The Ultimate Clutter-Free Gift Guide For Teachers

Clutter-Free Gift Guide

Just when I thought I had gift shopping tackled (in the first week of December, no less), I dropped my kid off for Kindergarten this morning only to realize that I had totally forgotten about the very-much-deserving teacher gifts. Enter expletive here.

As a professional organizer, I pride myself on being on top of most things, but this one slipped through the cracks. As I thought through different gift ideas, I came to the realization that good ol’ Mrs. W was set to receive upwards of two dozen gifts from her little ones – in what was sure to be an array of bath bombs, coffee mugs, and chocolate. Although well-intentioned, this poor woman was going to be hit with a major clutter bomb.

7 Clutter-Free Gift Ideas For Teachers

My home organizer brain went to work. There had to be better gift ideas for educational rockstars that wouldn’t set their home ablaze in clutter.

And with that, here’s what I’ve come up with – introducing The Ultimate Clutter-Free Gift Guide: Teacher’s Edition.

Clutter-Free Gift Idea #1: Tea + Organizer

Instead of a single pretty box of tea, take those tea bags out and add them to an organizer made for tea. This baby from mDesign is perfect for displaying your tea bags and locking in flavor. It’s seriously two gifts in one.

Tea Organizer

Clutter-Free Gift Idea #2: Flowers With A Twist

I’m stealing this idea from a fellow mom who did this at school today and my jaw dropped in amazement. Pick up a couple dozen flowers. Instead of having your child give this ginormous bundle him or herself (which I’m sure they’d love!), hand a flower to each student as they line up for school. Have each child hand the flower to their teacher as they enter the classroom and watch the teacher beam with happiness as they collect their massive bouquet. As a great bonus, this makes sure that every child gets a chance to participate in the gift-giving experience.

Clutter-Free Gift Idea #3: Experiences

With minimalism all the rage, give Mrs. W a memory that will last far longer than a box of chocolates. Think gift cards for a local restaurant, coffee shop, holiday light show or anything that will help her decompress after a long school week.

teacher gift_gift card

Clutter-Free Gift Idea #4: Books

Never underestimate the power of a good book for the classroom. Many teachers have book wish list from the school’s annual book fair. Get your hands on it and give a gift that you know Mrs. W (and her students) will love.

Teacher Gift Idea: Grumpy Monkey

Clutter-Free Gift Idea #5: Arts + Crafts

Since joining the public school system, I’ve come to realize just how much money teachers spend out of pocket to keep their classrooms running. Pitch in by buying arts and craft supplies that you know your child’s classroom is in shortage of. It’s not as glamorous as other items but it will definitely be appreciated.

teacher gift_art supplies

Clutter-Free Gift Idea #6: Donate

It goes without saying that teachers have a deep love for kids. Help extend that love to other youngsters by donating to a children’s foundation in their name. Places like a local boys and girls club, children’s hospital or more global-oriented organizations are a great place to start.

teacher gift_gift card

Clutter-Free Gift Idea #7: Organizing Products

I wouldn’t be doing my job as a professional home organizer if I didn’t mention organizing products! If you occasionally volunteer in the classroom, go on a sleuthing expedition the next time you’re there. It could be that Mrs. W would benefit from drawer organizers to keep her endless collection of grading pens and stickers in order. Or maybe a desktop organizer is just what she needs to keep paper piles more sane. Make them colorful to match the classroom decor.

So if you’re like me and still searching for that perfect teacher gift, delete the cheesy “teaching is my superpower” mug and chocolates from your Instacart and start thinking clutter-free. Mrs. W will thank you.

Shop The Look

Tea Organizer
Teacher Gift Idea: Grumpy Monkey

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