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Best Elf on the Shelf Sets

Updated December 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Elf on the Shelf Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition
Elf on the Shelf
Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition
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Classic Set
Bottom Line

The original Elf on the Shelf kit, which is considered the ideal starter set, comes with a durable box for easy storage.

Pros

A must-read for families during the holiday season—the classic tale by Aebersold and Bell that keeps kids in anticipation of Santa's arrival. Comes with an Elf on the Shelf figure with a choice of colors.

Cons

The elf is a bit flimsy. A few complaints from consumers who received the wrong elf or none at all.

Best Bang for the Buck
The Elf on the Shelf Snow Sports Action Figure Playset
Elf on the Shelf
Snow Sports Action Figure Playset
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Bargain Pick
Bottom Line

This playset gives kids something to play with to keep them away from the main Elf on the Shelf.

Pros

There are multiple pieces of snow sport gear so the Elf can see what they like, from snowboarding to to skiing to sledding. There’s also a helmet, because teaching kids safety is important!

Cons

The pieces are small so it’s not good for the youngest kids.

Elf on the Shelf Elf Pets: A Reindeer Tradition
Elf on the Shelf
Elf Pets: A Reindeer Tradition
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Customer Favorite
Bottom Line

Don't miss out on this adorable reindeer and cute storybook if your child already loves the classic tale of the scout elf.

Pros

A memorable story of how Santa relies on reindeer and the spirit of Christmas to power his sleigh. Comes with a soft, 8.25-inch plush reindeer, which stands on its own. Antlers stand up and won't droop.

Cons

The reindeer isn't very stable when standing. Rare reports of the book arriving without the reindeer.

Elf on the Shelf Elf Pets: A St. Bernard Tradition
Elf on the Shelf
Elf Pets: A St. Bernard Tradition
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Quality Construction
Bottom Line

Consumers are big fans of this St. Bernard's quality construction, as well as the well-written tale that comes with it.

Pros

St. Bernard plush sits up on its own and won't tip over. Tale promotes positive relationships with animals. Collar with barrel is a favorite, unique detail. Consumers say the artwork is impressive.

Cons

Some consumers felt the plush was a bit too small considering the price of the set.

Elf on the Shelf Elf Pets: An Arctic Fox Tradition
Elf on the Shelf
Elf Pets: An Arctic Fox Tradition
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Great First Elf Pets Set
Bottom Line

Many consumers appreciate this Elf Pets set, which introduces kids to arctic foxes through a fun, approachable story.

Pros

Plush has a high-quality texture, which is evident with the arctic fox's bushy tail. Has friendly, bright blue eyes. Storybook has vibrant, engaging pictures and easy-to-read text for beginner readers.

Cons

White fur gets stained or discolored easily. Some reports that the charm necklace breaks rather easily.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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Buying guide for Best Elf on the Shelf sets

As much as kids wish that it were Christmas every day, it only comes around once a year. During that special time, Santa has a lot to do. So much, in fact, that he needs a little help. An Elf on the Shelf can assist Santa by watching over your family during the day and reporting back to the jolly fellow at night.

If your family has never adopted an Elf on the Shelf, there are a few things you'll need to know. First, you will want to learn the story of the Elf on the Shelf so you know how special these helpers really are. Then, there are a few rules you'll need to follow so your elf can have all the magic they need to do their job. The right Elf on the Shelf set will include everything you need.

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The “official” week that elves arrive home is Scout Elf Return Week, which is usually the week after Thanksgiving. However, an Elf on the Shelf can be adopted at any time over the holiday season.

Key considerations

The most important decision to make when purchasing an Elf on the Shelf set is what you need. To keep things simple, we divided all the sets into just two categories: starter sets and accessories.

Starter sets

If you've never adopted an Elf on the Shelf before, you are going to want to know what the elf's powers are, how to name them, and what rules you need to follow so the elf can do their job for Santa. At the very least, an Elf on the Shelf starter set will have an Elf and a story book called The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition. The story provides a history of these magical beings and tells you everything you need to know so Santa can keep track of all the good boys and girls.

Accessories

Accessory sets do not have the elf or the storybook. These sets are for families who have already adopted an elf.

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Did You Know?
If you register your Elf on the Shelf, you will receive a special adoption certificate along with a personalized letter from Santa.
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Features

Elf on the Shelf accessory sets may be divided into four categories: clothing, play sets, Elf Pets, and others.

Clothing

It is great fun for an Elf on the Shelf to get dressed up. For this reason, a variety of sets feature special clothing. If your elf is into sports, likes to dance, wants to be a pirate, or just wants a scarf and coat to keep warm, all of these options and more are available.

Playsets

It can be super exciting when a child comes downstairs and finds their elf engaged in a fun activity. This is the purpose of a playset. For example, if you have a more adventurous elf, he or she might like a ski playset or a set that contains a special elf vehicle. If your elf likes relaxing, a set that enables him or her to read by a fireplace might be more appropriate.

Elf Pets

Elf Pets are furry animal companions. You can get a St. Bernard, a reindeer, or an arctic fox. Unlike the elves, these cuddly critters can be hugged and played with all year long.

Others

Every set that doesn't fit comfortably into one of our first three categories can have a home here. These sets range from children's activity book sets and plush toys to party and tree decorations. There's even an Elf on the Shelf set that allows you to write letters to Santa.

The most important job an Elf on the Shelf has is sitting still and observing. It has been said that the longest an Elf on the Shelf has gone without moving or blinking is 16 days!

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Elf on the Shelf set prices

Elf on the Shelf sets can range from $15 to over $35. When shopping, one fact to keep in mind is that some products might not be official Elf on the Shelf items.

Inexpensive: For $15 to $25, you can get a simple paper product playset or special clothing for your Elf on the Shelf. Dress them in style!

Mid-range: From $25 to $35, you can find the standard Elf on the Shelf set. This set comes with the essentials: an elf and a storybook.

Higher-end: Above $35 is where you'll find bundles that may include an elf, a book, and a playset, clothing, or even a pet. Just about anything goes here.

Dyk2 
Did You Know?
No one knows for sure exactly how old Scout Elves are, but some tales suggest they are over 1,000 years old.
Staff
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Important user information

When can an adult touch an Elf on the Shelf?

The number-one rule is you can never touch your Elf on the Shelf. This goes for parents as well as children. However, there are certain situations when an adult might need to move an elf. In those instances, a parent can use a potholder, oven mitt, or tongs (gently). Here are a few examples of times when an adult can help out an elf.

  • Each morning, after an elf has returned from the North Pole, they pick a special spot to land. This is called a landing spot. If your elf lands on something you need to use (clothing, backpack, etc.), a parent may move the elf.
  • If an elf loses their balance and falls, the nice thing to do is have a parent pick up the elf and move them back to their landing spot.
  • If your elf is in danger (especially from a curious family pet), a parent can come to the rescue.
  • If your elf made a mess when landing, a parent may move the elf so a child can help with cleanup.

What if a child accidentally touches an Elf on the Shelf?

When a child (or a parent) touches an Elf on the Shelf, the elf loses its magic and can no longer fly back to the North Pole to tell Santa all about a child's good behavior. If this happens, it is not a good thing, but you do not have to worry because an elf's magic can be replenished. Here are the top three ways to accomplish that.

1. Not many people know this secret, but cinnamon works like a power-up in a video game. When an elf loses its magic, sprinkling a tiny bit of cinnamon next to the elf can give them just enough magic to get back to the North Pole that night. While there, your elf can see a special elf doctor who can make your tiny friend all better.

2. According to a popular Christmas tale, "The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!" No one loves Christmas cheer more than elves! If an elf loses their magic, a second way to give them enough magic to get to the North Pole that night is by gathering your family so you can all sing a Christmas song together.

3. The best way to get your elf's magic back is by writing a letter to your elf (or even Santa) and apologizing. Being sorry for your mistake means a great deal to your elf (and Santa), and being honest creates very powerful magic that will get your elf back to 100% in no time.

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One of the most exciting moments for an Elf on the Shelf is when they get their name. The most popular Elf on the Shelf name is Buddy, but you can name yours anything you'd like.

FAQ

Q. Does Elf on the Shelf have any other names?

A. An Elf on the Shelf is also sometimes called a Scout Elf. The term “scout” in this case refers to the fact that the elf is observing the family in the weeks leading up to Christmas and scouting for good behavior. Each night, the Scout Elf goes to the North Pole to file a report. The following morning, the elf returns to its family and finds a new spot to watch.

Q. How can I tell the difference between a Scout Elf and a regular elf?

A. A Scout Elf wears the official uniform: a solid red jumpsuit.

Q. What are the three most important Elf on the Shelf rules?

A. First, do not touch your Elf on the Shelf. If you do, the elf will lose its magic. Second, the Elf on the Shelf cannot talk. However, an Elf on the Shelf is an incredible listener. You can tell your Elf on the Shelf anything you'd like. Third, on Christmas Eve, all Elves on Shelves must return to the North Pole to help Santa.

Q. Can you touch an Elf on the Shelf Elf Pet?

A. Definitely! The pets are made to be hugged and loved all year long. As a matter of fact, the more love you give your Elf Pet, the more Christmas magic you will create.