Mother's Day: Gifts for the home

The trouble with giving kitchen or tableware is that it can be misinterpreted by mums as being a hint that they should (continue) to do everything for you - like putting the kettle on. However, if you buy something like this cheerful mug, don't just give it to your mum in the box - make her a lovely cuppa and take it straight up to her on Sunday morning so she can enjoy tea in bed.

Set of four mugs, £25
By Clipper
Buy online at jamieoliver.com
Photograph: PR

Or give her this mug and promise, as part of your present, that you'll never bother her when she's using it - take the mug's message as a “do not disturb” sign.

Mug, £16.95
By Emma Bridgewater
Buy online at johnlewis.com
Photograph: PR

Rather than buying a bouquet that won't last long, buy a potted plant and place it this beautiful vintage ceramic plant pot - the pot will probably please her more than the plant.

Vintage pots, £39.50 for three
By Graham and Green
Buy online at grahamandgreen.co.uk
Photograph: PR

If it's her very first Mother's Day (and new dads are buying), this sort of gift will last forever and be a truly special gesture to her new maternal role, without being covered in all sorts of “I love you Mum” cliches. This handmade piece is made from hearts cut out of antique book pages, mounted in a box frame. Simple and stunning.

Vintage hearts frame, from £45
By Sarah & Bendrix
Buy online at notonthehighstreet.com
Photograph: PR

Encourage her to have some 'me' time curled up on the sofa with a good book or movie and this stylish, soft throw. It's the sort of thing she'd never buy for herself (far too frivolous) but makes an indulgent and luxurious gift.

Frilly mocha throw, £50
By John Lewis
Buy online at johnlewis.com
Photograph: PR

Concede that mother is always right in everything she does and let her have the satisfaction of knowing that the entire family agrees, with this funny and pretty hanging heart which reads: “I am quite unusually brilliant.” She is, too.

Porcelain heart decoration, £9.25
By Sarah J Miller
Buy online at notonthehighstreet.com
Photograph: PR

These dainty bird vases would look lovely holding just a stem or two on her dressing table or windowsill - you could sit them on the breakfast tray and present them to her that way, too.

Bird vases, £19.75
By Graham and Green
grahamandgreen.co.uk 
Photograph: PR

Pop this in a frame to make a witty statement on your mum's wall - particularly if she likes a glass or two.

Print, £18 (unframed)
Keep Calm Gallery
Buy online at keepcalmgallery.com
Photograph: PR