15 Free And Cheap Mother’s Day Gifts From The Heart

Can you make Mom feel extra special without spending a fortune? Absolutely!
These thoughtful and mostly free Mother’s Day gifts are perfect to surprise Mom with something meaningful without over-spending. Plus, they’re ideal for moms who appreciate heartfelt gestures over extra clutter.
Best of all? These gifts are full of love and guaranteed to make Mom smile!
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15 Top Free And Cheap Gifts For Mother’s Day
1. Gifts With Tags That Make Her Smile
If you’re giving a DIY or small gift, make it even more special with a printable gift tag. Each tag comes with creative gift ideas, making it easy to turn any present into a meaningful gesture.
These tags work with many of the simple and inexpensive ideas below!
2. A Hand-Picked Bouquet
There’s something incredibly charming about a bouquet of hand-picked flowers. Pick a small bouquet from the backyard garden or a nearby trail. Add a handwritten note and tie it with a ribbon for a sweet touch.
3. Poetry From The Heart
Your hair is pretty,
your cheeks are sweet,
your mouth has kind words,
and your heart loves me.
-Colin, 7 yrs
A handwritten poem is a heartfelt keepsake that moms will treasure forever. It’s simple for young kids to create all on their own with no spending required!
4. The Gift of Peace And Quiet
Moms love spending time with family. But let’s be honest. Alone time is a rare and cherished gift.
Give her a guilt-free break to do whatever she pleases: take a nap, read a book, binge her favorite show, or just sit in silence (yes, silence!).
A few uninterrupted hours can feel like a luxury and show that you truly see and appreciate everything she does.
5. A Family Adventure, Mom’s Way!
Not all moms love the same kind of adventure, so plan something that suits her style!
- Set out a simple picnic on the back deck
- Go on a scenic hike
- Stroll through a botanical garden
- Take a fun bike ride
This is about making memories together. Pack snacks, snap some photos, and let her soak in the fresh air with her favorite people.
Related: Fun Things To Do With Kids For Free
6. How Can I Help?
The. Best. Question. Ever. (Yes-it’s a gift!)
Moms are always helping everyone else. So why not turn the tables for a day?
Ask her, “How can I help you today?” Maybe it’s planning meals, deep-cleaning the kitchen, or simply handling bedtime duties.
It’s the small acts that make a big difference, and she’ll love the thoughtfulness behind this simple gift.
7. Spa Bliss At Home
Create a soothing spa experience right at home with a few simple, budget-friendly ingredients:
- Run a warm bath with bath salts: mix Epsom salt, baking soda, and calming essential oils
- Slice cucumbers and chill them for a refreshing under-eye treatment.
- Offer a hand or foot massage using lotion or coconut oil.
- Serve water infused with cucumber, mint, or lemon.
- Cut up fruit and add some of her favorite chocolates.
Pair these with a comfy robe, a candle, and soft music. She’ll have a mini retreat without stepping outside!
8. Surprise Mom With a Friend Date
Moms are often busy juggling everything and don’t always have time for their friendships. Surprise her by arranging a casual brunch, coffee date, or pedicure with her closest friends.
She’ll love the chance to laugh, catch up, and enjoy much-needed social time without having to plan it herself!
Planning a surprise date with her own mom or grandmother is another great variation too.
Related: 20 Memorable Things to Do on Mother’s Day
9. Bookworm Bliss
If your mom loves to read, this is a thoughtful and simple Mother’s Day gift idea. Pick up a book in her favorite genre. Pair it with a colored bookmark from the kids. And most importantly, make sure she gets uninterrupted time to actually enjoy it.
Bonus points if you bring her a cup of tea or coffee while she reads!
10. Breakfast In Bed Done Right!
Go beyond just toast and coffee here. Make it feel like a real indulgence! Whip up her favorite breakfast. Fluffy pancakes, fresh fruit, or eggs cooked just the way she likes.
Serve it with a handwritten note or flower on the tray for an extra special touch.
11. A Sweet Treat
Every mom has that one indulgent treat she loves. Pick up something simple that makes her happy, wrap it up nicely, and let her savor it without sharing!
12. Tearable Love Notes For Mom
Moms do so much for everyone around them. Sometimes they forget just how truly incredible they are. Remind her with these simple, but heartfelt tearable compliments.
Print the free pre-made version or personalize your own!
13. Frame-Worthy Words
“A mother’s love is endless, her heart is full of grace, and her arms always open.” — Unknown
Find a quote, verse, or saying that reminds you of your mom. Handwrite or print it, then add your own creative touch with decorations before framing it.
She’ll love having a reminder of your love that she can display at home or at work.
14. All About My Mom Free Printable
Download the free All About My Mom printable and have kids fill it out. It’s a super easy DIY gift. Plus, you get to find out what kids really think.
Related: Save Money During May +Free Printable
15. Memory Jar
Create a memory jar filled with special moments you’ve shared with mom. Write down funny stories, meaningful experiences, or even simple everyday moments that made you smile. She’ll love reliving these memories, one note at a time.
Additional idea: Find a large jar and write 10, 30, or even 365 reasons you love your mom. Have mom take one out every day to remind her of the impact she has on your life.
More Ways To Save On Gifts
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