Educate yourself on the best can't-miss gift choices for your favorite teachers.
When you really think about it, teachers spend a significant amount of time with their students in their waking hours. Teachers plan lessons, educate students and somehow manage to tackle an entire classroom of individuals every weekday. That's why we believe a little gift can go a long way in showing your appreciation to any teacher.
We’ve put together some gift ideas for your teachers to show them how important they are. We spoke with dozens of educators and asked them what was on their wish lists. Without exception, they said they’re grateful for any gift — they are wonderful humans, after all — but when we nudged a bit, they shared what's on their wish list as well as some of their all-time favorite gifts. (Spoiler alert: Almost all of these teachers named an Amazon gift card first.) As a former teacher myself, I've also added a few picks of my own.
Update, Mar. 21, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability and added two new gift ideas to the list, the hand sanitizer spray trio and the electric lunch box.
This No. 1 bestseller is a smart gift for a smart teach — the Echo Dot works with Alexa and can function solo or with an existing system. See, you are clever.
Hand sanitizer is a classroom essential. And while they probably have a bottle or two of the generic stuff for their students to use, these trendy Touchland sprays are reserved just for them. They aren't sticky or overly drying, making them a little luxury that every teacher can — and will — enjoy. Bonus points if you pick up this tropical-scented trio, which will transport them to summer vacay.
Instead of wasting what little free time they have in front of the microwave, they can simply plug in this portable warmer at the start of their workday and enjoy a warm meal when the kids break for lunch. "It holds a good amount, heats my lunch well, and there is NO smell to fill the classroom while it heats up," one teacher gushed, adding that they keep the cord at school so they don't have to lug it back and forth.
Who wouldn't love a pair of these customizable, one-of-a-kind pine bookends? They're handmade by a pair of sisters in Memphis.
Where there are teachers, there are books — and a need for bookends. Choose two of their favorite quotable women to be featured on these unique pieces.
Keep this notepad sweet and simple, with a single initial, or amp it up with full name, bold colors and loads of extras.
Sarah, a middle-school teacher, was thrilled to receive "a personalized notepad." This simple, customizable notepad lets you decide whether to add initials, full name or both; lined or unlined. You choose the ink color!
We all know how powerful a cup of coffee can be in the morning. But sometimes, a lesson goes over a little too long and teachers forget to take a sip while the coffee is still hot.
This mug warmer comes with a longer cord for better mobility, and reviewers claim that it keeps their coffee warm for hours.
Just taking a few minutes to tend to your skin can really make a difference in how your morning goes. These jade rollers and gua sha tool are gentle against the skin, and they provide a nice cooling sensation that feels refreshing yet calming. Everything comes in a box for easy gifting.
Know someone obsessed with office supplies? These assorted sticky notes and tabbed folders will be perfect additions to your teacher’s desk.
As much as teachers love their students, they always enjoy a good laugh when they do something funny. For your teacher who loves reading, this hilarious book will give them something to smile about throughout the school year.
Even teachers like new school supplies. You choose the colors, design, and (of course) name in this set of notecards. This price reflects a set of 10.
Middle-school math teacher Sara says, “We’re always writing notes. I know that my teacher friends and I love to receive paper goods and personalized stationery.” The modern floral print peeking up from the bottom is subtle and sophisticated, and elevates any message. Customize the font color or go with classic black.
This is one of Oprah's fave gifts to give! Why? The white truffle oil, ripe chili peppers, organic agave and coriander combine beautifully to add a sweet, savory and spicy punch. Try it on tacos fried foods, and more.
“I think it’s important to have hobbies outside of work, so I can turn off and turn back on at a hundred percent,” says Coca, who’s a Montessori teacher. “My favorite thing to do is cook, so I like gourmet gifts.” Even if you don’t know anything about your teacher-recipient's culinary bent, a gourmet hot sauce is a can't-miss choice — it works on takeout just as well as homemade! This one is infused with truffle and coriander. And the packaging is so elegant, there’s no need for gift wrap.
Written by a teacher who was left breathless and forever changed by his time amid the redwoods, this Pulitzer Prize–winning novel may be just the inspirational tome they need.
Julie, a video art professor, is always happy to have a great read. An inspiring novel like Richard Powers' The Overstory, she says, offers "romance, drama and trees — a perfect combo." Katie added that something like Junichiro Tanizaki's essay on aesthetics, In Praise of Shadows, would be great for visual thinkers.
Or you could help them kick back and listen to all the books they like with an Audible gift membership.
The boxed lunch gets an upgrade with this topselling reusable lunch bag, available in 16 colors and patterns and two sizes. It's freezable too!
Meredith, a preschool teacher, told us: "A cool lunch bag would be an excellent gift!! Something large enough for your Tupperware" Easy to clean, insulated, leak-proof and water-proof, this sophisticated carrier looks great, keeps food fresh, and is large enough for lunch and then some A long strap makes it easy to carry crossbody on those multitasking mornings.
When they pop this on their window, the sun will make the crystal spin, projecting a sweet dance of colors onto the room.
As I was a preschool teacher, I treasured our classroom Kikkerland rainbow maker. The daily rainbows inspired wonder and conversation in the children each day and brightened my mood immensely.
"No Homework!" ... "Test Day!" ... "1 Day Until Break!" ... A light-up message board can really set the mood.
My 10-year-old is not yet a teacher (she plans to be), but she swore up and down that this is the gift her teacher absolutely, positively needs this year. We bought one and can't wait to gift her.
Teachers are world-class schleppers; how about a high-quality new carryall to replace the worn-out one they currently cart around? This water-resistant, faux suede tote is dependable and chic (I've tried it), and a fave of Oprah's, who's a teacher to us all.
“Since I’m constantly lugging things back and forth, I always need a new tote,” says Chris, a high school science teacher. They'll love this roomy beauty. It's even got RFID-protected card pockets!
If you're lucky enough to have an offbeat teacher, surprise them with this pair of pencil hoops from the Queen of Quirk Betsey Johnson. Art, math and writing teachers alike will get a kick out of these.
Preschool teacher Meredith told us, "I think teacher-themed gifts would be cool — if your teacher wears jewelry, there are cool things out there..."
Make a delicious and memorable sweet treat for everyone at school with this cookie-cutter set. Design adorable pencil, apple and notebook paper cookies and add your own special message on top.
Speaking of edibles... Sarah loved receiving "a personalized sugar cookie" from one of her middle school students. "It came with a handwritten note. He made a different cookie for each teacher." You and your child can make some for teachers for years to come with this cookie set!
A fantastic fruit-scented candle in a gorgeous mercury glass container, this decorous item reminds you to pause and savor the moment.
Linnea, a third-grade teacher, says: "One of the best gifts I have received were candles from Anthropologie (a personal favorite) — I love getting these because 1) They are expensive, 2) I feel like the students listened to me when something personal would come up in conversation and 3) It just shows that they care!" Well, at least they'll think it's expensive.
Fourth-grade teacher Leigh also says she’s obsessed with candles: “I can never have too many."
Plant-based and powerful, this cream is formulated to keep hands soft even after washing.
“My hands get really dry from touching papers all day,” says Barbara, a sixth-grade teacher. “I always love a nice-smelling lotion for my desk drawer.” Hydrating, clean and small enough to tuck away, this soothing hand cream delivers a spa moment anytime it’s called for.
Nothing says "decompression" like a cup of tea after a long day in the blackboard jungle. This set includes a double insulated cup, a dozen assorted blends from the folks at Twinings, and all-natural honey straws. We can hear the "Aaaah" from here!
Teacher Thomas says, "I could use some single-pack herbal tea...as winter approaches." We've got you, Teach, and then some. This set comes with everything they'll need to warm up and cool down. (Or, if you'd like to give them many weeks of sipping pleasure, try this gorgeous selection of 45 Pukka herbal teas, going for just $22.)
Treat tired after-hours tootsies with a reflexology sesh. It'll feel intense for the first two weeks, as the knobs stretch out tense soles. But the payoff can be big.
"Acupressure sandals!" says Todd, a college professor. "Teachers are on their feet all day, it's nice to get some relief." You may have to do a little detective work to get the size right, but it'll be worth it.
They deserve to relax after a long day. Diffuse the air with their favorite essential oils, while adding hydration, especially in these dry winter months with a little help from this topseller. Soothing light and aromatherapy will do wonders.
Grab a set of 100% pure essential oils to go with it, like these from Pure Aroma.
A laugh-out-loud funny workbook that might just get them through the entire year, by Jordan Reid and Jacqueline Ann May.
I gifted this refreshing activity book to all my daughter's teachers, and even her principal. Not to mention friend-teachers and neighbor-teachers. Each of the 133 pages feels like a therapy sesh with your funniest friend. There's a Teacher Appreciation Week mad-lib, an all-too-relatable "Things you never thought you'd say out loud" roundup and exercises such as "Draw the haircut of your off-duty dreams." The playful yet earnest “Mental Health Check-in" checklist weaves in coping strategies so deftly that the reader won't even notice they are getting help.
This six-pack of No. 1 bestselling steamers delivers just what they need, be it a morning boost or an end-of-day chill sesh.
Caitlyn, a seventh-grade teacher, says, “I’m really starting to get into aromatherapy.” Any hardworking teacher will enjoy steamy showerful of essential oils: This mix features eucalyptus and mint, citrus, lavender, jasmine, bergamot and chamomile scents.
Shortcut to a cozy, relaxing, restorative evening.
Fifth-grade teacher Kyisha says, “I really want a fuzzy robe. As soon as I get home, clothes come off and robe goes on.” Well, have we got a gift for her — and anyone one else who works super-hard and goes straight for the comfy clothes upon entering the home zone. Plush and cozy with an oversized hood, this beauty is like a gentle embrace from a huge teddy bear. In 19 colors and patterns, including animal prints. The men's version has even more options!
For a more playful take on the tote, consider one of the many styles of this bag. Made of eco-friendly cotton canvas, it's sturdy enough for books and groceries alike.
Anais, a high school Spanish teacher, shared: "One student gave me a Day of the Dead tote bag which was nice!" There are 28 styles to choose from here to suit a slew of interests. Perhaps tropical plants for your biology teacher, or a "Follow Your Dreams" sloth for the guidance counselor. For extra brownie points, add your own special words or images to this customizable number.
Coffee with just a touch of wine flavor? Talk about good to the last drop!
High school Spanish teacher David says, “ I love to get bottles of wine or something caffeine-related.” Not sure wine is approved at your school as a teacher gift? These coffee beans, aged in oak wine barrels for just a suggestion of the grape, are a unique (and alcohol-free) option for an elevated cup of coffee.
A water bottle that doubles as a Bluetooth speaker? That's some 007-level stuff there.
Yasmine, a kindergarten teacher, says, “I have snack time with the kids. A nice water bottle would be a good gift.” Well, Yasmine, this one might blow their minds. This speaker/water bottle lets you set the mood with say gentle classical or lively Spanish guitar music — or why not turn recess into a full-on dance party with some infectious African polyrhythms?
Help teachers get what they really need with an open-ended gift card. Amazon is a great choice because so many teacher wishes can be fulfilled here. Note: Almost every teacher we tapped said they wished for one of these!
Fran, a retired preschool teacher-researcher, has seen it all, but there's one gift, she said, that always helped. "I'm retired now, but the best gifts I've received were gift cards. Most parents don't know our personal lives, and it's hard for them to guess what we are interested in. So Amazon, Kroger, Starbucks, and Barnes & Noble gift cards were great." (These links are great for a physical card, but for a paperless, email-only gift go here: Amazon, Kroger, Starbucks and Barnes & Noble.)
Davilee, an elementary school teacher, agrees: "I always think gift cards are just awesome! Gift cards allow the person to choose what she/he wants."
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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