Housewarming Gift Sets: What to Include

Moving into a new home is a milestone worth celebrating. Whether your loved ones are first-time homeowners, upgrading to their dream space, or settling into a cozy apartment, the right housewarming gift can make the transition even more special.

A thoughtfully curated housewarming gift set goes beyond the standard bottle of wine. It’s a chance to blend functionality, comfort, and personal touches into one beautifully packaged basket that helps them feel truly at home. From traditional keepsakes to everyday essentials, here’s everything you need to know about creating the perfect housewarming gift.

Traditional Housewarming Gifts

Housewarming gifts have deep cultural roots, and many of the items we exchange today stem from long-held traditions. These symbolic offerings were believed to bring luck, comfort, and prosperity to a new home—and they still make thoughtful additions to a modern gift set. Some of the most traditional ones include:

• Bread—Symbolizes abundance and the hope that the home will never know hunger.

• Salt—Represents good luck, protection, and the preservation of hospitality.

• Olive Oil—A wish for health, peace, and a smooth start in the new home.

• Candles—Gifted to “light the new home,” symbolizing warmth and guidance.

• Honey—Represents sweetness and happiness in everyday life.

• Wine—A classic choice celebrating joy, friendship, and good cheer.
  

These traditional items can be elevated to match a premium, modern aesthetic. For example:

• Pair artisanal sourdough with a luxury linen bread wrap.

• Gift an infused olive oil set alongside a handcrafted ceramic pourer.

• Choose natural beeswax candles in muted tones for a cozy, sophisticated vibe.
  

Adding one or two of these timeless symbols to your gift basket brings a layer of thoughtfulness that goes beyond purely practical items. It connects your gift to something meaningful while still keeping the presentation stylish and on-brand.

What To Include in a Housewarming Gift Basket

At the end of the day, a well-curated housewarming gift basket should balance practicality, personalization, and presentation. It’s about more than just filling a container—it’s about creating an experience that makes the new homeowners feel truly celebrated. So, here’s how to put one together!

1. Choose Functional, Usable Items

Practical gifts always shine—especially for someone still unpacking boxes. Everyday essentials feel thoughtful when chosen with quality and aesthetics in mind, such as:

• Elegant hand towels or linen napkins

• Toilet paper (yes, really!)

• Paper towel

• Premium olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or gourmet salt blends

• Wooden serving boards or cheese knives

• Small-batch coffee, loose-leaf tea, or hot chocolate mixes

• Chic reusable food wraps or glass storage jars

• Natural cleaning sprays in glass bottles

• Bamboo dish brushes or microfiber cloth sets

• Scented linen sprays or room mists

• Luxurious hand soaps and lotions

• A small potted herb plant, like rosemary or basil
  
  

When packaged thoughtfully, even the most practical items feel elevated. For instance, pairing a natural hand soap with a matching lotion in a wooden caddy creates a luxe, ready-to-display gift.

2. Include a Thoughtful Gift Card

Gift cards can be a highly practical addition, especially when chosen with intention. The key is to pick ones that genuinely support the recipient’s new lifestyle, such as:

• IKEA—Perfect for furniture, storage, and decor solutions.

• Wayfair—Ideal for stylish accents and bigger home updates.

• HomeSense/HomeGoods—Great for unique finds that make a space feel cozy.

• Local Shops & Cafés—Encourage them to explore their new neighborhood!

• Gourmet Grocery or Wine Stores—A little indulgence for stocking their pantry.
  
  

To make the gesture more personal, tuck the gift card into a handwritten note or slip it into a small decorative envelope included in the basket.

3. Add Personal Touches

Personalization turns a beautiful gift into an unforgettable one. A few ideas:

• Handwritten notes

• Framed photos

• Customized items (drink coasters, signs, salt & pepper shakers, etc.)
  
  

Even adding a small keepsake—like a handwritten recipe card or a little trinket tied to an inside joke—shows a level of thoughtfulness that makes your gift stand out.

4. Elevate the Presentation

A housewarming basket should look as beautiful as it is useful. Choose packaging that feels intentional and premium:

• For the basket try: Woven baskets, wooden crates, or Hammont’s elegant gift boxes.

• For fillers: Use linen napkins, shredded kraft paper, or eco-friendly filler.

• When choosing your color: Stick to soft neutrals, earthy tones, or muted pastels for a polished aesthetic.

At the end of the day, a housewarming gift is a way to help someone start their next chapter with warmth and style. By blending traditional symbols, practical essentials, and personal touches, you can create a gift set that feels curated, meaningful, and premium.

Whether you include artisanal kitchen staples, natural cleaning must-haves, or a beautifully chosen gift card, the secret lies in the details. When you package it all in an elegant basket or Hammont’s gift box, you’re not just giving them “things”—you’re giving them a sense of home!