gave

The gift for the person who has everything

Short answer: If the recipient has everything, the gift should be something that gets used up. Socks, towels and bedding wear out and need replacing, however much someone already owns.

Consumables over things

Socks and towels wear out and need replacing at regular intervals. That is why they are never superfluous, even for someone who has everything else. An object for the shelf needs a place and often just sits there, while a consumable gets used, washed and eventually replaced again.

Socks

A pack of socks in a neutral colour gets worn, even by someone who does not want anything. Choose matching pairs so they are easy to pair after washing, and stick to black, grey or navy. If you do not know the shoe size, ask someone who does. See all bamboo socks for men.

Towels

Most people have too few towels, and many of them are old and stiff. A couple of new soft towels is a gift that gets noticed every morning. Choose a neutral colour so they fit in the bathroom, and ideally both large and small ones. See bamboo towels.

Bedding

One more set of bedding makes everyday life easier, because you can change without waiting for the laundry. Even someone who has everything uses the same set again and again, and a new soft set is noticed every evening. Check the duvet size before you buy. See bamboo bedding.

An upgrade rather than something new

A better version of something the recipient already uses every day often works better than something completely new. The new thing requires a change of habits, while the upgrade fits straight in. Think about what gets used the most, and find a softer or longer lasting version of it.

Gift card

If you are still unsure, a gift card is the answer. It lets the recipient choose what needs replacing, and it is rarely left unused. Combine it with a small parcel so there is something to open. Find more suggestions in Christmas gift ideas.

Ask what is worn out

The easiest way around it is to ask what needs replacing. It is rarely something new that is missing, but something old that needs replacing. Ask a partner or a family member if you want to keep the surprise. See home and homewear in bamboo.

Several of the same

If you give socks, give several pairs of the same style rather than different pairs. That way the recipient can replace a whole stack at once and does not have to search the drawer for the right pair. The same goes for towels, where matching colours look calmer.

Wrap it like a gift

A consumable can easily feel like a last minute idea if it is handed over in the shop bag. Wrap it properly and add a few words about why you chose it. That makes it clear the gift has been thought through and was not just bought on the way.