The huge Christmas guidelines: Don’t neglect these key buys, from visitor must-haves to the cooking devices that may make your life simpler (and in the event you order now they’re going to are available in time for Christmas)
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Christmas is almost here – the tree is up, the festive lights are twinkling, your wreath is hanging on the door but what about the big day itself?
While most of us have already started stocking up for the festive feast (did anybody say five packs of mince pies?), there’s almost always something that gets forgotten about amidst the chaos of prepping and present wrapping.
Thankfully, that’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up all the Christmas must-haves you might have forgotten about in the lead up to the big day, as well as some worthwhile extras to stock up on, just in case those unexpected guests drop in.
We’ve rounded up Christmas must-haves you might have forgotten
What’s more, if you plan on buying today, all of these items should arrive in time for Christmas, meaning you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your heated blanket to get prepared.
Your ultimate Christmas Day essentials checklist
For the main event
All the essentials and extras you need to make your Christmas dinner go as smoothly as possible.
OXO Good Grips Chef’s Precision digital thermometer for the perfect cooked through turkey or medium rare on your beef and lamb
Worried about oven space? This capable Tefal air fryer should arrive before Christmas and has generous 7.5L capacity – ideal for those extra roasties or pigs in blankets.
The condiment company are still delivery luxury sauces – like this horseradish sauce – before Christmas
This dual-handle gravy jug comes with a handy fat separator for oil-free homemade gravy.
For the post meal clean up
It’s everyone’s least favourite job, but it has to be done. Make sure you’ve got these items on hand to make life easier.
Pyrex Cook & Freeze (set of four) glass dishes come with airtight lids – the perfect plastic-free storage for Christmas leftovers.
Whether you’re getting rid of leftover food, disposable cooking trays, wrapping paper or anything else – this pack of 20 with tie tops will see you through.
A fresh, non-scratch scrubber is a must-have for all the greasy trays and plates. I always use a dedicated sponge for grease-laden items to keep my usual scrubbers clean. This one from Scrub Daddy is ideal.
To keep guests happy
Set the mood and make the evening more festive.
Keep guests (big and small) happy with these essential items.
Not the most glamorous of Christmas essentials but if you’re like me, you’ll always want a pack of these handy for festive overindulgence.
British-based Talking Tables have these gorgeous pre-made crackers featuring a how well do you know me game and the all important hat.
This sixx second scribbles game is an easy and short after dinner game for Christmas.
If you’re looking for something a little more in-depth. check out of full tested roundup of the best board games for Christmas.
Give your guest the gift of Christmas leftovers. These disposable aluminium containers are an affordable way to pack up leftovers for guests.
You get 10 in a pack and they come with paper lids – just like your favourite takeaway.
Spread some festive cheer with a Christmassy scented candle. We like this one from Yankee – it’s cinnamon heaven.
These mulled wine sachets are an easy way to turn any bottle you might already have at home into something festive. Perfect for the post-dinner film or games .
Additional extras
Essentials that you might have forgotten about
Great for food prep but also opening presents, food packages or last minute wrapping. These KitchenAid brand scissors will last you a lifetime.
For carving meat, chopping vegetables or serving the cheese platter. This three piece wooden set is perfect for all your Christmas needs.
If you’re baking or need to measure ingredients for the main meal, these stainless steel cups from Dexam are perfect.
Those Christmas toys, gadgets and remotes often come without batteries. These AA ones from Duracell our the best and most long lasting.
Another not-so-glamorous essential here. If you’ve got lots of friends or family coming over, make sure to stock up on the good stuff for your bathroom.
We suggest these XL quilted rolls from Andrex
Treat yourself and your family to some swanky looking disposable dinner napkins for Christmas dinner. They add a touch of class to your meal without costing a fortune.
Don’t forget the basic kitchen roll too.
What to stock up on post-Christmas
Once to the big day is over and done with, there’s still Boxing Day and New YEars to think about.
We suggest putting together a checklist of everything you might have run out of or are running low of and make a quick shopping trip to see you into January.
This could include things like milk, eggs, bread, soft drinks and alcohol top-ups. But don’t also forget things like gravy, stock cubes, kitchen roll and toilet roll. Make a note now, so you’re fully prepared for 2026.
