for themselves” gift, which is what everyone really wants. For those grandparents who want to add to the spa-like ambiance, there’s a built-in oil diffuser they can use to add their preferred fragrance.

The Citizenry Organic Stonewashed Percale Sheet Set — $169.00

Getting the proper snooze and having enough energy is crucial for competitive games of Bridge or playing with infant great-grandchildren in the park. Especially for the grandparent who might be spending more and more time resting (or just binging Downton Abbey and quoting every line uttered by the iconic Maggie Smith, RIP), the right bedding can make a world of difference. Introduce them to this crisp yet soft percale sheet set from The Citizenry available in six colors.

Uncommon Goods Book Nook Reading Valet — $50.00

The bookworm grandparent will appreciate this sleek wooden organizer for their bedside table or side table for storing their current read, hot beverage, and the glasses they can otherwise never find. The bottom is scratch-proof—so no fear for the antiques—and it’s portable enough to tote from room to room, too.

UnHide Lil’ Marsh Blanket — $49.00

Crafted from ultra-plush vegan fur, this indulgent blanket is frankly blissful, with a chinchilla-esque outer side and velvety inner. It’s machine washable, easy to cart around (so would make a fab plane blanket, for example), and comes in nine colorways and two additional sizes. Shop for the grandparent who’s “always cold” (despite the thermostat being set to 85 degrees Fahrenhei) or anyone who wants a little coziness.

Venus et Fleur Le Mini Square Roses — $82.00

Technically, these everlasting roses stay vibrant for up to a year after purchase; in our experience, they’ve lasted several. (This writer’s had her own set since 2022 and has yet to see a difference in flower quality.) This rose arrangement is meticulously preserved to *spark joy* for any fresh flower lover. Don’t mistake these for a dried bouquet, no. These are much more realistic and sure to thrill grandma or grandpa to pieces every time they walk past (and are reminded of you.)

Veuve Clicquot Book — $105.00

For the champagne lover, a bottle of bubbly can, of course, go a long way. But you could also consider gifting an attractive coffee table book that goes through the history of the Reims-based brand with seriously stunning imagery. Cue, “It’s not champagne unless it comes from the Champagne region in France.”

We’re Not Really Strangers Card Game — $35.00

Oftentimes, the conversation that comes up when chatting with or about our grandparents is how we each wish we’d asked each other more questions. Memory, perception, and connection can be so very special, and this easy but intimate card pack has a lovely mix of thoughtful prompts and starters without feeling like homework. It’s genuinely fun to play—during dates, dinners, get-to-know-yous, and more IRL scenarios—and would be a hit among grandparents looking to connect further with the youngsters.