24 elf on the shelf ideas to bring all the magical mischief in 2025

Elf on the shelf has become a staple for us in the run up to Christmas, providing some much needed festive cheer as we gear up for the big day on the 25th. But coming up with interesting elf on the shelf ideas every single day is no mean feat, so if you're struggling for inspiration, then we've got you covered with 24 ideas, from the creative to the last-minute.

Depending on how willing you are to commit to the bit, we've got thoughtful ideas that require minimum effort but deliver maximum impact, as well as more adventurous ideas for the more dedicated among us. We're not quite sure we knew what we were getting ourselves into when we signed up for the whole naughty elf gig, but as we now find ourselves here, we're on hand to help you bring magic and mischief in equal measure.

Here are 24 elf on the shelf ideas to see you through the 2025 festive season.

Elf on the shelf riding an apple caterpillar

Got some spare apples hanging around? This is one elf on the shelf idea that is incredibly simple yet effective – all you need is some apples, googly eyes, toothpicks and marshmallows.

Tuesday elf on the shelf idea

Taco Tuesday never looked so terrifying. This one's pretty self-explanatory; you'll just need some tortillas to bring this incredibly creepy idea to life.

Toothpaste Oreo elf on the shelf idea

Is nothing sacred? Those pesky elves have vilified our cookie of choice, and we're not ok.

Trapped in toilet roll elf on the shelf

This easy elf on the shelf idea sees our mischief friend trapped in a toilet roll. Low effort, minimum impact. Just be careful coming down the stairs!

Sprout swapping elf on the shelf

Elf on the Shelf has upgraded his pranks for 2025, and this one's sure to cause uproar with the family.

Sofa diving elf on the shelf

The elves have gone digging for goodies in the sofa! The beauty of this one is that you can collect anything and everything to bring it to life.

Toasty air fryer elf on the shelf

For the smug air fryer owners out there, make the most of your superior kitchen setup and let your elf on the shelf cosy up in your fryer.

Elf on the shelf grating fun

Who knew that graters could make for so many weird and wonderful elf on the shelf ideas? Potatoes = crisps and notes = chocolate coins? No questions.

Chilly elf on the shelf arrival idea

Jump scare! This is a fail-safe, naughty elf arrival idea, but can equally be used throughout the month for when our magical friends find themselves locked out in the cold.

‘Apple watch’ elf on the shelf

Trolling tech-loving children has never been simpler than it is with this easy Apple Watch elf on the shelf idea.

Naughty carrot grating elf on the shelf

Set up your own snowman rejection centre. All you need is a grater, pen, paper and some terrified-looking carrots. Sinister lighting not included.

Campfire candle elf on the shelf

It's s'more season! Bring the campsite vibes to your home with this funny elf on the shelf idea.

Special ink elf on the shelf

An easy elf on the shelf idea that is sure to spark joy with the younger chocolate-loving members of your family, this low-effort option is sure to go down a treat for all.

Lego transformer elf on the shelf

By no means a last-minute job, upgrade your elf on the shelf by adapting it into a LEGO transformer situation as above.

Popcorn elf on the shelf

Elf has kindly treated us to some ‘fresh’ poopcorn!

Fizzy cola elf on the shelf

A similar vibe to the corn idea. Is there nothing these elves can't produce?

Terrible egg joke elf on the shelf idea

Sometimes, dad jokes are the best option. Simple yet effective, this is one elf on the shelf idea that only requires an egg, a pen and a piece of paper!

Melted snowman elf on the shelf

Oop. Recreate this melted snowman with a ramekin, some water and your choice of veg and foliage to bring this idea to life! Don't forget the note.

Bottled elf on the shelf

Elf on the shelf is not afraid to call people out! Hilarious and easy in equal measure, this idea takes all of 2 minutes to pull together.

Elf on the shelf games night

Fancy a game of noughts and crosses? Depending on how committed you are to the bit this elf on the shelf idea will leave a lasting impression.

Wicked Witch of the elf on the shelf

An interactive elf on the shelf — this one literally flies across the room. Very timely, very topical.

Elf on the shelf on laundry day

Uh oh, the elf got stuck in the laundry machine! Just be careful not to actually press the start button.

Elf on the shelf heist edition

The elf is on the hunt for cookies. Classic elf. This heist-themed elf on the shelf is super cute and super creative.

Elf on the shelf on thin ice

Another very creative take on elf on the shelf for the 2025 season: use some cling film over the sink to create a fake ice rink and add some flour as fake snow.