Finding affordable gifts for mom while you’re on a tight budget doesn’t have to be difficult. Check out this curated list of products your mom is sure to love, all for under $50!
These affordable gifts ideas for mom contain everything from meaningful gifts to useful items and unique finds! There’s something for everyone!
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Finding the perfect gift for moms can be a little difficult sometimes, especially when you don’t have a large budget. Many of us wish we had large sums of money that we could use to buy extravagant gifts for the special people in our life, that may not always be the case during every season of life.
Obviously, homemade gifts can be wonderful ideas! But if you aren’t crafty or don’t have a lot of extra time on your hands, these budget-friendly gifts for mom are great options as well.
I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite budget-friendly ideas that you can use if you’re shopping for the mothers in your life.
These are all items that I myself either own, have given as gifts, or items I’d love to receive! There’s sure to be something for everyone, and they all check in at under $35.
And if you’re a mom, feel free to forward this article to those who will be shopping for you. Or conveniently leave it pulled up on the family computer. Trust me, they’ll be glad to have some ideas of what to get for you! 🙂
For The Mom Who Could Use a Little Pampering:
Let’s be honest–what mom couldn’t use a little pampering? These are some fun gifts of items that moms might not normally buy for themselves, but that can help them pamper themselves just a little. 🙂
Home Chef Meal Box
Most moms would LOVE a night or two off from planning and shopping for dinner. Home Chef boxes bring all of the ingredients and recipes to your door, so all you have to do is follow the easy instructions. You can even give mom the night off all together by volunteering to do the cooking! 🙂
I have personally used these boxes and was impressed by the ease of the meals and how tasty they were! You can get an amazing deal on Home Chef right now by getting $35 OFF your first box! Sign up here to gift a box!
Camille Beckman Glycerine Hand Therapy
It may be simple, but this stuff is the jam.
I’m a nurse. Working in a hospital means that I wash my hands approximately 2 million times a day. Okay, maybe not quite that much, but A LOT. That can be hard on your skin. I’ve used many hand creams over the years and this one is hands down (haha!) my favorite.
This hand cream is perfect, because it keeps hands moisturized without feeling greasy. A little bit goes a long way, and one jar lasts me at least a few months.
It comes in several scents, but I prefer the unscented vitamin E variety. You could always combine this with some fun new nail polish or a gift certificate for a manicure!
FabFitFun Box
FabFitFun boxes are one of those great values that many women would love, but I find that they may not always buy for themselves.
These are seasonal boxes filled with full-size products (everything from decor to accessories to beauty products) valued at over $200, yet the box is a fraction of that price. Better yet, you can sign up here and use code WINTERFUN to get 20% off the box, so it’s a fabulous deal!
Giving a subscription as a gift? Print a free lovely holiday gift note to tell the recipient what’s headed their way! Grab the free printable here.
Little Seed Farm Products
I love using Little Seed Farm products –they just work so well.
I use their charcoal soap for my face, their milk soap for the shower (this is also a great soap for babies because it’s so gentle!), their elasticity serum for my face, and their botanical butter for face, elbows, knees, etc.
The botanical butter is simply dreamy…it just melts into your skin and smells delightful, with a hint of grapefruit. Pair the botanical butter with the Little Seed Farm organic sugar scrub or some goat’s milk soap, and you’ll have a happy mama.
Allure Beauty Box
The Allure beauty box is a great option for moms who like to play around with beauty products, such as makeup or skincare products. Right now, they have a deal where you can sign up here and get $5 off your first box, which makes it a really inexpensive gift idea!
Wax and Wool Soy Candle
These small-batch, hand-poured soy candles have been on my wish list for a while now. I love soy candles because they burn cleaner and last longer. I love the pretty amber jars that these are poured in, and they have several scents to choose from!
Candles can completely change the vibe in a room, and one of these special candles would be a lovely gift for the special mom in your life!
For The Mom Who Likes to Read:
Audible Gift Membership
I know many moms who love to read but struggle to find time to do so. In that case, an Audible membership could be a wonderful gift!
This would allow moms to listen to audiobooks while they’re folding laundry, driving kids to and from school or activities, cooking dinner, etc.
Kindle Unlimited Membership
Did you know that you don’t have to have a Kindle to read Kindle books? There is a Kindle App that you can download on your smart phone that allows you to read Kindle books on your phone!
Having a Kindle Unlimited membership would allow mom to choose which books she wants to read and have them at her fingertips whenever she has a few spare moments–such as in the car line at school pickup, in waiting rooms of doctors’ offices, etc.
Books Moms Love
If you want specific recommendations for books that moms would love, I’m including some of my personal favorites below.
The Mother Letters
This book is a series of letters written by other moms, sent to a mom who was struggling with being overwhelmed by caring for her young children. It’s uniquely encouraging and heartfelt, making it a lovely gift.
Hope Unfolding: Grace-Filled Truth for the Momma’s Heart
This book was given to me during a season where I was still adjusting to having three babies ages three and under. Life felt super chaotic, and no matter how hard I tried, I often felt like it just wasn’t enough. The book is filled with encouragement and wisdom from a mom who has also been in the trenches. discussing how God is writing our story.
Surprised by Motherhood: Everything I Never Expected About Being a Mom
Lisa-Jo Baker is a wildly encouraging mom and writer who finds beauty in the mundane and difficult times of life. Reading Lisa-Jo’s writings make you feel like you’re having coffee with a good friend. Many aspects of motherhood surprised me, and I love Lisa-Jo’s approach to learning from our little ones and allowing God to shape us through them. It truly is one of my favorite books of all time.
The Fringe Hours
I mentioned this book when I wrote about self-care for moms, because I personally think it’s so important for moms to find time for their passions and gifts outside of child-rearing. Raising our children is a special privilege and responsibility, and one that we hopefully find great joy in. But it’s also important to take care of ourselves well, and for many of us, that includes spending time on hobbies or pursuits that renew and rejuvenate us.
A sweet accompaniment to this book would be a gift certificate to the mother’s favorite craft store or coffee shop, or an IOU for babysitting, or whatever it is that would help her to take some time for herself.
Introverted Mom
If you know an introverted mom (or are one yourself!), this book is a must read. It is so encouraging to consider our uniqueness and how being introverted can be a gift to the world, not a liability. I loved it!
The Middle Matters
Another lovely work by Lisa-Jo Baker, this book is a series of essays that make you nod your head in agreement, as she tells stories that will make you laugh and cry. Perfect for any mom who understands that motherhood is both messy and amazing.
For The Mom Who Likes Handmade Gifts:
Personalized Monogrammed Water Bottle
I love my personalized water bottle! It’s a really cute spin on something practical that I use everyday.
There are different designs to choose from to create a customized look, just for the special mom in your life! I mean really, what mom wouldn’t love a cute water bottle to tote along to work, the park, the gym or wherever life takes her each day?
Personalized Heart Distance Map
If the mother you’re purchasing for lives in another city, this is such a sweet gift. I love how the artist uses vintage maps when possible to create a piece of art that is a great reminder that love is not bound by distance.
It also makes a great gift for a grandmother!
Seed & Soil Jewelry
I love the beautiful, symbolic jewelry created by this shop, using pressed botanicals. I have a thyme necklace from this shop and it’s currently my favorite piece of jewelry. I think their creations are so fun and unique!
It’s fun to give a gift that is not only pretty, but also meaningful, and this jewelry fits the bill! It comes in pretty packaging, too!
Jewelry from Nest Pretty Things
I love the unique pieces found in this shop, and how they can be both fun and classy at the same time. I purchased this simple necklace from Nest Pretty Things because I loved the pale jade beads and the simple gold chain. I’ve been so pleased with its versatility and the quality of the piece. (Note: Not everything in this shop is less than $50, but A LOT of super cute items are!)
I love these dainty leather cuff bracelets and this little gold paddle necklace and this lariat necklace and…ok, I just like it all! 🙂
The jewelry is packaged in an adorable little gift box, so it’s ready for gifting!
For the Mom Who Likes to Cook:
Microplane Grater and Essentials of Italian Cooking
This is a fun combination gift for someone who enjoys spending time in the kitchen. Marcella Hazan’s Essentials of Italian Cooking is basically the “bible” of Italian cooking. When I first received my copy, I read the entire cookbook from cover to cover. Pairing it with a Microplane grater is a fun addition!
The Perfect Scoop and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams at Home
Several years ago, I was given a gift card to Williams-Sonoma (a store where I want everything! Haha!). I decided to use the gift card toward the ice cream maker attachment for my Kitchen Aid stand mixer (which would also be a great gift, if your budget allows!), and I have never once regretted that decision.
Pair one (or both!) of these books with a self-defrosting ice cream scoop for a fun gift!
In The Perfect Scoop, David Lebovitz has recipes for both custard-style and Philly-style ice creams, classic flavors and in some fun, unusual flavors.
The first time I had ice cream at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams was at one of their original locations in Columbus, Ohio several years ago, though now we have some locations here in Nashville! I was immediately hooked. Riesling poached pear, pistachio & honey, brambleberry crisp…each one was simply perfect. Just a few days later, I purchased Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams at Home so that I could make some of the delicious goodies with my ice cream maker.
Creme Brulee Torch and Ramekin Set
Most people think of creme brulee as a really fancy dessert that you can only get in restaurants. In reality, it’s a very easy dessert to make at home. It’s such a simple dessert but has a big impact on guests, especially when they see you whip out your kitchen torch. Haha!
Truly, though, this is one of those sets that I wasn’t sure was worth buying at first. But I have used this set more times than I can count. I always use the creme brulee recipe from this book by Ina Garten, which is super easy and amazingly delicious.
If you know a mom who enjoys cooking, the ramekin and torch set would be such a fun gift. You can even pair it with Ina’s cookbook!
Gifts for the Social Justice-Minded Mom
Preemptive Love Coalition Shop
Preemptive Love Coalition works tirelessly to empower refugees and help them rebuild their lives. You can purchase high-quality products made by the refugees, such as soaps, candles, textiles, etc. Not only do these products make beautiful gifts, but they also serve to help others around the world.
Check out everything they have to offer here!
Vi Bella Jewelry
Vi Bella Jewelry employs and empowers artisans around the world to make their lovely jewelry, bags, and other accessories. In addition to providing income for the artisans, Vi Bella also provides school sponsorships and after-school programs for the children of artisans in Haiti and Mexico, respectively.
I have a lovely necklace from Vi Bella that I have worn countless times. They have many products at different price points, so you’re sure to find something that your mom will both love and feel good about using!
Compassion International Gift Catalog
Most people are familiar with Compassion International’s child sponsorship program, but not as many know about their gift catalog.
You can purchase a variety of “gifts,” including different types of medical care, playground equipment, newborn items, mosquito nets, garden seeds, water wells, and so on. These gifts are priced very reasonably and there are items in varying price ranges, so you’re sure to find something that fits your budget.
We all know a mom who already has everything and realistically doesn’t need any more “stuff.” Helping families around the world would be a wonderful gift to give in their honor.
It’s the Thought that Counts
As you consider finding affordable gifts for mom, remember the old saying. I know it sounds trite, but it really is the thought that counts.
While it is fun to give gifts that others will truly enjoy using, keep in mind that showing love and honor for these special women is what matters most. Not what is under the pretty wrapping paper.
What are some of your favorite gifts to give or receive?
Need More Holiday Gift Ideas? Check These Out:
- How to Make an Instant Pot Gift Basket
- Mother’s Day Gifts for the Disney Lover
- Fun Non-Toy Gifts for Kids
- Best Baking and Cooking Kits for Kids
- Gift Ideas for the Nurse in Your Life
Coolest Gifts says
Hi! I am Ina being a blogger I must appreciate your beautiful blog. It was a very pleasurable experience for me to visit here. Lots of best wishes and both thumbs up for your success. Thanks.
Chrysti Benner says
Hi Ina! Thanks so much! I’m glad you enjoyed your visit. I enjoyed visiting your site as well–so many fun gift ideas! 🙂
Ava Henry@PetraGifts says
nice DIY gifts ideas and well written thanks for sharing these list Wax and Wool Soy Candle is one which iam thinking about