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If you’re lucky, you love and get along with your mother-in-law as you do with your own family. But, for a lot of people, that just isn’t the case. Yet whether you love her, hate her or are trying to get in her good graces, there will inevitably come a time when you’ll need to buy her a gift.
The better your relationship is, the easier it is to know what she likes. But if you’re not that lucky, picking a gift for your mom-in-law can be tricky. How many scented candles, hand creams and birthstone necklaces can any mother have?
Need some ideas for her birthday, Mother’s Day, Christmas or any other holidays?
Here are 36 great gifts for your mother-in-law that she’ll actually like and will score some serious brownie points.
Editor Favorites:
1. Of The Earth Hurricane
Made with real leaves preserved in enamel, these hurricane lanterns will bring an earthy yet elegant touch to her home decor. Each lantern also comes with a handle so they can be hung outside or carried wherever a little extra light is needed.
We think you’ll get glowing reviews for this pick!
2. Mejuri Diamonds Open Ring
We love this elegant little ring that can be stacked with other pieces or simply worn on its own. Available in 14K white or yellow gold, it features two ethically sourced diamonds for a little extra sparkle.
If you want to impress your MIL with jewelry, this may be just what you’re looking for.
3. Hooga Book Light
If your mother-in-law loves nothing better than curling up in bed with a good book, she’ll appreciate this convenient little book light. Its soft amber glow is 99.94 % free of blue light that could disturb her sleep pattern. And it’s also light and portable so she can take it wherever she goes.
Now that’s what we call book smart!
4. Reversible Wide Brim Sun Hat
She’s serious about sun protection, but that doesn’t mean she can’t be stylish at the same time. We love that this cute hat is reversible, comes with a built-in drawstring and has a 50+ UPF rating.
It’s also available in 6 reversible colors so she can still have fun in the sun!
5. Radiance In Bloom Bowl
She has a slightly bohemian edge, and she’s not afraid of color. She’ll love this hand-painted wooden bowl that’s as beautiful as it is functional. She can display it like art or fill it up with fruits. This is a keepsake!
6. Hanging Butterfly Oasis
If your MIL is a nature lover, she’ll adore this butterfly feeder to attract these precious pollinators to her garden. All she has to do is fill it with the included mix, add water and she and her yard will be all aflutter. Sweet!
7. Arm Protecting Garden Gloves
If your mother-in-law has a green thumb, she’ll appreciate these garden gloves that are as pretty as they are functional. They cinch at the mid-forearm to protect her from scratchy plants, bugs and the sun. And they’re also reinforced with faux leather.
And because gardening is a dirty job, they’re also machine washable—a great gift to help your relationship grow.
8. Rose Bouquet Earrings
Sure, you could go with a classic pair of hoops. But these gorgeous pink quartz earrings will let her know you went the extra mile to pick out something truly special. We predict things will be looking pretty rosy after this gift.
9. Coastal Serving Board
Does she love the beach as much as she does entertaining? Made with a unique resin technique, this serving board will make a stunning addition to her serveware for her next luxe dinner party. And what could be better than a gift that reminds her of her happy place?
10. Solar Tea Lights
These hand-blown glass tea lights are not only gorgeous but also environmentally friendly. A solar panel in the cap charges the LED light bulb inside when left in the sun. When it gets dark, the lights come on automatically.
They are the perfect gift to be displayed on the terrace or placed anywhere in her garden. It’s like catching a little bit of sunshine for your MIL.
11. Bali Beauty Kimono
If she’s a lady who likes to lounge, help her do it in style. This lively mosaic pattern will brighten up her world with a burst of color and help her to look chic as ever when she’s relaxing at the beach or poolside.
12. Skyline Lux Tote
While buying a purse for someone can be a challenge, the Skyline Lux Tote from Vessel is the exception.
The synthetic leather will last for a lifetime. She can throw in everything she needs in the tote, from her wallet and keys to an iPad, book, water bottle, makeup or anything else she wants to haul around. It makes the perfect personal item for any traveling she might have coming up… like visiting you!
Related: The 21 Best Mother’s Day Gifts [Show Your Mom Some Love]
13. Bala Bangles Adjustable Weights
If your MIL is into fitness or getting into shape, these adjustable wrist and ankle weights from Amazon are a great way to add resistance to workouts or even everyday activities. We also love that they come in an array of colors like pink, blue, charcoal and even rainbow.
14. Wood Coasters
If your MIL always seems to be concerned about water stains on her tables, give her something extra beautiful to put under those sweating drink glasses. These gorgeous coasters are handmade from natural wood and resin, which gives each one a unique pattern.
Who says you can’t be anal and have good taste? Throw in a personalized cutting board so she can serve some charcuterie, and you will be her new favorite.
15. Core Products Cervical Pillow
If your mother-in-law suffers from neck and shoulder pain, this posture correcting pillow will help restore the correct curvature of her spine and help to alleviate pain. And if it makes her feel better, who knows, it could bring you some relief too!
16. Personalized Throw Blanket
Does your MIL get cold at the drop of a hat? This throw blanket at Etsy is super soft and can be personalized with her initials or a special message. Could help keep your relationship nice and warm too. Being the favorite daughter-in-law can be tricky!
17. Rotating Makeup Organizer
If she’s a beauty fanatic, she’ll fall in love with this rotating organizer that will class up her counter and help her find her makeup and skincare products so much faster. Pretty and functional.
18. Bamboo Cooling Comforter
If your mother-in-law runs hot at night, this breathable bamboo comforter will help to reduce humidity and help her to avoid overheating while she sleeps—also a great alternative for anyone that suffers from feather allergies.
She may also be a lot more tolerable after a good night’s rest.
19. Actual Handwriting Bracelet
This delicate little bracelet brings a truly personal touch. Just send a sample of handwriting, and the maker will reproduce it in silver, gold or white gold. It could be her own name and signature or even one of her children’s or grandchildren’s.
Either way, we think she’ll be touched.
20. Jewelry Travel Case
She’s a woman on the go, and she doesn’t go anywhere without her jewelry. Help her to keep it organized with this stylish leather case that has room for her earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets.
It also comes in a nice array of colors, with a beautiful gift box and can even be personalized. An all round great gift that will help to stay glamorous.
21. Vinglacé Wine Chiller
Does she appreciate a good glass of wine? This high-quality wine insulator will ensure that her rosé stays cool all day. Plus, she may also feel a little more chill after a few glasses.
22. Revlon One-Step Volumizer
This hair dryer and styling tool in one gets rave reviews for how quickly it works. It also helps to volumize the hair while at the same time reducing frizz. She’ll feel beautiful without having to go to the hairdresser.
Related: Our 11 Favorite Hot Air Brushes for Salon Styled Hair
23. Lark & Ro Jersey Wrap Dress
The thing about wrap dresses is that they look good on any figure. This favorite from Lark & Ro is especially great for ladies with extra curves. Simple and yet polished – the perfect fashion duo!
24. Frantoio Galantino Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If she’s a foodie, it’s hard to go wrong with extra virgin olive oil – especially if it comes in a pretty bottle. This premium olive oil from Frantoio Galantino not only has magnificent flavor but also pleases the eye with a handmade ceramic container. A feast for all the senses. Spice it up with a gift basket full of her favorite cooking spices to make it a more personalized gift.
25. Alpcour Folding Stadium Seat
Whether she’s a fan of professional sports or just gets a kick out of going to her grandkid’s games, this stadium chair will ensure she’s a lot more comfortable in the bleachers. It also has shoulder straps for easy carrying, various pockets and is also waterproof. Hip,hip hurrah!
26. Silicone Baking Tray Dividers
If your MIL is a wiz in the kitchen, she’ll find these silicone baking tray dividers super handy. They’ll allow her to bake multiple foods in the same pan and make cleanup a breeze. Which also helps if you volunteer to do the dishes for her.
27. JBL Wireless Earbuds
Whether she’s into podcasts or likes to rock out on the exercise bike, these earbuds will keep her tuned in wherever she goes. They have great sound quality but are also a lot more economical than some of the bigger brands. And they also come with three different-sized ear tips to ensure the perfect fit. An all-around great buy and great gift for your MIL.
28. National Parks and Federal Recreation Land Pass
If she’s a lover of the great outdoors, this park’s pass will give your mother-in-law access to more than 2000 federal recreation sites. So help her get out there and enjoy America the beautiful while she’s hiking, bird watching or just out for a picnic. You may both breathe easier.
29. Foreo Facial Brush
This high-tech self-care facial brush not only deep cleans but also improves microcirculation to help skin maintain that youthful glow. Once she’s finished cleaning, your MIL can turn it over and use the low-frequency setting to give herself a relaxing facial massage that also has a firming effect over time.
She may just put on a happier face whenever she sees you!
30. Natori Shangri-La Robe
Yes, a robe may seem like a standard gift for your MIL, but not when it’s this pretty and comfortable. Silky and sleek, this quality wrap comes in lots of different colors and looks great on just about any figure. Plus, it is a lot easier than buying her a pajama set. It’s like a little piece of bathrobe nirvana.
31. Zach & Zoe Lavender Honey
Sweeten up your relationship with your MIL with this premium raw honey. Not only does it taste divine, but it also hasn’t been pasteurized. And that means that it maintains all those healthy vitamins, minerals and enzymes that many conventional jars of honey don’t have these days.
32. Unika Watch
The Danish watch company, Nordgreen, is the perfect place to grab a gift for your mother-in-law that will never go out of style. You really can’t go wrong with any of their minimalist watches, but the Unika Watch is our favorite. It’s fully customizable with 4 different dial colors, 8 different band options and two different sizes, either 28mm or 32mm, to create the perfect watch for any woman in your life.
33. DIFF Sunglasses
Could your MIL use an upgrade in the sunglasses department? A new pair of DIFF Sunglasses will be stylish and give back to a person in need. With their partnership with Sightsavers, every pair of sunglasses purchased helps a person with the gift of sight. So far, they have helped over 2.7 million people with eye exams, medicines, surgeries and more.
You can give your mother-in-law a gift that gives others the power of vision, which is pretty cool. With six different frame shape options and 15 color options, you can definitely find a pair to fit her style.
34. Mother of Pearl Picture Frame
Mother of pearl tiles adds elegance and timeless style to this Mother of Pearl Picture Frame. Sized to fit a 3″ x 3″ photo, this frame is easy to coordinate with all types of decor, so she can put it beside her bed or display it on a mantel.
If you really want to make it extra special with some good-feeling family vibes, include a picture of her grandkids. Because even if she’s not your biggest fan, she’s probably theirs and family photos always do the trick.
35. Winc Wine
If your mother-in-law needs a few glasses of wine to warm up to people, a Winc wine subscription is one gift idea she’s sure to love. For $39 per month, she can enjoy three different bottles of wine based on her own unique preferences and tastes with this wine subscription box.
Don’t want to commit to giving a monthly gift? Winc also sells gift cards so that you can give a gift for just one month or two. You can gift her a nice pair of wine glasses for Christmas, and maybe she’ll share the next bottle with you!
36. Organic Chai Gift Set
If your mother-in-law loves tea, this chai gift set will give her a taste of the exotic. Made with hand-ground, organic spices, these concentrated blends offer an authentic taste of India and come with a small silver spoon and pretty silk gift bag.
She’ll appreciate you more with every sip!
Mothers-in-law can be hard to buy for, so remember this rule of thumb when buying her a gift:
Only give gifts that you yourself would be excited to receive. That means you can skip the cheesy coffee mug, lavender candle or cookbook and opt for something she will love for years to come. A thoughtful gift doesn’t have to be expensive, and a lot of the gifts on this list can double as Christmas gifts or other holiday gifts in the future.
And while the relationship with your mother-in-law may take years to cultivate, keep at it. A perfect birthday gift here and a unique holiday gift there may be all it takes to win her over and finally feel accepted into the family. We hope these mother-in-law gift ideas make shopping a little easier!
You might also be interested in: More ChatterSource Gift Guides
The 36 Best Mother in Law Gifts:
- Of The Earth Hurricane
- Mejuri Diamonds Open Ring
- Hooga Book Light
- Reversible Wide Brim Sun Hat
- Radiance In Bloom Bowl
- Hanging Butterfly Oasis
- Arm Protecting Garden Gloves
- Rose Bouquet Earrings
- Coastal Serving Board
- Solar Tea Lights
- Bali Beauty Kimono
- Skyline Lux Tote
- Bala Bangles Adjustable Weights
- Wood Coasters
- Core Products Cervical Pillow
- Personalized Throw Blanket
- Rotating Makeup Organizer
- Bamboo Cooling Comforter
- Actual Handwriting Bracelet
- Jewelry Travel Case
- Vinglacé Wine Chiller
- Revlon One-Step Volumizer
- Lark & Ro Jersey Wrap Dress
- Frantoio Galantino Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Alpcour Folding Stadium Seat
- Silicone Baking Tray Dividers
- JBL Wireless Earbuds
- National Parks and Federal Recreation Land Pass
- Foreo Facial Brush
- Natori Shangri-La Robe
- Zach & Zoe Lavender Honey
- Unika Watch
- DIFF Sunglasses
- Mother of Pearl Picture Frame
- Winc Wine
- Organic Chai Gift Set
Sherry De Alba
view postSherry De Alba
Sherry is a freelance writer who worked as an actor before transitioning to an award-winner career in advertising. During a vacation to Mexico, she fell in love and never left. Sherry (aka Cherita) now spends her time bouncing between the US and Mexico writing, running, cooking, meditating and exploring lots of cool stuff on the other side of the wall.
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