Rather than get something that winds up in the corner of your host’s storeroom, why not switch things up with these actually useful tools from Taobao? From fancy cheese platters to cutesy cameras — here’s our round-up of the best housewarming gifts that are so impressive, they wouldn’t be regifted!
We Singaporeans are so accustomed to fast-paced city-living that when our world came to a standstill last year, a distinctive imbalance was felt in many facets of our lives. Thankfully, home renovations are finally wrapping up after months of inactivity — a mighty fine sign that life might soon be returning to normal. We’re also seeing a rise in the rental of properties, whether for a change of environment or as interim housing. Either way, as friends, loved ones, and colleagues move into their new abodes, so will housewarming invites roll into your mailboxes.
While there is no hard and fast rule on what makes up the perfect housewarming gift, a good rule of thumb would be the functionality of an item in helping new homeowners navigate their new world of weekend chores, dinner parties, and everything else in between.
In this guide, however, we’ll be fleeing from the confines of anything generic or ho-hum since homes are, after all, often seen as an extension of oneself. Regardless, if you have a housewarming party coming up and can’t decide on what to get for your hosts — keep this shortlist handy for failproof and affordable gift ideas that you can find on Taobao!
Best Housewarming Gifts From Taobao:
- For The Budding Chefs: Multi-purpose Breakfast Maker
- For Those With Limited Space: Nesting Cookware Set with Detachable Handle
- For The Jay Gatsbys: Boss-Level Cheese Board
- For The Caffeine Addicts: Kettle and Mug with Temperature Control Coaster
- For The Sentimental / Artsy Friend: Point and Shoot Cameras
- For Those Who Need A Helping Hand: Xiaomi Robot Vacuum Pro
1. For The Budding Chefs: Multi-purpose Breakfast Maker
We’ve seen enough movies in our lifetime to know that nothing beats cooking up a delicious storm on those sacred weekend mornings. However, the ensuing clean-up can be a huge deterrent for many, dashing their brunch dreams. It doesn’t have to end this way, though.
From fluffy waffles to perfectly cooked eggs, this breakfast maker can do it all — and at the same time. No extra mess, no extra stress! Simply attach the appropriate accessory onto the machine, and you can whip up nearly anything your stomach desires. Available in 4 lovely pastel colours and with a wide range of accessories, this Multi-Purpose Breakfast Maker is sure to score you an invite to your host’s next brunch party!
If you’re planning on splashing out, you could even purchase an accompanying air fryer to help tide them through those busy workdays and lazy nights in.
Price: From ¥519 (~S$108.60)
Purchase yours here.
2. For Those With Limited Space: Nesting Cookware Set with Detachable Handle
If your friend’s abode is on the smaller and cosier side, it’s good to make sure that your presentation is not too bulky, or all that planning and wrapping might go to waste. After all, space is precious in tinier homes.
This set of Nesting Cookware features non-stick pans that doubles up as serving bowls and plates when not in use, thanks to their detachable handle (ingenious!). Not only are they space savers, but they’re also chore-savers too. We consider it a win-win for small home dwellers all around the island!
Price: From ¥128 (~$26.80)
Purchase yours here.
3. For The Jay Gatsbys: Boss-Level Cheese Board
Adulting milestones include more than just buying a house and paying your bills. Dressing up a cheese board and pairing it with some wine is an important rite of passage too.
This one from Taobao might seem unassuming at one glance. However, this board actually comes with a hidden drawer compartment containing tools you might need when assembling an epic charcuterie board. Besides cheese and cold cuts, this board could also double up as a serving platter for all kinds of food — the options are endless!
Price: From ¥119 (~$24.90)
Purchase yours here.
4. For The Caffeine Addicts: Kettle and Mug with Temperature Control Coaster
We know it’s quite the #firstworldproblem, but there’s nothing more annoying than waiting for your piping hot cuppa to cool down — only to have it cool a little too much, leaving you with old and stale coffee or tea.
As with most problems, Taobao is most likely to have the solution. This set is compact enough for smaller spaces, yet has a capacity to heat up two whole cups. Just choose your ideal temperature on the LED screen of the electric coaster, and you can enjoy a perfectly brewed cuppa any time of the day.
Interestingly, The coaster can also be used to wirelessly charge your smartphone. But if you ask us, we’d stick to our normal charging wires instead.
Price: From ¥459 (~$96.10)
Purchase yours here.
5. For The Sentimental / Artsy Friend: Point and Shoot Cameras
If your host is someone who loves collecting mementoes or capturing memories, then these disposable cameras are perfect for helping them immortalise their milestones.
Film cameras come with a personality that our iPhones don’t have — perhaps because you can’t quite control the turnout of every shot. It captures candid moments and no one photo looks quite the same, thanks to light leaks and film grain. Regardless, one thing’s for sure: they are severely underrated! Available in 12 fun colours, these cameras are also great for adding a pop of colour to nooks and crannies.
While you’re at it, why not buy a couple for yourself — from bike rides around the island to playing tourist in Singapore, here’s a chance to commemorate these special moments in a fun and novel way!
Price: From ¥96 (~$20.10)
Purchase yours here.
6. For Those Who Need A Helping Hand: Xiaomi Robot Vacuum Pro
The act of completing chores is as tough as it is. So imagine the stress that first-time homeowners go through as they single-handedly complete every chore! Enter: the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum Cleaner.
This futuristic cleaning machine not only vacuums but also mops, which means clean floors for days. As always, you’ll be able to control your Xiaomi vacuum remotely through an app, so you can let this bad boy do his magic even when you’re out. With other nifty capabilities like path planning and map creations, you’ll have total control over where and how you’d like to clean your home.
Price: From ¥2699 (~$565.20)
Purchase yours here.
Warm More Than Just Their Homes With These Taobao Housewarming Gifts
Choosing the right housewarming present can be tricky, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself — it’s truly the thought that counts.
If you’re planning on splashing out on bigger items, you can always check out our comprehensive local and international furniture guides for extra inspo. When in doubt, just address the elephant in the room by asking the hosts directly. While it might seem awkward, you can at least save everyone some time and effort!
On the topic of saving, don’t forget to make use of your YouTrip Card so that you can save more with our Wholesale Exchange Rates! You might even want to check out this handy guide on how to ship from Taobao, and what you can’t purchase before you cart out.
If you still haven’t gotten your free YouTrip card, use our special promo code <TAOBAO5> to sign up and receive a free S$5 in your account!
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*All currency conversion rates are accurate to nearest 10 cents on 12 July 2021 SGT 02:00. Bank card prices are calculated based on 3.25% foreign currency transaction fee.
