Non-Cliché Gifts For Teachers, Because They Deserve Our Appreciation More Than Ever

Teachers work way beyond classroom hours, and that often requires staying caffeinated. So what better gift for a teacher than a bag of gourmet coffee beans? Koffee Kult’s organically sourced, fair trade coffee beans have a whopping 4k+ reviews on Amazon and nearly a 5-star rating. Says one happy reviewer, “Liked it so much, I have already ordered another bag so we will not run out.”

This is the perfect gift for the teacher in your life with a sense of humor. Each page features “teacher curse words” like “darn,” “oh for Pete’s sake” or the F-word: “fiddlesticks.” It’s cheeky and fun, but adult coloring books are also a proven way to de-stress, which is something all teachers could use.

Yes candles are a “common” gift, but there’s a reason they’re a perennial favorite: everybody loves ‘em! People typically don’t buy fancy candles for themselves, and that’s why they make such a great gift. This “new job” scented candle (it’s actually cinnamon and cedarwood-scented) is perfect for any teacher who just started at a new school.

Instead of a mug (something teachers typically have plenty of), consider this S’well water bottle. S’well is known for its sleek design and the fact that it keeps beverages cold for up to 41 hours and hot for up to 18. With well over 2k Amazon reviews and nearly a 5-star rating, it’s the perfect sustainable gift for a teacher.

We could all use a little more self-care in our lives, and teachers are no exception. This pack of face masks is affordable at just over $13, and the fun packaging makes it feel extra “gift-y.” Also, a reminder that self-care gifts are beloved by both male and female teachers. You can give this face mask set to any teacher who could use a bit of relaxation!

Teachers spend all day on their feet, so a foot massager clearly makes an ideal gift. This particular machine is about $100, so it may be over the limit depending on your school’s gifting policy. But if you’re buying this as a gift for a family member or friend who is a teacher (not your child’s teacher), then you can spend outside that limit if you’d like, of course. Says one happy reviewer, “My feet constantly ache. This machine has taken care of that. I plan on using this daily, amazing purchase!”

Everybody could always use an extra tote bag, especially teachers. And this pretty Kate Spade bag would make a particularly perfect gift for an English teacher. The illustration features literary classics like “Gulliver’s Travels” and “Pride and Prejudice.”

A set of succulent plants is the perfect desk decoration gift because they’re super easy to care for. Says one happy reviewer about this set, “These are so cute I actually ordered more once I got my first package! They look exactly like the picture. Would definitely recommend.”

Sure, teachers have thousands of notebooks, but do they have a notebook that looks like a pile of sprinkles? We think not. While you’re at it, you can also order something cute and tasty like this “Champagne” bottle full of gold marble chocolates for $15.

This 5-in-1 essential oil diffuser also serves as a humidifier, and although it might be muggy now, fall always brings dry weather along with it, and nothing feels more relaxing and spa-like than a humidifier/essential oil diffuser that infuses your room with aromas like lavender, eucalyptus, and more.

Everyone loves a cheeky, fun sweater. Especially this one, because it’s true — teaching really ain’t for punks. This particular sweater comes in a ton of colors, but Etsy also has great teacher-themed sweaters, hoodies, and T-shirts, whether you’re gifting this to your music teacher or P.E. teacher.