32 Unique 40th Birthday Gift Ideas They'll Love
These unique and traditional presents are perfect for this milestone birthday.
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Turning 40 is a huge milestone that deserves to be celebrated. By this stage in life, they know exactly who they are and what they want. Maybe they've upgraded their home and value checking off bucket list trips now more than ever. Or, they could be keen on prioritizing their health and finding unique items to make their day-to-day life easier. Regardless of whether you're shopping for him or browsing for her, you're bound to discover unique 40th birthday gift ideas in this roundup.
We found a buildable LEGO bouquet that'll never die, a custom birthday book from The New York Times and even a punny candle that's sure to have them #rofl. And if they enjoy practical gift-giving over sentimental picks, we have those too (there's a nifty device to promote a good night's rest, for example). And don't worry if you're in search of traditional 40th birthday gifts — you'll spot items like a pair of stunning ruby earrings that look way more expensive than they are.
So, whether you're shopping for a blowout 40th birthday party, an intimate gathering or a simple coffee date with your BFF to ring in their big year, this list has you covered.
Since it's such a big birthday, you can't give just any 'ol gift bag. This one is designed to impress and the elegant ribbon closure will ensure the present remains a complete surprise.
She'll love this cute t-shirt that gives a nod to the year she was born. It's made of a soft cotton blend that'll keep her comfy from the gym, to running errands or even a casual meeting with friends.
Help them celebrate their birthday in style with this custom book from The New York Times. It contains the front page from each year since they were born, complete with a beautiful binding.
40th Birthday Wine Bag
Your BFF will love this hilarious wine bag, which is perfect for a girls' wine night. It's made of linen and will hold the standard wine bottle size of 750ml. "It was exactly as pictured," one Amazon purchaser wrote.
They'll remember their 40th whenever they cook with this bamboo cutting board. It comes engraved with facts from the year they were born and it measures 12 inches in length. It's perfect for cutting cheese and vegetables.
We promise they'll laugh over this hilarious three-ply toilet paper. It's so funny, they might choose not to use it.
By the time they hit 40, they're probably starting to feel those dreaded aches and pains. Thanks to this candle, they can find the humor in it all — and enjoy the lovely floral aroma it will add to their home.
Help celebrate her 40th with this unique necklace. Made of glass, nylon and glass, it has one bead for each year she's spent on earth.
Filled with over 400 pop-culture questions, this trivia game will surely be an instant hit at their birthday party. Amazon reviewers rave about its quality and the nostalgic feelings it brings them.
At this age, self-care is everything. Over 21,000 Amazon reviewers have purchased this ice roller for the face and eyes and most love it. It claims to prevent wrinkles, moisturize dry skin and even help relieve fatigue.
Your husband will love this practical wooden phone docking station. It measures seven inches high, comes in three different colors and Amazon reviewers are calling it a great gift for the man in your life.
Even if you've already chosen a great gift, don't forget to include a card that'll make them smile. "This is such a great card with an old-fashioned edge. My wife shares the same birthday with a good friend, and this card made for great laughs and a huge smile," one Amazon reviewer wrote.
Remind her just how great she is with this makeup bag that can be used to carry her everyday essentials. Made of linen and waterproof material, one Amazon reviewer called it "cute and durable."
The Bucket List: 1000 Adventures Big & Small
Since they can never get enough of experiences, give them a little motivation to plan a memorable getaway. This inspiring book features 1,000 thrilling adventures for all types of travelers.
RELATED: Vacation Ideas for an Unforgettable Family Experience
If they're a bookworm, they'll appreciate this bookmark that comes engraved with a sentimental message. It's made of stainless steel — perfect for your sister, or even your coworkers, brother or BFF. Don't forget a good book to go with it!
With over 77,000 ratings on Amazon and a debut on Shark Tank, this wearable sherpa blanket is a hit. "This magical creation is like a warm, cuddly dream come true. From the moment I slipped it on, I knew I had found the ultimate source of coziness and comfort," one Amazon reviewer wrote.
Help them gently drift off to sleep with this sound machine, which boasts over 42,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. "Some cool features: You can change the timer for how long it stays on, or set it to just run all night, which is my go-to setting. If you do set a timer, the white noise it creates doesn't just stop suddenly, it slowly fades out so as not to disturb your sleep," one Amazon reviewer wrote.
Silk pillowcases are a hot self-care item and are proven to reduce frizz and wrinkles. Despite being under $20, this pick wowed our experts with its high-quality materials. Not bad, if you ask us.
RELATED: The Best Silk Pillowcases of 2024
A 2022 Kitchen Gear Award winner, this electric tea kettle was one of the best we tested. The temperature readings are fairly accurate and can be filled up without removing the lid, making it perfect for a busy 40-something-year-old.
We promise that this soft cotton-poly number will quickly become his favorite t-shirt. It's printed with a punny phrase that's just perfect gift for a hip-hop fan.
Cailey Lindberg (she/her) is a writer and editor with over a decade of experience covering products, lifestyle, entertainment and food. Before joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, she was a staff writer at USA Today's shopping network, Reviewed.com.
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