Struggling to finish your Christmas shopping or looking for a unique holiday gift? Whether you're shopping for your housemate or for a friend or family member who shares a home, consider giving a gift that they'll actually use! The team at HomeShare Alliance has curated a list of house sharing-themed gifts that are sure to be a hit this holiday.
1. All Out of Pads
While there are lots of apps that help housemates keep track of groceries, some people prefer good old-fashioned paper lists. All Out of Pads are available in different colours and are the perfect addition for your fridge or cupboard, where you can easily check off items as you run out of them. Then, when it's time to go shopping, the grocery list will already be done! What's most amazing is that you can get this at Chapters for under $10!
2. Clean/Dirty Dishwasher Magnet
There's no way to get your lines of communication crossed when you have a magnet that announces to everyone whether the dishwasher is clean or dirty. These magnets can be found in all types of styles and shapes at most major stores. Bed Bath & Beyond has them for just $3!
3. Dry Erase Whiteboard
A dry erase whiteboard is a great way for housemates to leave each other notes or reminders and is especially helpful if you exist on different schedules. There are magnetic ones that will stick to appliances, and whiteboards that you can mount on the wall. Staples has both in varying sizes and prices.
4. Hanging Over the Door Organizer
The key to a happy housemate is organization! An over-the-door organizer is a great space-saving solution and wonderful way to keep smaller items organized and easily accessible. An over the door organizer is ideal for bathrooms, laundry rooms, bedrooms, and front hall closets. You can find them almost anywhere. Walmart has them in a range of sizes, styles, and prices.
5. Adult Colouring Books
The pandemic has been stressful and believe it or not, colouring is a proven way to reduce stress (and boredom). You can find colouring books for adults at most major stores. Chapters has some lovely ones to choose from.
6. White Noise Machine
What do you do if you are an early riser and your housemate is a night owl? A white noise machine may be the solution! This gift is great for anyone who wants to block out noise or who struggles to fall asleep (and stay asleep) at night. A white noise machine is also especially helpful for anyone who works shifts. There are many different styles on Amazon, and you can certainly take your pick depending on your budget and the features you're looking for.
7. Wireless Headphones
If your housemate likes to run, is regularly on Zoom meetings for work, enjoys playing video games, listens to music, or watches movies with the volume up, then wireless headphones are a great gift. You can find wireless headphones for all kinds of purposes – even noise cancelling headphones that help you concentrate and focus! Best Buy has all types of headphones with different capabilities and at different prices.
8. Shop Local!
It's always great to support local small business owners, and that's especially true right now! Homemade jam, local honey, hats and mittens, hand crafted candles, and arts and crafts are a few of the wares that local businesses in your area sell. Consider posting in your local Facebook Group or search on Instagram and you'll find lots of options out there!
9. Gift Cards
From gas to restaurants to your housemate's favourite store, a gift card is something you can be sure they'll use! This is especially helpful around the holidays when many people's expenses are increased as they shop for others.
10. Homemade Meals
If a gift just isn't in your budget, then consider cooking a meal instead. Choose a dish that you know they love, purchase the ingredients, and make enough to ensure there are leftovers! This is a very thoughtful and inexpensive way to show your housemate, family member or friend that you appreciate them.
These house sharing-themed gift ideas are sure to brighten someone's holiday. For more home sharing tips and ideas, or to learn about how to get involved in home sharing, give the team at HomeShare Alliance a call. We love matching homeowners with the perfect housemate!