Secret Santa is a beloved holiday tradition in many workplaces, offering a fun, festive way to connect with coworkers. But finding the right gift—especially something thoughtful, appropriate, and within budget—can be tricky.
Whether you’re buying for a boss, teammate, or someone you barely know, this guide has you covered. From practical office gadgets to funny mugs and cozy desk accessories, here are the best Secret Santa ideas for work in 2025.
What Is Secret Santa at Work?
Secret Santa is a gift exchange where employees draw names anonymously and give each other small gifts—usually with a set budget (e.g., $10–$30). It’s designed to:
- Encourage team bonding
- Add fun to the holiday season
- Create a surprise element with anonymous gifting
It’s festive, inclusive, and ideal for both remote and in-person teams!
Secret Santa Gift Guidelines for Workplaces
Before buying, consider these tips:
- Stick to the agreed budget (commonly $15–$25)
Avoid overly personal or controversial gifts
Choose unisex or work-appropriate items
When in doubt, go practical or funny
Tip: If you don’t know your recipient well, safe bets include snacks, mugs, or desk gadgets.
Top 50 Secret Santa Ideas for Work in 2025
Under $10 Gifts
- Funny coffee mug with office humor
- Desk plant or mini succulent
- Gourmet hot chocolate packet + mug
- Sticky notes with sarcastic quotes
- Travel-size hand cream set
- Stress relief squeeze ball
- Novelty socks with fun prints
- Reusable stainless steel straw set
- Mini calendar or planner
- USB cable organizer
$10–$15 Gifts
- Magnetic desktop dartboard
- Bluetooth phone stand
- Personalized keychain
- Desk vacuum (mini USB cleaner)
- Insulated tumbler or travel mug
- Scented candle with relaxing notes
- Small desk lamp or light bar
- Reusable lunch bag
- Puzzle book or adult coloring book
- Funny office quote wall sign
$15–$25 Gifts
- Wireless mouse with ergonomic grip
- Mug warmer (USB-powered)
- Aromatherapy essential oil diffuser
- Office survival kit (gum, lotion, tissues, etc.)
- Tech cleaning kit for keyboards/screens
- Subscription to Audible or Spotify (1 month)
- Noise-canceling earplugs or white noise machine
- Cold brew coffee maker
- Cozy fleece throw blanket
- Mini Zen garden for desk
Funny Secret Santa Ideas
- “World’s Okayest Employee” mug
- Mini punching bag for stress relief
- Decision-making paperweight (“Yes, No, Maybe”)
- Mini toilet coffee mug
- Office-themed trivia or card game
- Inflatable crown for “employee of the month”
- Bobblehead of a famous character
- Retro handheld game console
- “Emergency Meeting” Among Us button
- Fake parking tickets (gag gift)
Personalized or Thoughtful Gifts
- Custom nameplate for their desk
- Initials monogram journal
- Personalized coffee or tea blend
- Engraved pen set
- Custom mousepad with their favorite quote
- Desk nameplate with job title & fun tagline
- Monogrammed travel tumbler
- Personalized puzzle or brain teaser
- Custom ornament with their name
- Notebook with an inspirational message
Secret Santa Ideas for Remote Employees
Remote teams can still join the fun! Consider:
- Amazon eGift cards
- Virtual coffee gift cards (e.g., Starbucks, Dunkin’)
- Snack boxes from companies like SnackMagic or Bokksu
- Funny Zoom backgrounds or downloadable office games
- Personalized digital art or name illustrations
How to Organize a Secret Santa at Work
- Set a budget (typically $10–$25)
- Use a name-drawing platform like Elfster or DrawNames.com
- Set a date and time for the exchange
- Encourage anonymous hints or questionnaires
- Provide guidelines to avoid awkward gifts
- Host a reveal party—in-person or via Zoom
Bonus tip: Let people opt out if they’re not comfortable participating.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect Secret Santa gift for work doesn’t have to be stressful. Stick to the budget, keep it thoughtful or lighthearted, and tailor it to the person (or the whole team). Whether it’s a funny mug, a desk plant, or a handy tech gadget, the best gifts show you put in just enough thought to make someone smile.
The best Secret Santa gifts are simple, smart, and spark a little joy—no matter who you’re buying for.
FAQs
1. What’s a good budget for Secret Santa at work?
$10 to $25 is typical. Keep it low enough for everyone to participate comfortably.
2. Is it okay to give gift cards?
Yes! Gift cards are a great universal option—especially for remote workers or when you’re unsure of preferences.
3. How do I keep my gift anonymous?
Wrap it without revealing clues, or use gift exchange apps that manage anonymity.
4. What gifts should I avoid?
Avoid anything too personal, religious, political, or expensive. Keep it professional and lighthearted.
5. What if I don’t know my recipient well?
Stick to safe options like desk accessories, snacks, candles, or gift cards.
Also read: Buying an ATM Machine: A Complete Guide to Passive Income in 2025
