Let’s be blunt—most staff appreciation merch is forgettable. A scratchy T-shirt. A stress ball. Maybe a tote bag that never leaves the backseat. But if you want to actually show your team you value them, you need to level up.

Because here’s the truth: your staff can tell when it’s an afterthought. And they’ll treat it that way.

What Makes Staff Merch Memorable?

It’s not about the price. It’s about the intention. Great staff merch says, “We thought about what you’d actually like.” It’s useful. It’s premium. And it doesn’t scream “marketing budget leftovers.”

Here’s what works:

• Branded drinkware – Think insulated mugs or water bottles that they’ll actually want to use daily
• Comfort-first apparel – High-quality hoodies or zip-ups with a subtle logo
• Desk gear with utility – Wireless chargers, soft-touch pens, or notebooks they’ll bring to meetings
• Seasonal extras – Think fleece blankets in winter or SPF lip balm in summer, branded just enough

When to Give Staff Merch

Don’t wait for the holidays to show appreciation. Branded swag can work year-round:

• During onboarding – Set the tone with a welcome kit
• For work anniversaries – Celebrate loyalty with something useful
• After major wins – Acknowledge team effort with a thoughtful gift
• Staff Appreciation Week – Go beyond snacks in the breakroom

Design Tips That Matter

If your team wouldn’t wear it outside of work, it’s not a win. Keep your designs clean and minimal. Prioritize quality over quantity. And avoid slapping your logo front and center—subtle branding goes a long way.

This matters even more in clinical settings. Surgery centers are already stepping up their staff merch game with thoughtful, well-designed swag that promotes morale and professionalism.

What to Avoid

• Cheap materials that break after a week
• Anything that feels like leftover patient swag
• Items with loud logos or slogans no one wants to wear

If it feels like a throwaway, it will be. Save your budget—and your team’s respect—by choosing wisely.

Need Ideas That Hit Right?

We’ve curated swag that real teams actually loved—and kept. From wellness kits to everyday gear, see what’s working in healthcare offices across the country.

Browse the staff merch gallery →

Want Staff Merch That’s Actually Appreciated?

Start with items your team will use, wear, and talk about. Skip the forgettable. Make it meaningful.

Get inspired by what other practices are doing →