What to bring as a housewarming gift to relatives and friends: unique ideas, good and bad omens  

We have already written about when it is better to move into a new house and what to do in a new place. Now we'll tell you what you can give as a housewarming gift and what omens exist in this regard.

What to give for a housewarming party in an apartment   

We offer you several ideas, categorized by different interests and needs. 

Practical gifts:

• Essentials: a practical and valuable gift can be a beautiful set of towels, a cozy plaid, or a versatile kitchen appliance such as a multicooker or deep fryer.
• Storage bins: Help your new housemates organize their new space with stylish storage bins, a decorative shelving unit, or a compact shoe rack.
• Cleaning supplies: A starter kit of cleaning supplies, including a vacuum cleaner, dustpan, and broom, can be a useful gift.
• A tool kit: A basic tool kit with essentials such as a screwdriver, hammer, and pliers can be useful for DIY projects and minor repairs. 
• A set for growing or caring for plants: alternatively, you can give a beautiful indoor plant and the tools to care for it. 

Gifts for entertainment and recreation:

• Subscription to streaming services will allow your friends to watch their favorite series, movies, and shows in good quality and without commercials. 
• Board games or puzzles will provide plenty of sit-downs and cozy evenings in your new apartment. 
• Candles or diffusers with essential oils will help create a soothing atmosphere.
• A gift certificate for a massage or spa day will help newcomers relax and unwind.
• Books or a subscription to their favorite publications. 
• Impressions, such as tickets to a concert, theater performance, or sporting event.

What to bring for a housewarming gift for a private home   

Here are some ideas for housewarming gifts for a home:

• Smart home devices: a smart speaker, smart thermostat, or smart lighting system. 
• Outdoor lighting: solar-powered street lights, string lights, or motion-sensor lights for increased security.
• Home security system: video cameras and a set of smart door locks for added security.
• Gardening tools for landscaping the area around the house.
• Grill, portable barbecue, and fire bowl for outdoor recreation.
• Outdoor furniture, hammocks, and swings.
• A set of dishes, wine glasses, and accessories for a home bar. 
• A gift certificate to a home improvement store. 
• A custom piece of art or decor item. 
• A gift certificate for professional home cleaning services. 

Housewarming gift ideas for relatives

Here's what you can give as housewarming gifts to your relatives. 

Personalized items:

• A personalized doormat with the housewarming family's names or a warm greeting. 
• An original cutting board or kitchen utensil. 
• Customized wall art or family photo frame.

Kitchen essentials:

• Quality cookware or baking molds. 
• Stylish and functional kitchen gadgets.
• A set of quality kitchen towels or oven mitts.

Home decor:

• Houseplants or a stylish vase. 
• Cozy plaids or decorative pillows. 
• Paintings or other artwork.

Practical items

• A toolbox or tool kit. 
• A fire extinguisher or first aid kit. 
• Quality cleaning products or a robot vacuum cleaner.

Food and drink: 

• A gourmet gift basket with snacks or chocolates. 
• A selection of fine wines or spirits. 
• A quality coffee maker or tea set.

Smart home devices:

• A smart thermostat or lighting system. 
• A voice assistant.
• A smart home security system. 

Housewarming gift ideas for friends

Choosing a housewarming gift for friends depends on your budget, their interests, and the style of their new home. Here are some ideas:

• Items that will help them decorate their new home, such as a beautiful vase or piece of art.
• A gift that will help them be organized, such as a set of storage containers or a planner.
• Things that will help them relax in their new home, such as a scented candle, bathrobe, or massage oil.
• Something very personal and carefully thought out, such as a gift certificate to their favorite store, a concert ticket to their favorite band or artist, etc.

What to give as a housewarming gift: good omens

Here are some traditional housewarming gifts that are considered good omens:

• Bread is a symbol of hospitality and sustenance. It is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the home.
• Salt is a sign of purification and purity. Legends say that it drives away evil spirits and protects the house from negative energy.
• Plants are a symbol of life and growth. 
• Candles are a symbol of light and warmth. 
• Fruit is a sign of fertility and abundance.
• Flowers represent beauty and happiness. 
• Herbs have various magical properties, such as protection, purification, and good luck. 
• Crystals. They are believed to have healing and protective properties, bringing good luck, positive energy, and balance into the home.

What is better not to give at a housewarming party: bad omens

Of course, some items are considered bad omens. Here are some housewarming gifts that should be avoided:

• Sharp objects. Items such as knives are believed to symbolize conflict and discord in the family. 
• Empty purses are considered a symbol of financial hardship and poverty.
• Clocks are associated with the passage of time and mortality. 
• Mirrors are often associated with superstitions and beliefs about the spirit world. Giving them to new homeowners can raise fears that they will attract negative energy or unwanted spirits into the home.
• Pearls are sometimes associated with sadness, tears, and unhappiness. 
• Candle holders without candles are considered incomplete, lacking warmth and light.
• Dead plants or flowers are obvious symbols of decay and death. 
• Items with religious or political symbols can be controversial. 
• Personal items or clothing are generally considered too intimate and private for a housewarming gift. Giving them as gifts can make the homeowners feel awkward or obligated to wear or use them.
• Pets are a big responsibility that isn't right for everyone. Gifting a pet without the consent of the homeowners is a serious decision that should not be taken lightly.

How to choose a housewarming gift: tips

Here are some tips to help you choose a practical and valuable gift:

• Consider the housewarming guests' lifestyle and interests: think about their hobbies, preferences, and how they use their living space. If they love to cook, a new kitchen appliance or cookbook is a great choice. For those who like to host parties, a set of barware would be appropriate.
• Pay attention to the decor and overall aesthetic of their new home. If they have a modern style, a minimalist gift would be appropriate.
• Personalize the gift. This can make the gift even more meaningful. Consider engraving their initials on kitchen utensils or creating a personalized gift basket filled with their favorite treats.
• Choose something practical and useful. New homeowners often have a lot of expenses, so a gift that can be used in the new home will always be appreciated. Practical items such as kitchenware or home décor items will come in handy.
• Think about your budget. Housewarming gifts don't necessarily have to be expensive. A thoughtful gift, regardless of the price, is sure to be appreciated. If you're on a tight budget, consider a homemade gift, a gift card to their favorite store, or a plant or flowers to decorate their new space.
• Present the gift thoughtfully. Take the time to wrap the gift beautifully and write a personalized note with congratulations and best wishes.

Here are some additional tips for choosing a housewarming gift:

• If you're not sure of the housewarming party's style or preferences, a gift card to a home improvement store is always a win-win.
• Entertaining enthusiasts will appreciate a set of barware, a cheese board, or a wine decanter.
• If they have a backyard or patio, a grill, outdoor furniture, or gardening tools will be a nice addition.
• For home decor lovers, a scented candle, vase, or plaid will be a nice touch.