We're Calling It: This $13 Item Will Be the Most Coveted White Elephant Gift

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holidays are slowly but surely creeping up, and we don't blame you if you wanna get a headstart on gift shopping! You're more than likely going to have one or two white elephant parties this season and, therefore, may need some help getting creative with what to buy. Thankfully for you, I'm here to be your guide to show you all the best white elephant gifts that your friends will probably be stealing from each other the whole event!

Now, if you need a lil refresher on what a white elephant party is, here's the gist: Everyone buys a gift that's worth the same amount and draws numbers to determine the order that they get to pick a random gift out of the group. Sounds easy, right? But there's a twist! You don't have to pick a new gift in the pile when it's your turn. If you've got your eye on a present that someone else has already opened, you can choose to steal their gift instead. Cue the drama, revenge, and suspense! In other words, expect even the closest of friends and family members to turn against each other in the blink of an eye and snatch gifts right from their loved ones. Gotta love the holiday spirit!

Because there are so many kinds of gift ideas you can bring to one of these get-togethers, you might be wondering where to start. You can go the quirky, random, funny route or you can choose to bring something functional and nice—just depends on the theme and the group. If you need some ideas to get the ball rollin’, here are 79 white elephant gift ideas $40 and under that’ll liven up any holiday party.

Though shopping is always fun—especially for the House Beautiful shopping editors—buying certain presents is more fun than others. Case in point: white elephant gifts. If you’re not familiar with this particular gift exchange, allow us to explain: everyone draws a number, gathers around a pile of concealed presents, takes turns drawing a gift, and unwraps it, revealing it to the rest of the players. As you may assume, the player who picked number one goes first. The following players can either choose a new gift from the pile or steal someone else’s. It's kind of like dirty Santa.

White elephant gifts are not meant to be luxurious, so feel free to go in the totally opposite direction and get something a bit cheeky, like a bar of soap shaped and scented like a lemon meringue cupcake or a hanging planter made from a hollowed-out disco ball. Of course, you can also skip the humor and snag something practical, like a magnetic privacy screen that attaches to a laptop, a compact desk calendar, or a dual charging station.

No matter what you get, you’re likely going to see your gift become the hot commodity at the exchange because all of our picks are that good. Curious to see what made the cut? Keep scrolling to find out! And while we're on the subject of presents for the holidays, explore a few of our other guides below.

• Gifts for friends

• Gifts for coworkers

• Gifts for mother-in-law

• Gifts for grandparents

• Gifts for coffee lovers

Cupcake Soap

Not only does this look exactly like a fluffy lemon meringue cupcake, but it smells like it too. Unfortunately for the sweet tooth at the party, it doesn't taste like one. This handmade soap actually does a great job cleaning and disinfecting your hands without leaving them too dry, courtesy of the palm, coconut, and safflower oils within.

Elephant Match Strike

If you're not quite sure what to bring to the gift exchange, why not a literal white elephant? This one takes pride of place on his pedestal and carries a set of matches on his back. Use the code "GIVEJA" to score 25 percent off at checkout.

Miniature Home Office

No, this is not a full office setup for under $25. Well, technically it is, but at less than four inches tall, it's not as practical as the life-size alternative. "Someone gifted me a miniature party, complete with a Champagne bottle, piece of cake on a plate—all of which were about an inch big—and it is so cute that I want everyone to have something miniature on their desks," Associate Editor Jessica Cherner says. "This feels like an appropriate one for an office."

Cable Management Box

For anyone with a particularly messy desk, this cable management box will be a serious game-changer. Store all of the tangled cords inside to keep them out of sight—even while you use them. There are thin slots on either end for the USB to poke through.

Citrine Palm Stone

Those with a passion for spirituality will appreciate this smooth and glossy citrine stone, which, if they believe in the power of healing crystals, will feel more motivated, creative, and productive when in its presence.

Magnetic Privacy Screen

If you're sitting a little too close to your neighbor at work, you may want to pop one of these privacy screens on your laptop or monitor. The screen is visible to anyone looking at it straight on, but not at an angle.

Disco Ball Planter

Give the gift of a 1970s-inspired party this year. This hollowed out disco ball is giving us serious Studio 54 vibes in all the right ways.

Car-Friendly French Fry Holder

Cupholders are not just for water bottles and thermoses. They're also for crispy French fries. At least that's what we'd like to believe. This hilarious French fry holder is the perfect white elephant gift because it's useful and funny.

2024 Desk Calendar

"Ever since I got my first post-grad job, I have had a desk calendar," Cherner admits. "Not only does it dress up my otherwise kind of boring desk, but it's so much quicker and easier than opening my phone, finding the calendar app, and checking the days manually."

Wireless Charging Stand

For anyone with a smaller desk space, a compact charger is a must. This one takes up only a few inches and can charge two devices as once, eliminating the need to prioritize your cellphone over your AirPods.

Portable Tabletop Fire Pit

Billowing flames aside, this cement-based campfire is totally safe to use, even indoors. It comes without the eye-burning smoke, finicky flames, and flying embers— all the things we don't love about more traditional campfires.

Micro-Pop Microwave Popcorn Popper

Gone are the days of burning your fingers while taking the piping-hot bag out of the microwave because this holder is made with temperature-safe glass. Even though it does get pretty toasty, none of the kernels will burn, courtesy of the circulating hot air. You can also melt the butter on the lid and watch it seep into the popcorn beneath. Yes, the whole thing is dishwasher-safe.

Banana-Saving Hats

This hat comes in two parts: the silicone part that covers the brown bits connecting the bananas and the knitted outer layer that looks adorable. As cute as it is, though, the caps do more than dress up your fruit; it keeps them fresh longer by slowly absorbing the ethylene gas that causes bananas to go bad.

Who's Most Likely To...

We're obsessed with party games. Not only do they get us off our phones in social settings, but they're a sure-fire way to get everyone in the vicinity to laugh.

Cell Phone Stand and Speaker

In situations where you're not in front of a proper television, this will definitely do. Just prop up your cell, open your favorite streaming service, and enjoy the audio through these top-notch, built-in speakers.

Storm Cloud

How adorable is this silhouette of a cloud? It's not just decorative, though. It's filled with a special liquid that crystalizes in different patterns as the air pressure changes, accurately mimicking real weather patterns.

Smiley Face Slippers

If your coworkers aren't the type to take their shoes off after walking through their front door, these slippers may convince them otherwise. Not only are they so cheerful, but they also protect the floors from all of the bacteria we drag in on our heels.

Bottle Twist Top

What is the cure for pretty much everything? Water. It's important to drink a ton of it everyday, so help keep your coworkers hydrated and healthy by gifting them a sleek color-blocked bottle.

Keyboard Cover Skin

Anyone whose 9-to-5 involves pecking away at a keyboard knows the annoyance that ensues when a crumb finds its way beneath a key. The letter, number, or mark in question becomes useless until the crumb eventually becomes released, which can take weeks. With a silky-smooth silicone keyboard cover, you'll never have to deal with useless keys or debris again. Because it's plastic, it's easy to clean in the event of a mess.

Portable Mini Humidifier

Even in the winter, office AC tends to make the whole floor feel a bit dry, which can cause nasal and throat discomfort, so for your desk neighbor, you may want to snag them one of these charming miniature humidifiers. And because they're only $10, you may want to grab one for yourself too.

Ballerina Herbal Warming Slippers

These are not made for walking, so feel free to wear them around the house post-work hours. They're just as comfortable as they look, courtesy of the removable insoles that are filled with aromatic lavender buds and thermally conductive flax seeds. Pop these into the microwave on the coldest days of the year, too, if you want your toes to feel extra toasty.

Dimmable Desk Lamp

This dimmable desk lamp isn't really meant for in-office use. Rather, it's perfect for at-home offices because ambient light, in our opinion, is best enjoyed at home. What's more, it connects to an app on your phone, so you can change the dimness settings and even the color.

Funky Desk Mirror

This is another piece that may look a bit out of place on an in-office desk. At home, though, no one would dare judge—especially because it actually comes in handy. Anyone who walks away from the gift exchange can check their hair before Zoom meetings, making it a sound investment, if you ask us.

Portable Charger

Anyone who goes to more than one off-site meeting would appreciate this portable charger that, at first glance, looks more like a traditional luggage tag. Rest assured, the nifty gadget is tucked inside.

Refrigerator Magnets, Set of 8

All of us know a sushi fanatic, right? Gifting them raw fish may not be the move, but a set of hyper-realistic set of sushi-inspired magnets works every time.

Silicone Bead Keychain Bracelet

"On days I don't feel like lugging my purse around, I pop my phone and credit card in my pocket and this on my wrist," Cherner notes. "I tend to put my keys down and walk away without them, so this keeps them on my person at all times."

Macaroni and Cheese Scented Candle

No, this is not a steaming bowl of freshly made mac and cheese—though it does smell like it. If you look closely, you'll find two wicks that, when lit, fill the room with a heavenly scent of our childhood.

Pack This! Pad

Nothing feels worse than when you arrive at your vacation only to realize you forgot your toothbrush or facial cleanser. With this extremely detailed notepad, you'll never forget any of the essentials. And for the you-specific products, there's a notes section to scribble in.

Andy Warhol Banana Stress Reliever

Everyone—no matter their profession—gets stressed at work sometimes, making this Andy Warhol-inspired banana the perfect gift for a co-worker. As soon as they release that first squeeze, they'll feel at least a little relief.

Wrist and Ankle Weights

Each wrist (or ankle) weight is exactly one pound, so they won't exactly drag anyone down, but they do work. Every time you lift your arms or cross your legs, you're getting in a mini work out.

Hair Claw Clips, Set of 8

"A friend was wearing one of these flower claw clips over the summer while we were on a bumpy boat ride in the ocean, which feels important to mention because her hair did not escape the clutches of this thing," Cherner notes. "I ended up buying a set and love them. There's a color for every outfit."

Milk Frother

Anyone trying to spend less money on coffee (or who fancies themselves an at-home barista) will love this handheld electric whisk. Froth milk for a Starbucks-worthy latte at home or create picture-perfect syrup patterns inside the glass for your iced macchiato.

Assorted Preserves

If you haven’t known the joy of Bonne Maman preserves on a fresh slice of bread, you’re truly missing out. Your white elephant recipient won’t have to, though, with this collection of eight assorted mini jams.

CozyChic Heathered Socks

Fuzzy socks are a crucial part of any winter uniform, and these from the makers of the viral fuzzy blanket are extra cushy. Wear them to keep your feet cozy around the house or while lounging in bed.

Car Cleaning Gel Kit

Unwanted crumbs from drive-through runs can pile up in the center console. This handy neon putty is designed to make getting into those nooks and crannies a breeze, leaving no dust unturned. It even works for messy keyboards.

Massage Gun

This massage gun has more than 15,000 five-star reviews praising its ease of use, powerful massage action, and long battery life. Let the muscle tension melt away.

Gilded Agate Coaster

Protect your precious hardwood tables with these gilded agate coasters. Guests can rest their drinks on these elegant pieces of stone, whether you choose rose quartz for compassion or blue agate for relaxation.

Desktop Vacuum Cleaner

If there's a surface that gets messier than a floor, it's a desk, which makes this tabletop vacuum ultra handy. Whoever ends up with this nifty gadget will definitely appreciate what it can do.

Indoor Stainless Steel S'mores Maker

S'mores are a year-round treat to be enjoyed on any occasion—but they're especially good during the winter holidays. The only issue? It's usually a little too cold to bring the party outside where the campfire is, so opt for a miniature one that's safe to use inside. (FYI: Christina Hall's family loves this one!)

Adulting Merit Badge Mug

You can never have too many mugs, so if you're stuck and can't figure out what to get for the white elephant party, you can't go wrong with a mug—especially a cool one like this Uncommon Goods find.

Mini Bowling Set Table Top Bowling Game

If you can't get a sense of how small this thing is from the photo, let us just say it's the perfect size. At under a foot long, you can bring it to dinner, happy hour, or any other event that could use a little fun.

Catch:1

It's no surprise that this sleek device charger is one of Oprah's favorite things. Place it on the edge of your desk or nightstand and let it bring your phone, AirPods, or Apple Watch back to life.

Collapsible Silicone Travel Mug

Eco-friendly, easy to clean and carry, this mug is for the colleague who can't start their day without coffee. Contrary to how it may look here, it doesn't come as a set of two. The image on the right is what it looks like when it's collapsed.

Bamboo Cheese Board and Knife Set

Even if you're not constantly inviting friends and family over, a cheese board is a must in pretty much every home. After all, you never know when someone you love will drop by for a quick bite and a catch-up.

Baby Yoda Mini Waffle Maker

For Star Wars lovers with an affinity for breakfast foods, this Baby Yoda waffle maker will become their most-used kitchen appliance. It even stamps the waffles with his adorable little face.

Bluetooth Banana Phone

Compatible with iPhones and Androids, this goofy handheld phone will instantly become the hot commodity at the gift exchange soiree. It may not be the device of choice for work calls, but it sure is fun.

Wireless Microphone

There's no need to give up singing in the shower, but for those who can hit a high note, this wireless microphone makes for a good gift. It's complete with LED lights and a few fun controls (like voice changers and more).

Succulent Assortment

The green thumb of the friend group will make sure to grab this trio of succulents at the gift exchange. Not only are they easy to care for (water a few tablespoons every two weeks or so), but they're absolutely adorable.

Single Serve Pour-Over Coffee Maker

There's no need to splurge on a standard coffee maker with a brewing capacity of eight cups when you can opt for a single-serve pour-over alternative that spills the drip directly into the mug. How's that for convenient?

Beer Preserver

This may be more cheeky than useful, but if anyone in the group is a beer drinker they'll love this life-vest-shaped koozie.

Mug and Charging Coaster

This stainless steel self-heating mug comes with a built-in battery to keep coffee and tea warm for up to three hours, so feel free to savor every sip because there's no rush to slurp it down.

Gold Monogram Mug

This may be a tough one because it's monogrammed. That said, whoever ends up with it will feel that much more special. Plus, like we said, you can never have too many mugs.

Breakfast Sandwich Maker

This breakfast sandwich maker will most definitely speed up morning routines, as it can whip up a tasty delicacy in a matter of minutes. And because there's a spot for everything (bread, meat, and eggs), it's impossible to mess anything up.

Magic Slushie Maker

This all-in-one slushie maker may seem like a random addition to the list, but since it arrived on the market it has scored more than 45 million views on TikTok, so it must be good!

Wooden Cell Phone and Pen Holder

For small desks without a lot of space to spare for office essentials, this elephant-shaped organizer (which also props up a cell phone) will come in handy.

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