Does the thought of finding the perfect Elf on the Shelf kit fill you with a mix of excitement and dread? Every December, parents everywhere face the same challenge: how to bring that magical scout elf to life without adding more stress to the busy holiday season. You want the fun, the wonder, and those adorable morning surprises, but sifting through endless boxes, accessories, and instruction manuals feels like a chore.
Choosing the right kit can be overwhelming. Do you need one with a special book? Should you get extra outfits or props right away? These small decisions pile up, turning pre-holiday prep into a headache instead of a joy. We understand that you want a setup that sparks imagination for your kids but doesn’t drain your time or budget.
Fear not! This guide cuts through the clutter. We break down exactly what makes a great Elf on the Shelf Kit and show you which ones deliver the most magic for your family. Keep reading to discover our top picks, insider tips for easy setup, and how to make your elf’s arrival the highlight of early December.
Top Elf On The Shelf Kit Recommendations
No. 1
The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition - Boy Scout Elf with Blue Eyes - Includes Artfully Illustrated Storybook, Keepsake Box and Official Adoption Certificate
- The One. The Only. The Elf on the Shelf: Ever wondered how Santa crafts his Nice list? Well, Santa has a trusted Scout Elf assigned to families around the world. They will find a spot in their family's home to sit and watch all day long. Each night, they fly back to report to Santa at the North Pole to tell him all your stories and adventures.
- Adopt a Scout Elf: Every Scout Elf comes from the North Pole and reports to Santa Claus. But you can adopt one from Santa-approved Scout Elf Adoption Centers. Now you can bring home your own Scout Elf, The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition storybook, a keepsake box, and an adoption certificate as a forever reminder they’re yours. It’s a magical experience you can share with the entire family.
- Let the Magic Begin: When you give your Scout Elf a name, their Christmas Magic is activated. This enables them to fly back and forth to the North Pole each night. Scout Elves always return the next morning and usually land on different spots and sneaky places. This makes morning more magical.
- Magic for Every Moment: Scout Elves are silly, crafty, funny, and sometimes quite adventurous. You wake up each morning and find them hiding on Christmas trees, perching on Christmas decorations, hanging out with your toys, or disguising themselves as a nutcracker. Better keep an eye out for these elves every morning, because you'll never know where they'll land next.
- A Christmas Tradition: This beloved family tradition has captured the hearts of children everywhere who embrace the magic of having a Scout Elf who reports to Santa each night during the holidays. This boxed set has everything needed to make lasting Christmas memories. It's an extravaganzalorious Christmas experience that adds joy and laughter to your Christmas season and is fun for all ages.
No. 2
The Elf on the Shelf 24-Day Ultimate Kit – Official Elf Accessories with 70+ Props, Idea Cards, and Backdrops – Easy Elf on The Shelf Ideas for Kids – Christmas Decorations – Scout Elf Not Included.
- The Official Elf Kit from Santa’s North Pole: Packed with 70+ props, idea cards, and colorful backdrops, this authentic 24-day Elf on the Shelf kit makes it easy for Scout Elves to create magical scenes without the mess or stress. With step-by-step setup cards and mix-and-match accessories, this Santa-approved box takes the guesswork out of elf antics—making mornings merry and memorable all season long.
- Complete 24-Day Elf Kit: packed with 70+ official The Elf on the Shelf accessories, including 24 idea cards, 3 double-sided backdrops, a reversible tree, and table. Everything your Scout Elf needs to create 24 days of Christmas magic!
- Easy Elf Ideas for Busy Families: with step-by-step setup cards and mix-and-match props, this North Pole-approved kit takes the guesswork out of elf scenes—your elf will just set it and smile.
- Endless Elf Combinations: your elf will build hundreds of holiday setups with interchangeable props, props like holiday signs, mini presents, furniture, and more. Spark imagination without buying extra supplies.
- Stress-Free Elf Fun: designed for elves who want to create magical elf mornings for their families without the late-night hassle. No crafting, no planning—your elf will just open the box and enjoy!
No. 3
The Elf on the Shelf 24-Day Super Set Official The Elf on the Shelf Ideas for 24 Days of Elf Magic - 80+ Props, MagiFreez Standing Pants and Calendar - for Ages 3 Years and Up Scout Elf Not Included
- Endless Christmas Possibilities: The official, Santa-approved 24-day The Elf on the Shelf kit for busy Scout Elf pals. Complete with 80+ accessories, props, planning calendar, and The Elf on the Shelf MagiFreez pants. It’s the ultimate stress-free kit for the holiday season. Scout Elf pals are sold separately.
- Minimum Effort, Maximum Ease: Our North-Pole-official super set includes mix-and-match props and pre-planned The Elf on the Shelf scenes that rise above the rest. This elf adventure kit aims to inspire your elves to create daily holiday adventures and endless giggles for your family.
- 80+ Super Set: 24 days of lifetime memories in 1 box. Have fun with 24 sets of interchangeable props for Elf on the Shelf Scout Elves and friends throughout the holiday season. Want more fun how-to ideas? We got you. Just download the official Scout Elf Ideas app for more Christmas adventures. The app is compatible with iOS and Android.
- Adopt a Scout Elf: Every Scout Elf comes from the North Pole and reports to Santa, but you can adopt one separately from a Santa-approved Scout Elf Adoption Center. Bring home your own Scout Elf so your family can create exciting scenes with this 24-day The Elf on the Shelf idea kit and enjoy imaginative playtime with one of Santa’s helpers.
- Easy Christmas Tradition for the Whole Family: We have a ton of easy elf ideas for elves who don't have the time or energy to come up with new ideas every day. This elf prop kit is a great way to introduce the tradition to new families and share the magic of Santa's helpers with loved ones without the hassle.
No. 4
The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition - Boy Scout Elf with Brown Eyes - Includes Artfully Illustrated Storybook, Keepsake Box and Official Adoption Certificate
- Santa’s Most Trusted Helpers: Ever wondered how Santa crafts his Nice list? Well, Santa has a trusted Scout Elf assigned to families around the world. They will find a spot in their family's home to sit and watch all day long. Each night, they fly back to report to Santa at the North Pole to tell him all your stories and adventures.
- Adopt a Scout Elf: Every Scout Elf comes from the North Pole and reports to Santa Claus. But you can adopt one from Santa-approved Scout Elf Adoption Centers. Now you can bring home your own Scout Elf, The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition storybook, a keepsake box, and an adoption certificate as a forever reminder they’re yours. It’s a magical experience you can share with the entire family.
- Let the Magic Begin: When you give your Scout Elf a name, their Christmas Magic is activated. This enables them to fly back and forth to the North Pole each night. Scout Elves always return the next morning and usually land on different spots and sneaky places. This makes morning more magical.
- agic for Every Moment: Scout Elves are silly, crafty, funny, and sometimes quite adventurous. You wake up each morning and find them hiding on Christmas trees, perching on Christmas decorations, hanging out with your toys, or disguising themselves as a nutcracker. Better keep an eye out for these elves every morning, because you'll never know where they'll land next.
- A Christmas Tradition: This beloved family tradition has captured the hearts of children everywhere who embrace the magic of having a Scout Elf who reports to Santa each night during the holidays. This boxed set has everything needed to make lasting Christmas memories. It's an extravaganzalorious Christmas experience that adds joy and laughter to your Christmas season and is fun for all ages.
No. 5
Christmas Elf Behaving Badly Plush Toy | Novelty Long Bendy Naughty Boy Christmas Elves Doll | 12 Inches
- FUN GAME TO PLAY AROUND CHRISTMAS TIME: Kids and adults love the little elf behaving badly game.
- FLEXIBLE, SO YOU CAN PUT THE ELF ANYWHERE: This bendy plush toy elf comes with a soft body and movable arms and legs. You can put this long legged elf on a table, desk, shelf, fan, in a cabinet, and more!
- MADE FROM QUALITY MATERIALS THAT WILL LAST: Our premium Christmas toy elf is made from super durable vinyl with strong stitching throughout. It will last for many Christmas seasons to come.
- WE DESIGNED THIS BAD ELF SAVE YOU MONEY: Instead of forking over an arm and a leg for a bad elf Christmas decoration, you can purchase this little fella and have more money to spend on presents!
- YOUR SATISFACTION IS ALWAYS OUR PRIORITY: We know your family is going to love our Christmas elves behaving badly toy. It will be one of your new Christmas time traditions. Please reach out if you have any questions.
No. 6
Christmas Elf Behaving Badly Plush Toy | Elfette Novelty Long Bendy Naughty Girl Christmas Doll | 12 Inches
- FUN GAME TO PLAY AROUND CHRISTMAS TIME: Kids and adults love the little elf behaving badly game.
- FLEXIBLE, SO YOU CAN PUT THE ELF ANYWHERE: This bendy plush toy elf comes with a soft body and movable arms and legs. You can put this long legged elf on a table, desk, shelf, fan, in a cabinet, and more!
- MADE FROM QUALITY MATERIALS THAT WILL LAST: Our premium Christmas toy elf is made from super durable vinyl with strong stitching throughout. It will last for many Christmas seasons to come.
- WE DESIGNED THIS BAD ELF SAVE YOU MONEY: Instead of forking over an arm and a leg for a bad elf Christmas decoration, you can purchase this little fella and have more money to spend on presents!
- YOUR SATISFACTION IS ALWAYS OUR PRIORITY: We know your family is going to love our Christmas elves behaving badly toy. It will be one of your new Christmas time traditions. Please reach out if you have any questions.
No. 7
The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition - Girl Scout Elf with Brown Eyes - Includes Artfully Illustrated Storybook, Keepsake Box and Official Adoption Certificate
- The One. The Only. The Elf on the Shelf: Ever wondered how Santa crafts his Nice list? Well, Santa has a trusted Scout Elf assigned to families around the world. They will find a spot in their family's home to sit and watch all day long. Each night, they fly back to report to Santa at the North Pole to tell him all your stories and adventures.
- Adopt a Scout Elf: Every Scout Elf comes from the North Pole and reports to Santa Claus. But you can adopt one from Santa-approved Scout Elf Adoption Centers. Now you can bring home your own Scout Elf, The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition storybook, a keepsake box, and an adoption certificate as a forever reminder they’re yours. It’s a magical experience you can share with the entire family.
- Let the Magic Begin: When you give your Scout Elf a name, their Christmas Magic is activated. This enables them to fly back and forth to the North Pole each night. Scout Elves always return the next morning and usually land on different spots and sneaky places. This makes morning more magical.
- Magic for Every Moment: Scout Elves are silly, crafty, funny, and sometimes quite adventurous. You wake up each morning and find them hiding on Christmas trees, perching on Christmas decorations, hanging out with your toys, or disguising themselves as a nutcracker. Better keep an eye out for these elves every morning, because you'll never know where they'll land next.
- A Christmas Tradition: This beloved family tradition has captured the hearts of children everywhere who embrace the magic of having a Scout Elf who reports to Santa each night during the holidays. This boxed set has everything needed to make lasting Christmas memories. It's an extravaganzalorious Christmas experience that adds joy and laughter to your Christmas season and is fun for all ages.
No. 8
The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition Limited 20th Anniversary Edition Box Set - Posable Boy Scout Elf with Blue Eyes, New Edition Storybook and Keepsake with Collectible Pajama Set and Ornament
- First-Ever Flex-and-Bend Scout Elf: Santa’s most trusted helpers now have extra posing power. Meet the 20th anniversary edition Scout Elf with first-ever flexible, bending limbs so they can create easy elf scenes and surprise you like never before. Under the same orders from Santa, these posable Scout Elves keep watch by day and fly home to the North Pole each night to report all your holiday adventures.
- Newly Updated Storybook and Keepsake Box: Inside this exquisite anniversary box set is everything you need to begin (or continue) a cherished tradition. This set comes with the 20th edition The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition book, keepsake box, and adoption certificate. Also comes with a limited-edition luxury loungewear and an ornament keepsake.
- A Timeless Holiday Keepsake: Celebrate 20 years of Christmas cheer with this collector’s edition Scout Elf. Designed to be treasured for years to come, this special-edition set is perfect for both new families beginning the tradition and longtime fans looking to honor this beloved tradition.
- Join the Worldwide Celebration: This year, we are letting you in on the biggest North Pole celebration with magical extras and surprises. Scan the QR code in the packaging to explore fun and magical ways you can celebrate the 20 years of joyful family traditions and elftastical stories with us and millions of families around the world.
- 20 Years of Holiday Magic: For two decades, The Elf on the Shelf tradition has brought joy, laughter, and festive fun to families everywhere. That's 20 years of magical experiences of a Scout Elf who reports to Santa each night and returns with exciting surprises throughout the season. Celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Elf on the Shelf with us and let us create more unforgettable holiday memories for years to come.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Elf On The Shelf Kit
The Elf on the Shelf tradition brings a sprinkle of Christmas magic into homes every December. Choosing the right kit sets the stage for weeks of fun. This guide helps you pick the perfect set for your family’s holiday adventure.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for an Elf on the Shelf kit, several features make the experience better. Always check what the box includes. A complete kit usually has everything you need to start immediately.
- The Scout Elf: Look at the quality of the elf itself. Does it have sturdy stitching? Is the fabric soft but durable enough for moving around?
- The Storybook: The official book explains the rules: the elf watches, flies back to Santa each night, and needs a new spot daily. Make sure the book is included and easy for kids to understand.
- Adoption Certificate: Some kits include a certificate. This formalizes the adoption, making the elf feel more like a real family member.
- Poseability: Good elf kits have bendable arms and legs. This makes it easier for parents to place the elf in creative, fun poses.
Important Materials and Construction
The materials determine how long your elf lasts. Since you move the elf daily, durability matters. Most elves are made from soft felt or similar fabric over a wire frame.
Durability Check
- Fabric Quality: High-quality felt resists pilling or tearing, even with frequent handling. Cheap fabric wears out quickly.
- Stitching: Examine the seams, especially around the head and limbs. Strong, tight stitching prevents stuffing from coming out.
- Internal Structure: A flexible wire armature inside allows for bending. Ensure the wire does not poke through the fabric after a few days of posing.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The overall quality of the kit affects your holiday enjoyment. A well-made kit reduces parental stress.
What Makes a Kit Great?
- Official Branding: Official Elf on the Shelf products usually follow high manufacturing standards. Knock-off brands might use thinner materials.
- Accessory Packs: Some premium kits come with small accessories, like tiny scarves or letters. These extras boost creativity.
- Color Fastness: The bright red suit should not bleed color onto lighter surfaces, especially if the elf gets damp.
Quality Reducers
- Stiff Joints: If the elf’s joints are too stiff, you might struggle to bend them into position, leading to frustration.
- Fragile Clothing: Clothing that easily snags or rips limits the fun poses you can create.
User Experience and Use Cases
The Elf on the Shelf is designed for families with children, usually aged 3 to 10. The core use case is creating daily morning surprises.
Setting the Scene
Parents primarily use these kits to spark imagination. The elf’s job is to encourage good behavior because “Santa is watching.”
- Daily Setup: Parents need a kit that is easy to position quickly, often before coffee! Kits with strong, flexible limbs simplify this task significantly.
- Creative Scenarios: Think about how you want to use the elf. Do you want simple placements (sitting on a shelf) or elaborate scenes (elf making pancakes)? More poseable elves support complex scenarios.
- Longevity: A high-quality elf serves as a tradition for many years. Investing in a sturdy kit means you won’t need to replace it next Christmas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Elf On The Shelf Kits
Q: What is the standard size of the Scout Elf?
A: Most standard Scout Elves stand about 12 to 13 inches tall. This size works well for perching on mantels, shelves, or peeking out of cabinets.
Q: Do I have to buy a new kit every year?
A: No. You only need to buy the initial kit once. You reuse the elf and the book every year. You only need a new kit if the original elf gets damaged beyond repair.
Q: Can I wash my Elf on the Shelf?
A: Generally, spot cleaning is recommended. If the elf is heavily soiled, check the tag. Many manufacturers suggest gentle hand washing, but you must ensure the internal wire structure dries completely before posing it again.
Q: What is the difference between the Boy Elf and the Girl Elf?
A: The main difference is their appearance. The Girl Elf usually wears a skirt and has eyelashes, while the Boy Elf wears pants. Their size and poseability are usually the same.
Q: Do the kits come with accessories?
A: Some basic kits only include the elf and the book. Many specialty or newer edition kits now include small extras like adoption papers, small toys, or clothing items.
Q: How do I make the elf stay in a pose?
A: Quality kits have internal wires that allow you to bend the arms and legs into position. You must bend them carefully to maintain the pose without straining the seams.
Q: Are there alternative elves besides the standard red ones?
A: Yes! The company now offers different color variations, such as blue or white elves, and sometimes special themed characters like superheroes or reindeer. These usually follow the same quality standards.
Q: What age group is this tradition best suited for?
A: The magic truly captivates children between the ages of 3 and 10. Older children might still enjoy it, but younger ones usually embrace the concept of the watching elf most enthusiastically.
Q: Should I choose an elf with accessories or stick to the basic version?
A: If you enjoy creating elaborate scenes, an accessory pack adds value immediately. If you prefer simpler morning setups, the basic elf and book provide plenty of fun on their own.
Q: Where should I store the elf during the off-season?
A: Store the elf and book in a cool, dry place, ideally in the original box or a plastic container. Avoid extreme heat, which could damage the fabric or the wire armature.