If you are someone who has been working hard to rid your home of clutter, you probably look at gift-giving through a completely different lens.
As I was making out my holiday list, I gave this a lot of thought. I would much rather give a consumable gift, an experience, a service, or the gift of my time rather than a physical item that someone will have to dust, or stuff away unused, taking up unnecessary room their home.
Before we get to my list of suggestions, let’s talk about what makes a gift clutter-free.
- It is consumable – it can be used/consumed until it is gone.
- It is gift of your time – to do something for someone.
- It is an experience that can be enjoyed. See my video about giving Experiences.
- As a general rule, it is not a “physical” item. But – please note this exception: if a physical item is something that you KNOW someone loves, then that is NOT clutter to her or him.
Now… on to the List!
Here are some Clutter-Free Gift Ideas you can give that won’t add to someone else’s clutter problem:
- Gas Card – With gas prices as high as they are, this gift would be a slam dunk for most anyone. From teenagers to grandparents on a fixed income, this is a gift sure to be used.
- Homemade baked goods – No clutter here! Baked goods only take up space in the cabinet until they are eaten, and I bet that won’t be long! My grandmother used to make a pan of cinnamon rolls for us for Christmas. I always looked forward to receiving that! If you bake bread, a fresh loaf paired with jelly or a specialty spread would make a nice gift. If you are a gardener, your canned items would be well received, too!
- Babysitting. I bet you know a couple or a parent that would love an afternoon or evening out to themselves. Print a Free Babysitting card – and if you’re feeling extra generous – add a restaurant gift card too.
- AAA Membership. Give a little peace of mind, and safety, to someone special.
- Spa or Salon Experience. There are plenty of choices: massage, facial, manicure, pedicure…. I would LOVE to receive any of these!
- Car Detailing: Getting into a spotless ride – and you do not have to pick up one single crumb – priceless! If you know a local person that provides this service – that’s double-points for you for helping out a neighbor in your community!
- Entertainment: Plenty of options here, too: Movie tickets, community theater, concerts, theme park, sporting events…..
- Round of Golf. For not-so-serious-golfers – Miniature Golf is always fun, too!
- Streaming Service Subscription: Give the gift of binge-watching! There are so many choices in addition to Netflix now: Apple +, Disney +, Prime, Paramount… and the list goes on.
- Subscription to Online Magazine or Newspaper: Choose an online subscription or opt for a delivered newspaper.
- Fishing or Hunting License.
- Hair Cut: Most ladies would love a trip to their favorite stylist where they did not have to pay.
- Family Bowling Night. Treat Mom, Dad and the kids to a fun family outing!
- Chocolate or Snack Gift Basket/Favorite Candy. No dusting needed for this item! It will be consumed in no-time!
- Classes or Lessons. Yoga, scuba, guitar, sports, music…..
- Charitable donation. Make a donation to a cause that you know he or she is passionate about.
- Museum or Zoo membership.
- Gourmet Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar. If you need a gift for someone who loves to cook – pick up a couple specialty bottles.
- Yard Service. Pay for someone to provide a service, or do it yourself.
- Specialty Coffees or Teas for the coffee and hot tea lovers on your list.
- Cards and Stamps. This may seem a bit old-fashioned, but cards and stamps really do come in handy. If you’re creative you could handmake the cards yourself, or purchase handcrafted cards online on Etsy.
Happy Gifting & Happy Holidays!
xo Angie
P.S. If you’re ready to declutter even more, sign up here to receive your free Decluttering Guide.
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