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Posted: 2023-11-30T10:45:45Z | Updated: 2023-11-30T10:45:45Z Actually Great Under-$25 Ideas For Those Awkward Office Gift Exchanges | HuffPost Life

Actually Great Under-$25 Ideas For Those Awkward Office Gift Exchanges

This electric mug warmer and other crowd-pleasers will be perfect for your upcoming work holiday party.
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Amazon
An undetectable mouse jiggler , a foam foot rest and a mini Bluetooth speaker .

We’ve all been there. The holidays come around, the annual office party gift exchange is announced, and you’re now tasked with the impossible: gifting a person you don’t know that well with something that hopefully won’t end up in the trash, or worse, re-gifted.  

After my own fair share of awkward “secret Santa” and “white elephant” parties , I’ve used my powers of over-analyzing to determine the various factors that make a present a successful one. It should be something that’s universally useful, legitimately nice, maybe a tinge humorous and an item that the receiver might not have thought to buy for themselves — all while respecting the affordable price parameters given in a gift exchange, because let’s be honest, no one likes the showoff who goes way over budget. 

If you have such a party coming up and are curious about what I’ve come up with, keep reading to find a selection of gift ideas that are all $25 and under. Find things like vacuum-sealed food jars perfect for packing lunches, desk accessories that can make workflow a breeze and other nifty goods. 

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

1
An adjustable foam foot rest
Add a dose of ergonomic comfort to someone's desk situation with this two-piece foot rest that's height-adjustable so it can meet a variety of needs. It's made from a compression-resistant and high-density memory foam, and has the potential to help relieve lower back pain, promote better posture and support the hips.
2
An automatic mug warmer
This slim electric mug warmer is the perfect addition to anyone's WFH situation, office desk or living room side table thanks to its clever ability to keep hot beverages toasty warm at the perfect temperature for sipping. Suitable for most cups, the waterproof heating element has on-and-off indicator and an extra long USB cord so drinks can be heated from just about anywhere.
3
A surge-protected charging station
This multi-sided charging station can be a lifesaver for rooms or offices that have scarce or oddly located outlets. It features a six-foot extension cord plus eight traditional plugs and four USB ports, each one surge-protected so that all of your coworker's lamps, appliances and devices can be plugged in and charged up safely.
4
Etsy/RosebudHomeGoods
A bubble-style planter
Made from upcycled materials and 3D-printed by a small business in California, this contemporary bubble-style planter would be a good-looking addition to your coworker's desk at home or in the office, especially if they happen to be a plant lover. Available in a variety of sizes and colors, including ombre colorways, each of these bubble pots has drainage holes to prevent plants from being over-watered.
5
A pair of Merino wool-blend sweater socks
Think of these cozy calf socks from Bombas like sweaters for the feet, knitted from a soft blend of Merino wool and featuring a seam-free toe that's never annoying. These can be bought in three sizes for both men and women and in a variety of color combinations.
6
Etsy/AxelssonFunFactory
A watering rain cloud for plants
A gift that's both functional and unique and perfect for your coworker's office plant, this rain cloud gently drips water on plants for 5-10 minutes, so as not to overwhelm the soil while also creating an eye-catching display. It's also handmade by a small business in Georgia.
7
An undetectable mouse jiggler
While I won't get into the ethics of needing a mouse jiggler, these can definitely be helpful little devices for working situations by keeping your colleague looking online while they run to the bathroom or do a quick task during the workday or to keep screens on during work presentations. There's no software downloading required, it just plugs in to a computer's USB port and quietly simulates mouse movement for as long as the user needs to look "active."
8
A percussive massage gun that doesn't cost and arm and a leg
Everyone could use a little tension relief, and this percussive massage gun delivers deep and high-penetration pressure into stiff and sore muscles. This relaxing tool comes with six different massage heads for targeted relief and an impressive 20 levels of intensity.
9
A small but mighty Bluetooth speaker
Don't let its adorably tiny appearance fool you, this wireless and waterproof Bluetooth speaker promises an impressive high fidelity sound in virtually any surrounding, be it the shower, an outdoor hiking trip or a lounge by the pool. It comes in seven different colors.
10
A 10-ounce Yeti tumbler
It's impossible to have too many drinking vessels, and Yeti has a longstanding reputation for crafting insanely durable drinkware that keeps beverages cold or hot for long periods of time. This 10-ounce easy-to-stack Rambler mug is made with vacuum-insulated stainless steel and a brushed exterior that's resistant to condensation. It features the brand's well-known mag-sliding lid and comes in tons of color options, like this limited edition lilac and classic charcoal gray.
11
A vacuum-insulated food jar
With this Mira food jar, your coworker can transport their work lunches without the fear of their favorite soup leaking or a general loss of freshness. The compact and reliable design is made with a triple-walled vacuum insulation and a condensation-resistant exterior so it's perfect for travel.
12
A Bluetooth tracking tile
Your coworker can pop this thin waterproof Bluetooth tag into their suitcase, wallet or purse so they never lose their valuables ever again. Through the Tile smart phone app, important items can be tracked up to 250 feet away and past locations can be seen when items have gone out of Bluetooth range. Tile owners can also set up notifications if an item has been found, as well as sound alerts.
13
Etsy/GlowTopGifts
A humorous and personalized candle
Despite the trope that candles are a lazy present choice susceptible to re-gifting, this one takes a bit more effort and adds a personalized and funny touch that's perfect for any coworker with a sense of humor. Hand-poured in a reusable amber glass votive and made with a coconut-based wax and cotton wick, this candle can come in a variety of scent options like blood orange, wild fig or even no scent at all.
14
Etsy/Paulveeo
A personalized embroidered bookmark
If your gift-receiver happens to be a book lover, grab this sweet handmade present that's crafted by a small business in California. Choose from four different color schemes, each one featuring beautiful embroidered detailing.
15
A wireless charging station
This wireless charging station declutters nightstands and desktops while quickly juicing up one of your coworker's most used possessions: their phone. It's compatible with a variety of phones and phone generations, both Apple and Android, and it doesn't require the removal of phone cases to work.
16
A sleek essential oil diffuser and humidifier
For anyone that you suspect to be experiencing a little work-related stress, this essential oil diffuser disperses a soothing and aromatic mist while also offering the hydrating benefits of a humidifier. Receivers can also cycle through an array of lighting and brightness settings to fit their mood.
17
Etsy/TheWeekenderSoapCo
An assortment of 10 aromatherapy shower steamers
Infused with an assortment of essential oils, these steamers fizz and melt at the base of the shower to deliver some serious spa-like aromatherapy, making these a great option if you're not sure if your coworker has a bathtub or not. The different scents include peony and rose, menthol and eucalyptus and soothing lavender.

Before You Go

Gifts From Nordstrom Under $40
A timeless classic Carhartt beanie(01 of24)
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Possibly the most universal present, a Carhartt beanie is a timeless winter piece that goes with every outfit. It will keep anyone's ears warm while still fitting close to the head and promises to last for years to come. (credit:Nordstrom)
Le Labo hand cream(02 of24)
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Give a touch of luxury with this creamy, deeply nourishing hand cream from Le Labo. It's small enough to take on a plane or to slip in a bag or desk drawer. The earthbound scent is inspired by the hinoki-tree forests of Japan. (credit:Nordstrom)
A cookbook for a soup lover(03 of24)
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Everybody loves soup! This gorgeous colorful cookbook contains recipes for more than 85 soups, broths, chowders, chilis and gazpacho to take you through every season. It's a great gift for someone you know loves to cook or to bring for a gift exchange or office party. (credit:Nordstrom)
A set of Kiehl's minis for whole-body moisturizing(04 of24)
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Valued at $70, this four-piece Kiehl's set is a total steal. It contains a body moisturizer, creamy eye treatment with avocado, an ultra facial cream and a hand salve to keep your face, eyes and hands feeling soft. (credit:Nordstrom)
A Le Creuset zodiac mug(05 of24)
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If you know someone who likes both fine cookware and astrology, a Le Creuset zodiac mug could be the perfect present. It's made from dishwasher-safe stoneware that promises to keep your coffee hot and has a gorgeous illustration for each sign. (credit:Nordstrom)
A two-pack of Barefoot Dreams beloved socks(06 of24)
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Loved by celebrities, Barefoot Dreams is know for a selection of super soft cozy items like bedding, clothing and accessories. This set of two pairs of socks promise to feel amazing on the feet, with a construction that the brand describes as "fluffy" and that one reviewer described as a cuddly hug. (credit:Nordstrom)
A Hersel travel toiletry bag(07 of24)
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With a waterproof zipper and a lining you can wipe clean, this dopp kit is the perfect thing for folks on the go. It comes in bright and neutral colors and has a smaller front pocket for valuables or smaller items. (credit:Nordstrom)
A set of three Charlotte Tilbury mini lipsticks(08 of24)
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Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks are a universal crowd-pleaser. This set of three long-lasting matte lipsticks features the shades Walk of No Shame, Stoned Rose and Pillow Talk. (credit:Nordstrom)
A 20-ounce Stanley cup that's compact to carry(09 of24)
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Offering all the perks of bigger Stanley cups but in a smaller package, this 20-ounce Quencher tumbler will easily fit in your car console and other cup holders and will keep your drinks cold for up to 12 hours. It features a reusable straw and an easy-twist on lid, and each piece is dishwasher-safe. (credit:Nordstrom)
A dreamy plush throw blanket with twisted fringe(10 of24)
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Everyone loves a plush blanket, especially one with chic fringed edges that comes in dreamy colors. This one is 50 inches by 60 inches, can go in the washing machine and looks amazing on a bed or couch. (credit:Nordstrom)
A weighted eye mask for calming sleep(11 of24)
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Like a weighted blanket for your eyes, this cotton eye mask gives you gentle pressure to help you de-stress as you fall asleep. It's super soft to the touch and will help keep light from peeking in as you slumber. (credit:Nordstrom)
A whimsically chic Barbour poop bag holder that clips to a leash(12 of24)
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There are few things more unexpectedly high-end than a Barbour plaid dog-poop bag. If your friends love the British brand, they'll surely get a kick out of this adorable pet accessory. (credit:Nordstrom)
An at-home gel manicure kit with a mini LED lamp(13 of24)
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Everything you need for a grade-A home gel manicure, this little set contains a one-step gel polish, cuticle stick, nail file, 10 nail polish remover pads and a adorable macaroon-shaped LED light to finish the look. (credit:Nordstrom)
A kitschy seltzer-themed dog toy(14 of24)
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Seltzer lovers and dog owners will get a kick out of this La Croix-inspired doggy chew toy. It comes in a hilarious "'pamplemutt" flavor and will keep humans and puppies entertained. (credit:Nordstrom)
A personalized friendship bracelet with a metal clasp(15 of24)
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An upgraded take on a summer camp classic, this mixed material friendship bracelet features a gold color clasp that makes it easy to take on and off. You can personalize it with up to nine letters or add a heart charm. (Note that customize items are final sale.) (credit:Nordstrom)
A pair of Jack Black SPF 25 lip balms(16 of24)
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Replenish lips and give a little sun protection with this set of unisex Jack Black lip balms. Each pair comes in six different bright flavors, all which are transparent to wear and promise to intensely soothe chapped lips. (credit:Nordstrom)
An adorable rainbow multitool(17 of24)
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Is there anything cuter than this colorful multitool that holds seven hex keys, a Phillips-head screwdriver, a slotted screwdriver and a star screwdriver? Friends that bike or love to be handy will be so glad to finally have a versatile tool in a fun selection of hues. (credit:Nordstrom)
A trio of Kylie cosmetics glosses(18 of24)
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One of the biggest names in the lip products game, Kylie Cosmetics is offering up a set of three glosses that promise to be super shiny and luminous without being sticky. (credit:Nordstrom)
A retro-inspired AM/FM radio with Bluetooth capability(19 of24)
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This nostalgic portable radio plays all the AM and FM channels and works as a Bluetooth speaker to broadcast songs and podcasts from your phone. It has a super cute vintage look that will pull together a nightstand or bookshelf. (credit:Nordstrom)
A Party Machine light-up microphone with six voice changing options(20 of24)
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We're a big fan of portable karaoke microphones here at HuffPost, and the Party Machine promises to amp of the festivities with the best of them. Break into an impromptu light up sing-a-long or use the six funny voice changers to bond with friends and get the party going. (credit:Nordstrom)
A trio of L'Occitane hand creams(21 of24)
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A little festive pampering, this set of three L'Occitane hand lotions contains a sweet almond option, a whipped powdered shea cream and an earthy cream with notes of mandarin, olive leaves and ginger. (credit:Nordstrom)
A Yves Saint Laurent travel set with a pouch(22 of24)
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A little glamour at an unbeatable price, this Yves Saint Laurent beauty set contains an extreme volume mascara, satin lipstick in nude and red and a white and gold marble cosmetics bag to keep it all together. (credit:Nordstrom)
A plug-in mino disco ball for spontaneous dance parties(23 of24)
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A fun stocking stuffer, this plug-in disco ball lights up with whatever music you are playing and goes directly into your phone to bring the party. (credit:Nordstrom)
A set of five Patchology masks(24 of24)
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Give someone a fun spa night at home with this set of five masks. It includes a ros foot mask, two sets of cooling under-eye pads and a hydrating face sheet mask. (credit:Nordstrom)

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