Meaningful Gifts: What Doesn't End Up in a Drawer
A gift won't end up in a drawer if it is used every day and is the right size and style. Bedding, fitted sheets and towels meet this criterion, provided the size and colour are right. These textiles are used daily, wear out over time and are nevertheless rarely replaced.
Why do so many gifts go unused?
Many gifts go unused because they are either not needed or do not fit. Decorative items may not match the interior style, clothes may not fit, and gadgets are forgotten after a few days. A useful gift, on the other hand, solves an everyday problem: threadbare bedding, a sheet that constantly slips off the mattress, or towels that barely absorb water.
Which gifts are really used every day?
Textiles for the bed and bathroom are used every day, above all. The table shows how often a gift is used and where the risks lie.
| Gift | How often used | Risk | How to get it right |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bedding | every night | Duvet size | 135 × 200 cm is the most common size |
| Fitted sheet | every night | Mattress size and height | only give as a gift if the mattress is known |
| Towels | daily | Colour | subdued tones such as grey or dove blue |
| Throw | almost daily in winter | Taste | solid-coloured throws match most sofas |
How to choose the right size and colour without asking?
The safest way to choose the right size and colour without asking is to stick to the standard: bedding measuring 135 × 200 cm fits most single duvets, and subdued solid colours suit almost any bedroom. If you know their favourite colour, choose that; if you are unsure, opt for grey, white or earth tones. The guide Choosing Bedding: Colour and Design offers help with choosing a colour.
Why is good bedding a useful gift?
Good bedding is useful because it is used every night and, if of good quality, lasts for many years. biberna invented Biber bedding (brushed cotton flannel) in 1968; brushed cotton such as Flannel and melange flannel keep you warm in winter, while smooth fabrics such as mako sateen or lightweight ones such as seersucker are suitable all year round. A set such as the biberna Melange Flannel Bedding (0840500) is available in many subdued colours.
How to put together a coordinated gift set
The biberna gift finder puts together bedding, a fitted sheet and pillowcases in the same colour by asking two questions. If you do not know the mattress size, select “I don’t know” and receive a set without a fitted sheet.
Frequently asked questions
What is a useful gift that won't end up in a drawer?
A gift that is used every day and is rarely replaced. Bedding, fitted sheets and towels are good examples. It is important that the size and colour are right: bedding measuring 135 × 200 cm and subdued solid colours are the safe choice if you do not know the recipient's preferences.
Is bedding a practical gift?
Yes. Bedding is used every night and, if of good quality, lasts for many years. Flannel bedding and melange flannel from biberna are suitable for anyone who gets cold at night, while seersucker or Tencel are ideal for anyone who gets hot quickly.
Which colour should I choose if I do not know the recipient's taste?
A subdued solid colour such as grey, white, dove blue or an earth tone. These colours suit most bedrooms and can be combined with existing bedding. Bold patterns are riskier because they depend more on personal taste.
Why should I only give a fitted sheet if I know the mattress size?
Because a fitted sheet will only fit properly if the width, length and height of the mattress are right. A sheet that is too small will slip off at the corners, while one that is too large will bunch up. If you do not know the mattress size, bedding alone is the safer gift.