Finding the right gift for a co-worker can sometimes feel like navigating a tricky office etiquette maze. You want to show your appreciation, acknowledge their hard work, or celebrate a special occasion without overstepping boundaries or breaking the bank. Whether it’s for the holidays, a birthday, a work anniversary, or just because, choosing a thoughtful and appropriate gift can strengthen professional relationships and boost team morale. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect token of gratitude, look no further. We’ve curated a list of standout co-worker gift ideas that are sure to impress, covering a range of interests and budgets, mostly under $50!
Top Co-worker Gift Picks from Our Editors
Our team spends countless hours collaborating and brainstorming, both virtually and in the office. We understand the value of strong co-worker relationships, built on shared laughter, inside jokes, and collaborative successes. When gift-giving occasions arise, we aim for presents that are both practical and personal. We’ve put together some of our go-to co-worker gift ideas, focusing on items that are genuinely useful and enjoyable in a professional setting. From the caffeine-dependent colleague to the stationery enthusiast, we’ve got you covered.
Personalized and Practical Gifts
Monogram Mug
Threshold Stoneware Monogram Mug
A personalized mug, like the Threshold Stoneware Monogram Mug, is a classic for a reason. It’s a thoughtful way to acknowledge your co-worker’s daily coffee or tea ritual. Commerce editor Amanda Fama highlights the usefulness of a good mug as a gift, especially for those who rely on caffeine to power through the workday. Adding their initial makes it feel a bit more special than a generic office mug.
Gourmet Food Gifts
Spicy Chili Sauce
Sichuan GoldFor the co-worker who loves to spice things up, Fly By Jing Chili Sauce is an excellent choice. Senior SEO editor Jess Bender recommends this for the office foodie who brings exciting homemade lunches. This chili sauce, featured on Hot Ones, offers a flavorful kick that’s a step up from standard chili oil, perfect for enhancing their midday meals.
Sustainable and Stylish
Reusable Tote Bag
Reusable BagA Baggu Reusable Bag is both practical and environmentally conscious. Associate editor Sierra Hoeger points out that tote bags are ubiquitous in offices, but a Baggu stands out for its sustainability, affordability, and style. With 30 colors and patterns available, you can select one that matches your co-worker’s personal style.
Stationery and Desk Essentials
High-Quality Gel Pens
Gel Ink Ballpoint Pens (Set of 10)
Muji Gel Ink Cap Type Ballpoint Pens are a favorite among stationery lovers. Social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo has gifted these “best pens” before, appreciating their smooth writing and wide color selection. A set of 10 gel pens for under $15 is a practical yet luxurious-feeling gift for any co-worker who values quality writing tools.
Multi-Purpose Box Cutter
Box CutterThe Slice Box Cutter is a surprisingly useful desk gadget. Shop TODAY editor Rebecca Brown highlights its effectiveness in opening packages, from Amazon boxes to clamshell packaging. Its safety features and micro-blade make it a handy tool for any office or home workspace.
Self-Care and Wellness Gifts
Hydrating Lotion
Ceramide Ato LotionILLIYOON Ceramide Ato Lotion is a thoughtful gift for co-workers battling dry skin, especially during colder months. Production coordinator Camryn Privette recommends this as her “favorite body lotion,” emphasizing its hydrating ceramides. A lotion focused on skin health is a caring and practical gift.
Cozy Comfort Slippers
Soft Knit ClogsDearfoams Soft Knit Clogs offer comfort for chilly offices or home offices. These temperature-regulating slippers are ideal for co-workers who are always cold, featuring a flannel lining and memory foam for support. Whether for office wear or working from home, cozy slippers are a welcome gift.
Office Ambiance Enhancers
Reed Diffuser
Wild Herb Tonic Reed DiffuserA P.F. Candle Co Wild Herb Tonic Reed Diffuser can subtly enhance the office environment. Annie Shigo gifts these diffusers for their light and universally appealing scent, making the office a more pleasant space. A gentle fragrance diffuser is a thoughtful way to improve their workspace.
Fragrance Mist
Hair and Body Fragrance MistMoroccanoil Hair and Body Fragrance Mist is perfect for beauty-loving co-workers. Holiday editor Nina Bradley suggests this scented spray, enriched with argan oil and vitamin E for hydration. With thousands of positive reviews, it’s a well-received beauty treat.
Entertainment and Relaxation
Chic Puzzle
JuicyFor a co-worker who enjoys games or downtime activities, the Le Puzz Juicy Puzzle is a stylish and engaging gift. This 500-piece puzzle is perfect for breaks or unwinding after work, featuring unique piece cuts and beautiful artwork.
Lunch and Food Related Gifts
Insulated Lunch Bag
Puffy Lunch BagThe Baggu Puffy Lunch Bag is a stylish and practical gift for the co-worker who brings lunch to the office. Sierra Hoeger recommends this insulated tote for its functionality and attractive gingham design. It’s a worthwhile upgrade from standard lunch bags.
Portable Food Warmer
Electric Lunch BoxThe Crockpot Electric Lunch Box is ideal for co-workers who prefer warm lunches without using the office microwave. This portable warmer heats meals right at their desk, eliminating the need for communal kitchen appliances and keeping lunch secure with a tight-sealing lid.
Desk Comfort and Tech Gifts
Portable Space Heater
1500W Portable Space HeaterFor perpetually cold co-workers, the COSTWAY 1500W Portable Space Heater is a thoughtful gift. Shop TODAY editor Vivien Moon suggests this compact heater for personal office spaces (where allowed). Its portability, oscillation, and multiple settings make it useful year-round.
Trendy Water Tumbler
The Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler
The Stanley The Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler is a popular and practical gift, especially for those who prioritize hydration. If your co-worker always has a water bottle, gifting them a Stanley, known for keeping drinks cold for hours, is a trendy and appreciated gesture. Available in numerous colors, it’s easy to personalize.
Flavor Enhancing Gifts
Sauce Set
Sauce KitsOmsom Sauce Set packets are a flavorful gift for co-workers who enjoy adding zest to their meals. Annie Shigo recommends these for their variety and convenience, especially for those with limited pantry space. The 15-pack offers a range of exciting flavors to elevate any dish.
Tech and Office Gift Ideas for Co-workers
Ergonomic Pen
PILOT Dr. Grip Limited Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Rolling Ball Pen, Fine Point, Metallic Charcoal Gray Barrel, Black Ink, Single Pen (36270)The Pilot Dr. Grip Limited Pen is a thoughtful gift for co-workers who do a lot of writing. This Shop TODAY-approved pen is recognized by the Arthritis Foundation for its comfortable design, making it ideal for extended writing tasks.
Stain Remover Pen
Pen Stain RemoverTide To Go Pen Stain Remover is a practical and essential office gift. Accidents happen, and a Tide pen is a lifesaver for quick stain removal. A pack of these pens is a useful and appreciated present.
Protective Laptop Sleeve
Laptop Sleeve CaseA Water-Resistant Laptop Sleeve is a must-have for co-workers who commute or travel with their laptops. This padded sleeve offers protection and has overwhelmingly positive reviews, ensuring their tech is safe on the go.
Minimalist Phone Stand
Phone StandThe CedarandStoneGarden Phone Stand is a simple yet effective desk accessory. This concrete phone stand keeps work phones visible and upright, blending seamlessly with any desk decor. Its popularity on Etsy speaks to its usefulness and aesthetic appeal.
Desk Planner
Weekly Desk PlannerA Papier Weekly Desk Planner helps co-workers stay organized and on track. Available in various designs and customizable options, it’s a stylish and functional gift for planning their work week.
Desk Diversion Game
Desktop GolfKikkerland Desktop Golf offers a fun break during the workday. This mini golf game adds a touch of relaxation and amusement to their desk, perfect for short mental breaks.
Decorative Pen Holder
Confetti Acrylic Pen + Pencil Cup Holder
The TaylorElliotDesigns Confetti Acrylic Pen + Pencil Cup Holder adds a vibrant and decorative element to any desk. This handmade Etsy pick brings color and sparkle to their workspace, appreciated for its aesthetic and functionality.
Stationery Set
Social Stationery SetA Rifle Paper Co. Stationary Set is a sophisticated and elegant gift for sending memos or thank-you notes. This set of floral stationery adds a personal touch to office communications.
Extra Laptop Charger
Mac ChargerAn ixcv Mac Book Pro Charger is a practical and appreciated tech gift. An extra charger for the office ensures they’re always powered up, especially during busy days.
Desk Organizer Trays
Faux Leather TraysNavaris Faux Leather Trays offer stylish desk organization. These trays are perfect for keeping essentials like phones, keys, and small items neatly arranged and accessible on their desk.
Mini Desk Trash Can
Mini CanThe Simplehuman Mini Can is a sleek and functional gift for a tidy co-worker. This small desk trash can is perfect for paper scraps, keeping their workspace clean and organized.
Ergonomic Seat Cushion
ComfiLife Gel Seat CushionA Gel Seat Cushion provides comfort for co-workers who spend long hours sitting. The ComfiLife Gel Seat Cushion offers back and tailbone support, making it a practical gift for office workers focused on wellness.
Beauty and Wellness Gift Ideas for Co-workers
Relaxing Jade Roller
Jade Face RollerA Sense Island Jade Face Roller is a stress-relieving and pampering gift. This jade roller helps reduce facial puffiness and tension, offering a moment of relaxation during the workday.
Essential Oil Diffuser
Essential Oil DiffuserThe Urpower Essential Oil Diffuser creates a calming office atmosphere. This diffuser doubles as a humidifier, enhancing aromatherapy and promoting a relaxed workspace.
Refreshing Dry Shampoo
Dry Shampoo Spraydivi Dry Shampoo Spray is a convenient beauty gift for quick office touch-ups. Camryn Privette recommends this dry shampoo for its effectiveness in refreshing hair throughout the workday.
Hydrating Face Masks
Variety Hydrogel Face Masks (Set of 5)
Loops Variety Hydrogel Face Masks are a self-care treat for co-workers. This set of sheet masks offers various benefits, from detoxifying to brightening, encouraging relaxation and skincare.
Beauty Gift Set
Perfect in Pink Gift SetA Bath & Body Works Perfect in Pink Gift Set is a simple and delightful beauty gift. This set includes sweet-smelling body care products, a universally appealing and pampering present.
Food and Beverage Gift Ideas for Co-workers
Bento Lunch Box
Bentgo Classic – All-in-One Stackable Bento Lunch Box Container – Modern Bento-Style Design Includes 2 Stackable Containers, Built-in Plastic Utensil Set, and Nylon Sealing Strap (Blue)The Bentgo All-in-One Stackable Lunch/Bento Box is perfect for co-workers who bring lunch regularly. It’s a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to takeout, with stackable containers and built-in utensils.
Wine Stoppers
Beanie Wine StoppersBeanie Wine Stoppers are a fun and practical gift for the happy hour enthusiast. These cute wine stoppers keep beverages fresh and add a touch of whimsy to their home bar.
Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee MakerThe Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker is ideal for coffee-loving co-workers. This maker allows them to easily brew cold brew at home, saving money and enjoying premium coffee.
International Snack Subscription Box
Japanese Snack BoxesSakuraco Subscription Snack Boxes are a delightful and unique food gift. Filled with Japanese snacks and teas, these boxes offer a monthly surprise of curated treats.
Gourmet Truffle Box
10 Piece Signature Truffle Gift Box
Compartes Signature Truffle Box is a luxurious chocolate gift to show appreciation. These gourmet truffles are beautifully packaged and delicious, perfect for a special thank you.
Double Wall Coffee Mugs
Mug Glasses (Set of 2)Corkcicle Double Wall Coffee Mugs are a stylish and functional gift for coffee and tea drinkers. These mugs keep drinks at the perfect temperature and look elegant on any desk.
Bakery Sampler Pack
Best of Magnolia Bakery Sampler Pack
The “Best of Magnolia Bakery” Sampler Pack is ideal for gifting to a team or group of co-workers. This sweet treat assortment from Magnolia Bakery offers a variety of their bestsellers, perfect for sharing.
Food Delivery Gift Card
E-Gift Card From Gift Cards + Merch
A Goldbelly Gift Card is a versatile and appreciated gift for any foodie. It allows them to choose from a wide range of gourmet foods from across the country.
Clothing and Accessory Gift Ideas for Co-workers
Stylish Silk Scarf
FONYVE Silk Feeling ScarfA Silk Feeling Scarf is a fashionable and budget-friendly gift. This versatile scarf can be worn in multiple ways, adding a touch of elegance to their outfit.
Elegant Necklace
14K Gold Plated NecklaceThe Pavoi 14K Gold Plated Necklace is a beautiful and affordable jewelry gift. This delicate necklace looks more expensive than it is, adding a subtle sparkle to their style.
Inspirational Bracelet
Embrace Ambition BraceletThe Tory Burch Embrace Ambition Bracelet is a meaningful and stylish accessory. This bracelet serves as a subtle reminder of ambition and pairs well with other jewelry.
Trendy Belt Bag
Everywhere Belt Bag 1LThe Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is a versatile and popular accessory. Ideal for commuters, travelers, or anyone on the go, it keeps essentials accessible and hands-free.
Fashionable Shoulder Bag
Molly Shoulder BagThe Vera Bradley UO Exclusive Molly Shoulder Bag is a stylish and trendy bag. This limited-edition shoulder bag is perfect for commuting or adding flair to office happy hours.
Wearable Blanket
The Comfy OriginalThe Comfy Original is a fun and cozy gift for remote workers or anyone who values comfort. This wearable blanket is perfect for staying warm and comfortable during video calls or work-from-home days.
Unique Gift Ideas for Co-workers
Novelty Journal
Cat Mermaid JournalThe Cute Purrmaid Cat Mermaid Hardcover Journal is a quirky and fun gift for cat lovers. This Redbubble journal is sure to bring a smile and is perfect for note-taking or creative writing.
Stress Relief Balls
Mind & Body Stress BallsMindPanda Hand Therapy Stress Balls are a practical and thoughtful stress-relief gift. Infused with essential oils, these stress balls help calm and focus during busy work periods.
Indoor Herb Garden Kit
Indoor Herb GardenA Mason Jar Indoor Herb Garden is a unique and green gift. This grow-your-own herb kit is perfect for co-workers who enjoy plants and gardening, adding a touch of nature to their space.
Mystery Game
Nancy Drew: Mystery at Magnolia Gardens Game
Nancy Drew: Mystery at Magnolia Gardens Game is a captivating gift for true crime enthusiasts. This immersive board game offers an engaging mystery to solve, perfect for game nights.
Long-Lasting Flower Bouquet
Preserved Flower BouquetA Preserved Flower Bouquet is a beautiful and enduring gift. These handmade bouquets last for years, offering lasting beauty without the upkeep of fresh flowers.
LEGO Succulents Set
SucculentsLego Icons Succulents are a creative and unique desk décor gift. This LEGO set allows them to build their own succulent display, adding a playful and lasting touch to their workspace.
Humorous Candle
Out of Office CandleThe Here for the Burn Out Of Office Candle is a funny and fragrant gift for co-workers who need to unwind. With a cheeky “OOO” message and pleasant scents, it’s a reminder to relax and disconnect.
Mini Money Tree
Mini Money TreeA Bloomscape Mini Money Tree is a symbolic and charming gift for wishing prosperity. This pet-friendly plant adds greenery to their space and represents good fortune.
2-in-1 Game Set
2-in-1 Chess & Checkers SetThe MoMA Design Store 2-in-1 Chess & Checkers Set is a sophisticated and engaging gift for game lovers. This set combines two classic games in a stylish design, perfect for office display and mental challenges.
How We Curated These Co-worker Gift Ideas
The Shop TODAY team is dedicated to discovering top-quality products and exceptional gifts. We leverage our brand knowledge and shopping expertise to identify unique and desirable items that are sure to be well-received as co-worker gifts. We aim to provide diverse options that cater to various personalities and preferences, ensuring you can find the perfect way to show your appreciation.
For more gifting inspiration, be sure to explore Shop TODAY’s other gift guides for every occasion and recipient.
