by Ethel Smith

Created on: June 07, 2008

Just as there are certain gifts ideas for Mother on Mother's Day which are definite no nos, so are there equally bad gift ideas for Dads on their special day. Firstly you need to know your Dad well in order to buy him an appropriate gift. Usually the gift should be personal and not something for around the home. However there are some men that just love tools and gadgets and who would adore the very latest power tool.

On the whole though it is better to buy something for Dad as an individual not as a homemaker or provider. I think great ideas can be anything which is hobby related or very personal. The bad ideas for gifts tend to be:-

Underwear as men, like women, all have our personal preferences.

Socks must be about the most boring and uninspired gift ever.

Cheap and cheerful toiletries can almost be insulting.

Ties are not worn as often these days as they used to be but most men already have an ample supply of them. Do not buy your long suffering Dad yet another.

Loud and garish novelty boxer shorts, ties and socks are usually a waste of money and wrapping paper as they will no doubt be hidden at the back of Dad's wardrobe.

A man bag unless you really know that your Dad would dare to carry one.

Your favourite chocolates that you plan to help Dad consume.

Car cleaning kits and the like as they are far too impersonal.

Gifts you have made yourself, unless they are done well. It is fine presenting Dad with a lopsided hand made gift when you are a child but if you are an adult yourself stop being tight and spend a little cash.

Something very cheap, tacky, thoughtless and inappropriate. The best received gifts are those that you can tell the giver has really thought about and has aimed to please.

Late gifts which arrive a day, or later, after Father's Day. No matter what the gift is it will not be appreciated.

Money as it just gives the impression that you could not be bothered to look for a gift.

Wallets, glove, scarves and other accessories. Most men will replace these as and when needed and have their own personal preferences.

Clothing as it is so easy to get it wrong.

Overall your Father's Day gift is a way of trying to show Dad just how much you care for him and love him as a Dad. As such your gift should mean something to him and really show your appreciation and love. With all of this in mind choose your gift well or else you may as well just not bother.

Learn more about this author, Ethel Smith.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.