Here at Mortigo, we deal with hundreds of people moving house every year. And we know it can be a stressful time for everyone, so we’ve compiled a list of gifts that will be sure to make the ordeal of moving a distant memory (well, try to, but we don’t have a magic wand).
Fun fact: The term housewarming dates back to the 16th century, pre-dating central heating (obvs) whereby guests would bring items like firewood and build fires, essentially offering actual warmth to the house.
But, don’t fear, we understand that times have changed a little. Fast-forward to now, a typical housewarming gift should help the owners turn their four walls and a roof into a home. Whilst it is not customary to bring a gift if not invited to a housewarming party, we still think it’s a nice gesture to mark their new chapter, and it doesn’t have to break the bank.
Here are 14 traditional housewarming gifts handpicked by the Mortigo team paired with their symbolic meaning:
1. Bread – “May this house never know hunger.”
Perhaps a 3-month gift subscription to BakedIn’s Bread Baking Club is a more thoughtful option than a loave of Warburtons…
£36.00
2. Wine – “May you always have joy and never go thirsty.”
At the higher end of the price range, why not opt for a bottle of Moët & Chandon encased in a metal gift box which can be customised with a name, moving in date or their new address!
From £52.00
3. Rice – “May the love in your home multiply.”
Don’t worry, we aren’t suggesting you turn up with a pouch of microwave rice, instead, why not opt for storage jars to fill their pantry, much like these Glass Jars with Bamboo Lids from Amazon.
£27.99
4. Sugar or Honey – “May your life be filled with sweetness.”
Unless you’re buying a gift for beekeepers, we suggest keeping the hive idea up your sleeve. Instead, look for local honey in a farm shop or deli, or if all else fails, M&S are on hand with their ‘The Great Honey Tasting Experience’ gift box.
£15.00
5. Herbs & Spices – “May there always be flavour and spice in your life.”
For first time buyers, the cost of stocking up their spice and condiment rack might make them consider remortgaging… but with Just Spice’s Starter Set they’ll get 7 really tasty spice mixes to prepare their favourite dishes.
£34.92
6. Olive Oil – “May you always be blessed with health and well-being.”
If your housewarming hosts enjoy cooking then they’ll know the value of good olive oil. Why not opt for a ProCook Oil & Vinegar Pourer (cruet for the posh folk) and high quality accompanying oil & vinegar.
£9.00
7. Coin – “May you dwell in good fortune.”
One of the most ‘traditional’ options on our list is this lucky sixpence available from Etsy. The real British lucky sixpence comes with a lovely message and is designed to be hidden in a secret place to bring health, love and abundance.
£14.00
8. Knives – “May always be protected from intruders.”
Protect their home from intruders in other ways, might we suggest getting them started with a Ring Video Doorbell: See, hear and speak to visitors from anywhere.
From £89.99
Please make no mistake, we’re not expressing that you protect yours or your friend’s home with knives.
9. Candle – “May you always have light through the darkest times.”
As well as filling them home with light, add scent and positive energy with this candle from Aery Living. Or alternatively, make it their happy space with this one. (P.S. you can never have too many candles).
£27.00
10. Plants – “May your home always be filled with life.”
Not able to get to see your mate’s new home but still want to send them something? Bloom and Wild’s Letterbox plants are the perfect solution. From Roses to meadows, your friends will be chuffed with the new life you’ve breathed into their home!
From £27.00.
11. Wood – “May your home have stability, harmony, and peace.”
We aren’t suggesting you turn up with a bundle of kindling (unless you really want to), but instead, why not personalize a chopping board (or cheeseboard), much like this Oak one from Not on the Highstreet.
£35.00
12. Broom – “May your house always be clean and free of evil spirits.”
Arguably the most controversial gift, the broom could be taken offensively so be sure to let them know you don’t think their house is dirty!! Either opt for a kitchen witch with broom talisman for the more spiritual amongst your friends or a simple dustpan and brush for the clean-a-holics.
£8.50
13. Coal – “May you always be warm.”
I mean, we can’t even think off the top of our head where to purchase coal… So if this is the message and sentiment you want to go with, might we suggest warming their hands and filling their tummies with Classic Edition Gourmet Marshmallow Toasting Gift Set. A great gift for the whole family to enjoy.
£19.00
14. Horseshoe – “May you have happiness and good luck.”
Wish your friends and family happiness and luck with this calligraphy traditional iron horseshoe which can be personalised with dates, names and addresses.
£25.00
Got a better housewarming gift idea? Send us an email or get in touch on socials.
