10 Cheap Office Christmas Gift Ideas: Creative & Affordable Presents Your Coworkers Will Love

Last year, one of my colleagues gifted me a mug that said, "This might be wine." It was hilarious, affordable, and honestly one of the most-used items on my desk! That’s when I realized — the best office Christmas gifts don’t have to be expensive, they just need a touch of personality. Over more than a decade of designing workspaces and planning office events, I’ve learned that small, thoughtful items can brighten the office energy just as much as big-ticket gifts. And in this list, I’m sharing 10 wallet-friendly ideas that deliver big smiles.

1. Customized Coffee Mugs

You can never go wrong with a sturdy, quirky coffee mug. Custom designs with inside jokes or funny quotes are perfect for personal touch. Just ensure the print quality is good — no one likes peeling graphics.

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2. Desk Plants

Mini succulents or low-maintenance desk plants not only look cute but also help improve air quality. The tricky part? Making sure they’re hardy enough for the office lighting.

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3. Scented Candles

While not everyone can burn candles at work, they make for cozy home desk vibes. Go for subtle, universally loved scents like vanilla or fresh linen. I once paired them with a simple desk layout refresh idea for a coworker and it worked like magic.

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4. Fun Stationery Sets

Think colorful sticky notes, patterned notepads, or sleek pens. They’re functional, and every time your teammate writes a note, they’ll think of you.

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5. Reusable Water Bottles

Opt for BPA-free bottles with a modern design. Some even come with daily water reminders printed on the side — hydration with style.

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6. Cozy Throw Blankets

The office can get chilly in winter. A soft, lightweight throw blanket adds warmth and also doubles as a stylish chair accessory. I once placed throws in an office lounge I styled using an interactive space layout — instant upgrade.

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7. Gourmet Hot Chocolate Kits

Include premium cocoa mix, marshmallows, and maybe a small whisk. Delicious, fun, and perfect for cold afternoons.

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8. Personalized Mouse Pads

They don’t cost much but can make someone’s workspace feel truly theirs. Just make sure the surface texture works with different mouse types.

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9. DIY Snack Jars

Layer colorful candies, trail mix, or granola in a glass jar. Tie with a ribbon and you’ve got an instant festive treat. I’ve even planned snack jar stations for teams using an open lounge arrangement to boost morale.

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10. Mini Desk Games

From small puzzles to desktop basketball hoops, they’re a fun mental break during work hours. Bonus — you’ll probably catch your gift in action during lunch breaks.

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FAQ

1. What’s a good budget for office Christmas gifts?

Usually $5–$20 per person works well for casual office gift exchanges without breaking the bank.

2. How can I make cheap gifts feel more personal?

Add customized packaging, personal notes, or inside jokes to make even simple gifts feel special.

3. Are food items a good idea for coworkers?

Yes, but be mindful of potential allergies or dietary preferences.

4. How do I choose gifts in a diverse workplace?

Pick neutral items like plants, mugs, or stationery that suit various tastes and cultures.

5. Should I wrap office Christmas gifts?

Absolutely. Even inexpensive gifts feel upgraded with creative wrapping or fabric pouches.

6. How early should I buy office gifts?

Start at least a few weeks before the holidays to avoid shipping delays and last-minute stress.

7. Is it okay to give the same gift to multiple coworkers?

Yes, especially if it’s a crowd-pleaser like coffee mugs or snack jars. Just avoid anything too personal.

8. Where can I find cheap and creative office gift ideas?

You can check local markets, craft stores, or online DIY inspiration platforms — even Pinterest is great for this.