So it’s that time of year again – people are planning their Christmas purchases for friends and family. What sort of stocking fillers people are looking for? Basically “something inexpensive” tops the list, followed by “something the recipient would appreciate”, and “something nice, unique, and fun”. You are bound to find something on this list that is a perfect present for someone!

1.This money box is sure to be a hit - Add coins at your own risk: only by smashing the glass can they be retrieved. As you watch your money literally build up, you will be torn between the desire to save more or cash in. With money rapidly disappearing into plastic cards and online transactions, the physical presence of ‘In Case of Emergency’ money box will make you think more carefully before you decide to splash out. What will be your moment of need? (€12.99 from www.pressieport.ie)

2.Pimp up your bath with the ultimate in ‘hot’ tub accessories. The Underwater Light Show is, admittedly, just a little bit bling, but we can forgive it that as it transforms your bath, at the flick of a switch, into a raving disco dance floor – and why oh why wouldn’t you want that in your bathroom! Of course if you’d rather have a more sedate soak, then you can chose the more seductive slow pulsing mode. (£7.99 from IWOOT)

3. This Plain Lazy Self-Stirring mug is ideal for all the lazy-bones out there. It eliminates the need for a spoon making it a great gift for students as well – it may cut down on the dreaded washing-up! (£9.95 from www.pressiebox.com)

4. For a more personalized approach, luxury chocolate brand Thornton’s are offering customers the chance to customize their own box of chocolates including the lid of the box! This offer is not to be missed if you are buying presents for choc-a-holics! ( single layer – £12, double layer – £17, triple layer – £22. From www.thorntons.co.uk and in stores)

5. Domestic Goddesses are sure to enjoy this one! The Diva Washing Up Brush – Who says house hold chores have to be boring when you can demand everyone around the kitchen with this diva washing up brush. (£8 from Urban Outfitters)

6. ‘Things we didn’t know loo roll’ is a perfect stocking filler for those eager for information. Now, where’s the best place to learn something new? Yes, alright, it’s school, but indulge us for a moment would you? With the Things We Didn’t Know Loo Roll, the toilet becomes the ultimate seat of learning – concealed within its rolls of paper are countless statements of varying degrees of truth (no-one said it had to be true to be educational!). (£4.99 from www.iwantoneofthose.com)

7. Bring about a sense of nostalgia on Christmas morning with this Ladybird journal – Things To Make. Prezzybox have a range of classic Ladybird journals, each one featuring a classic cover with blank pages inside. These journals make a fabulous present for aspiring writers, or indeed, those who wish to jot down their thoughts. Of course, they are a beautiful addition to any office or work desk too! (£7.95 from www.prezzybox.com)

8. I’m sure this little gift will stir up childhood memories! This Noise Putty is an entertaining gift for those who wish to embrace their inner child, or indeed those who enjoy crude humour! (£1.25 from www.stockingfillers.co.uk)

9. For the intellectuals and puzzle-lovers out there, ‘Mensa Brain Bogglers’ makes a fabulous gift – a must for anyone who enjoys testing their logical thought process to the limit! Don’t worry – solutions are included. (£7.99 from WHSmith)

10. And in this current economic climate, people may find these nifty cards to be a treat! ‘Retro fun how to make money’
We all want to have a little (or a lot!) more money. With these fifty cards you can find new ways to increase your wealth, from tips on garage sales, to playing the stock market. Here are one hundred ideas to make you a little richer. So what are you waiting for? You’ve got to speculate to accumulate! (£4 from M&S)

Steel Magnolia