What not to get mom this year

Everyone has a shareable gift list around this time of year, but there's also a "no thanks" list in the back of our minds as well. In order to shorten the return lines on Dec. 26, I asked Restored moms in the workplace what's on their "no thank you" list.

Posted 11:00 a.m. Dec 12, 2022 — Updated 4:47 p.m. Dec 12, 2022

Stephanie Llorente

, WRAL contributor

RALEIGH, N.C. — Everyone has a shareable gift list around this time of year, but there’s also a “no thanks” list in the back of our minds as well. In order to shorten the return lines on Dec. 26, I asked Restored moms in the workplace what’s on their “no thank you” list.

These were the most common responses:

Another Coffee Mug – Coffee is what gives us life, so trust us when we tell you that we already have plenty of these. Instead, opt for the coffee mug warmer or a gift card to a local coffee shop.
Loud Children’s Toys – If you gift a mother anything, gift her silence…or at least something with a volume control!
Serving Platters – For those who entertain, they likely have decorative serving items they enjoy using. The exception here is if the platter holds sentimental value. If it belonged to grandma, gift it anyway.
Kitchen Gadgets – If it says “As Seen on TV” please leave it on the store shelf. These are the regifts and returns that clog the lives of the working mom after the holidays are over. Instead, try gifting a new wine stopper.
Blankets – I didn’t understand this one at first because I love a good blanket, but then I opened my linen closet and immediately understood the storage issue when you have one too many. This should be given on an “as requested” basis.
Items that Contribute to Clutter – Figurines, picture frames. candles and other unrequested decorative items fit into this category. If your loved one is a minimalist or very Type A, please pay attention to this one.
Cleaning Supplies – No mops, no vacuums, no magic microfiber towels. The end.
Gift Cards I’ll Use on Someone Else – This was the most interesting feedback I received in our poll. Gift cards can be a great option if you know the person you’re giving it to frequents the shop the cards is from. But, if it’s not a place they shop often, ditch the gift card because that mama will absolutely spend it on someone else…or forget to use it altogether.
Anything That Creates More Work for Me – Career-minded moms are already busy. If your gift requires their time, extra brain power or in any way incites a riot from their children, avoid it at all costs. Examples include, but are not limited to: games with small pieces for tiny children, science kits that require constant adult supervision and experiential gifts that require time, travel or additional cash.