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Gender Neutral Gifts For Adults [TOP PICKS]

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Gift-giving is an art, and whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or any special occasion, finding the perfect gift can feel like both a joy and a challenge. When it comes to choosing gifts for adults, particularly those who may identify as gender-neutral or non-binary, the task can be even more nuanced. The traditional gendered approach to gifting (think: pink for girls, blue for boys) is evolving as society becomes more aware and accepting of diverse identities. If you’re here because you want to make sure your gifts are thoughtful, considerate, and truly aligned with the recipient’s preferences, you’re in the right place!

Today, we’ll explore:

  • Buyer Guide for Gender-Neutral Gifts for Adults: Navigating beyond the “gendered” aisle of gifts.
  • How to Learn What Someone Really Wants: Because it’s not just about picking something pretty.
  • Top Gift-Giving Errors to Watch Out For: To ensure you avoid those well-meaning but cringeworthy missteps.
  • Best Places to Shop for Gifts: Whether online or brick-and-mortar, where to find truly inclusive presents.
  • Conclusion: Wrapping it up with key takeaways to help you gift confidently.

Let’s dive into this gift-giving journey with a keen eye for detail and a heart full of intention.

10 Gender Neutral Gifts For Adults

1. Scented Candles

Scented candles make for an incredibly versatile gift option. Their soft glow and calming fragrances can be enjoyed by anyone, no matter their gender. The beauty of candles is in their personalization – you can choose from a variety of scents, from earthy and woodsy to light and floral, making them a perfect neutral gift. Plus, they create a cozy atmosphere that appeals to just about anyone. If you’re looking for something that feels luxurious without being too flashy, a high-quality candle is a fantastic choice that suits all tastes.

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2. Wall Art

Art is an incredible gift because it’s personal yet not tied to any specific gender. When choosing wall art, the key is picking something that speaks to universal tastes – think minimalist designs, abstract art, or inspirational quotes. A well-chosen piece of wall art can brighten up any space and bring a sense of warmth and personality to a room. Whether it’s a serene landscape or an energizing abstract print, wall art works as a great option for everyone, regardless of gender.

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3. Board Games & Puzzles

Board games and puzzles are gifts that encourage connection, making them perfect for any occasion. These products offer hours of entertainment for all kinds of people – whether they enjoy strategic games, cooperative games, or simple puzzle-solving. Gender neutral in every sense, games help bring people together, providing both fun and mental stimulation. Plus, with so many different themes and styles available, it’s easy to find one that appeals to everyone on your gift list, making it a universally thoughtful choice.

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4. Reusable Drinkware

Who doesn’t love a sleek, eco-friendly water bottle or coffee tumbler? Reusable drinkware is a fantastic gender-neutral gift that combines practicality with style. Whether it’s a durable stainless steel water bottle for outdoor enthusiasts or a trendy insulated tumbler for those who love their coffee on the go, it’s a gift that’s sure to be used daily. It’s sustainable, practical, and thoughtful – three qualities that make it a winner for just about anyone.

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5. Portable Bluetooth Speakers

A portable Bluetooth speaker is a gift that almost everyone will appreciate. Whether it’s used for a quiet evening at home or for an impromptu outdoor gathering, the ability to play music or podcasts from anywhere is something that appeals to all. With sleek designs and high-quality sound, these speakers are as functional as they are stylish. Plus, they’re available in a variety of colors, allowing for personalization without focusing on any particular gender. It’s a great gift for those who love music and tech in equal measure.

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6. Comfy Throw Blankets

A cozy throw blanket is a gift that everyone can enjoy. Perfect for curling up on the couch, watching a movie, or reading a book, these blankets come in a range of textures, colors, and sizes. Whether you opt for a soft fleece or a luxurious knitted throw, it’s the perfect way to add warmth and comfort to anyone’s home. Best of all, these throws don’t lean towards any specific gender, making them a universally appreciated gift choice.

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7. Gourmet Snack Baskets

Food is always a great way to bring people together, and gourmet snack baskets are an ideal choice for a gender-neutral gift. These baskets often feature a variety of treats that appeal to different tastes, from savory to sweet. Whether it’s artisanal chocolates, fresh fruits, or unique chips, the combination of snacks is a thoughtful gift that works for just about anyone. Perfect for those who enjoy a little indulgence or a delightful surprise, it’s a gift that never goes out of style.

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8. Eco-Friendly Home Goods

In today’s world, more people are turning to sustainable and eco-friendly products, making them a fantastic gift choice. Eco-friendly home goods – from bamboo kitchenware to reusable produce bags – are not only thoughtful but also practical. These products promote sustainability while adding a stylish touch to any home. Whether it’s a set of compostable straws or a biodegradable cleaning product kit, these gifts work well for individuals who care about the planet and want to make greener choices.

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9. Tech Accessories

Tech accessories are a universal gift choice, offering practicality, style, and innovation. Whether it’s a sleek phone case, a functional charging dock, or a set of wireless earphones, these accessories enhance the tech that everyone already uses. They’re great for people who are always on their phones or looking for ways to improve their daily tech use. Plus, tech accessories come in a variety of designs, colors, and styles that make them a truly gender-neutral gift.

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10. Books & Journals

Books are one of the most timeless, gender-neutral gifts you can give. Whether you’re gifting a beautiful coffee table book, a motivational read, or a journal to jot down thoughts and dreams, it’s something that can be enjoyed by anyone. Books are an escape, a source of inspiration, or a way to learn something new – no matter the genre. Journals, on the other hand, provide a personal and reflective space for writing and creativity, making them an equally thoughtful option.

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Buyer Guide For Gender Neutral Gifts For Adults

When you’re shopping for gender-neutral gifts, you’re really looking for presents that transcend the typical gender stereotypes. The best gifts in this category are versatile, practical, and, most importantly, reflect the personality and preferences of the recipient rather than leaning into traditional gendered norms. Here’s how to navigate this challenge with ease:

Key Characteristics Of Gender-Neutral Gifts

  • Neutral Color Palette: Look for gifts that come in colors that aren’t strongly associated with any particular gender. Think deep greens, grays, earthy tones, pastels, or metallics like silver and gold. These can be universally appealing and don’t lock the gift into stereotypical boundaries.
  • Functional & Practical: Many people appreciate gifts that serve a practical purpose in their everyday life. Instead of focusing on gendered interests, think about what the person needs, uses daily, or would appreciate for their home, work, or personal care routine.
  • Creative and Unique: If you’re looking for something special, consider artsy gifts, DIY kits, or unique experiences that are about exploration and creativity rather than fitting into a gendered mold. Gifts like these tend to be more personal and thoughtful.
  • Inclusive or Customizable: Gifts that allow for personalization (custom engraving, bespoke options, etc.) or include a universal theme-like sustainability, self-care, or mindfulness-work well for gender-neutral gifting.

Great Gender-Neutral Gift Ideas

  • Home decor: Minimalist art prints, scented candles, cozy blankets, or stylish planters. These work in nearly every space and style, offering warmth without adhering to gendered color schemes.
  • Tech accessories: Think phone cases, portable chargers, or Bluetooth speakers that come in modern, sleek designs that appeal to everyone.
  • Books: Whether it’s a novel, a coffee table book, or a self-improvement guide, books are always a great choice. Choose something that reflects the person’s taste in genre or lifestyle.
  • Subscription Services: A subscription box to a service like meal kits, skincare, coffee, or even meditation apps. It’s a gift that keeps giving and shows you care about their interests.
  • Gourmet food or drinks: Artisanal chocolate, a fine bottle of wine, a gourmet coffee set, or even a plant-based snack box-something that can be universally enjoyed.

How To Learn What Someone Really Wants

Now that we know how to shop for gender-neutral gifts, the next big hurdle is figuring out what the person really wants. Gifting isn’t just about choosing something nice; it’s about showing that you understand and appreciate the recipient. So, how do you discover their desires without asking directly? Here are some strategies:

Pay Attention To Their Hobbies And Interests

  • Observe and Listen: Whether it’s in casual conversation or through social media posts, people often drop hints about what they enjoy or need. Maybe they’ve posted about loving a particular kind of music, sport, or hobby. These small details can guide your choices.
  • Look at What They Already Have: If you’re unsure about something they may like, look at their current possessions. This could be in their home, office, or even on their social media. For example, if they’re always posting about gardening, a unique plant or gardening tools would be a hit.
  • Ask Their Inner Circle: If you’re really in doubt, don’t be afraid to reach out to close friends or family. They might have a much clearer sense of what your recipient would enjoy and can offer valuable insights.

Ask The Right Questions

  • Be Specific: If you’re trying to be subtle, ask about things that could help narrow down your options. For instance, ’What”s your go-to way to relax on weekends”? could provide insight into hobbies, whether it’s reading, outdoor activities, or cooking.
  • Gauge Interests through Shared Experiences: If you’re part of the same social circle, you might have already shared activities that reveal personal tastes. Maybe they’ve mentioned wanting to go to a certain event or trying out a new fitness trend. These are perfect opportunities for you to act on.

Utilize Technology

  • Wishlists: Some people create wish lists on sites like Amazon, Etsy, or even Pinterest. If they have one, take advantage of it!
  • Gift Registry Sites: If they’re about to celebrate a big life event (like moving into a new home, graduating, or celebrating a milestone), many people now opt for online registries. Checking these could be the key to understanding exactly what they want.

Top Gift-Giving Errors To Watch Out For

No one wants to give a gift that falls flat. Here are some common gifting mistakes to avoid to ensure your present is well-received:

Choosing Gifts Based Solely On What You Like

  • It’s tempting to pick something that you love, but the recipient’s taste should be front and center. A gift should reflect their personality and needs, not just your preferences.

Ignoring Practicality

  • Sure, it’s fun to get someone something quirky and fun, but if it has no real use in their life, it’s likely going to collect dust. Think about how practical your gift is in relation to their day-to-day routine.

Overemphasizing Gendered Products

  • As we’ve already discussed, gendered gifts are increasingly less popular, so avoid falling back on traditional choices like pink perfume sets or sports jerseys with a stereotypical male/female twist.

Forgetting Presentation

  • A gift is about more than just the object; it’s about the experience. Don’t forget the packaging! A beautiful wrapping or a heartfelt card can make a huge difference in how the gift is received.

Being Too Generic

  • While gift cards are convenient, they can also come off as impersonal. Try to pick something that shows you put thought and care into the decision. Even a simple yet meaningful gift is better than something generic and forgettable.

Best Places To Shop For Gifts

Now, let’s talk about where to shop for these fabulous gender-neutral gifts. Whether you’re shopping online or in-person, there are great options that cater to a wide variety of tastes and preferences:

Online

  • Etsy: The perfect marketplace for unique, handmade, and customizable gifts. You can find anything from personalized home décor to quirky accessories and meaningful art.
  • Uncommon Goods: Known for its thoughtful, often quirky gifts, this website offers a great range of items that can be perfect for any occasion, especially gender-neutral choices.
  • Amazon: A go-to for nearly everything under the sun, Amazon offers a variety of items across multiple categories, and you can filter for gender-neutral gift options.
  • Urban Outfitters: Although it’s a lifestyle brand, Urban Outfitters often has a huge selection of gifts that can cater to all personalities with a trendy, youthful vibe.
  • Target: Don’t sleep on Target! They offer tons of gender-neutral, affordable, and stylish gifts that work for any adult.

In-store

  • Nordstrom: Great for finding upscale, gender-neutral gift options ranging from fashion to home goods.
  • The Container Store: If you know someone who’s into organizing or home improvement, this is your place for stylish, practical, and neutral gifts.
  • Independent Bookstores: A visit to a local bookstore can offer a personalized touch, where you can find books and items that feel unique and tailored to the person.

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