We’ve been in the trenches of early motherhood. We know the difference between a gift that gathers dust and one that saves the day at 3 a.m.
To save you time, we’ve curated a list of gifts that strike the perfect balance between meaningful, practical, and actually cool. From budget-friendly essentials to unique keepsakes, here are the best baby shower gifts that parents will actually use.
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What to Look For
Finding the perfect gift doesn’t have to be a guessing game. We’ve learned exactly what makes a present stand out in a sea of diaper cakes. Here is what to keep in mind while you shop.
Practicality Is Queen
Start with the basics: does the new mom have a registry? If she does, stick to it. She knows what she needs better than anyone else. Also, check if she has revealed the baby’s gender ( source).
If you are going off-registry for clothing, think about the seasons. Buying winter newborn clothes for a summer baby means those cute outfits will never leave the closet. The same rule applies to summer clothes for a winter arrival.
Diapers are the ultimate currency for new parents. Ease that financial burden! You don’t have to just hand over a cardboard box, though. There are plenty of creative ways to make a gift of diapers look amazing, like building a diaper cake ( source).
Aim for Originality
Baby clothes are the default setting for most guests. While cute, they are often outgrown in weeks. If you want your gift to be remembered, look outside the wardrobe. Unique options like a pregnancy journal, a portable high chair, a sound machine, or a personalized item stand out.
If you really want to buy clothes, make them memorable. Look for witty quotes, a quilt featuring the family’s favorite sports team, or a hooded towel shaped like a fox or unicorn.
Durability Matters
Babies are messy and destructive. If you want a gift that lasts longer than the newborn stage, look for toys made from high-quality materials that grow with the child. Good-sized blankets, clothing in 6-9 month sizes, or convertible bottles are smart choices that parents will appreciate down the road.
Make It Meaningful
Keepsakes often end up being the most treasured gifts. Personalized items, like an embroidered blanket, a customized storybook, an engraved silver spoon, or a handprint kit, show you went the extra mile.
If you are close to the family, write a heartfelt letter to the baby for them to read when they turn 18, or a note to the mom offering specific support (like bringing dinner next Tuesday).
Budget Friendly
You do not need to spend a fortune to show you care. Some of the most useful gifts we received were inexpensive essentials. Look for elevated basics, like bath products with calming lavender or a classic board book.
If you are crafty, a handmade gift adds a personal touch that money literally cannot buy.
Don’t Forget Mom
While everyone is cooing over the bump, don’t forget about the mom. She is doing the heavy lifting (literally and figuratively). She is going through massive physical and emotional changes.
Consider a gift just for her, a spa voucher, a cozy robe, or something that makes her feel pampered. And don’t leave Dad out! A funny “diaper duty” kit or a book for new fathers honors his new role, too.
Product Reviews
Handmade gifts carry a special kind of love. If you are crafty, these ideas are sure to impress.
DIY Toy Crates
Attractive Storage
Parents can never have enough storage. A simple wooden crate, painted and personalized with the baby’s name, is incredibly useful.
You don’t need to be an expert carpenter; just some paint and stencils will do. It’s a rustic, custom piece that helps keep the nursery organized.
Knitted Moccasin Booties
Lovable Footwear
If you know how to knit (even a little), these booties are a showstopper. They are warmer and stay on better than store-bought socks.
The pattern is beginner-friendly. You can customize the colors to match the nursery or the parents’ favorite sports team.
DIY Baby Mittens
Lovable Handwear
Newborns scratch their faces constantly. These DIY mittens are soft, simple to sew, and protect that delicate skin.
You only need scraps of fabric, making this a very low-cost project. It’s a great way to use up leftover soft jersey material.
DIY Colorful Binky Clips
Save the Binky!
Pacifiers hit the floor about 50 times a day. A binky clip solves that problem.
These are fast to make and you can create a whole set in different patterns. It’s a small gift that saves parents a lot of washing and sterilizing.
DIY Quote Frame
Pretty Printable
Wall art brings a nursery to life. You can print a sweet quote, add some 3D elements like paper stars or clouds, and frame it.
It’s an inspirational gift that serves as a daily reminder of love. Plus, it’s completely customizable to the room’s color scheme.
FAQs
What Should Grandparents Buy for a Baby Shower?
Grandparents often choose meaningful or “big ticket” items. Popular choices include high-quality gear like a stroller or crib, a contribution to a college savings fund, or a sentimental heirloom like a handmade quilt.
What Can You Put in a Baby Shower Gift Basket?
Fill a basket with a mix of essentials and fun items. Think diapers, wipes, swaddle blankets, onesies, bath products, board books, and a small toy. Don’t forget a little treat for the parents, like chocolate or coffee!
Should You Get a Card for a Baby Shower?
Yes, absolutely. A card adds a personal touch and is often kept as a memento. It’s also the best way for the parents to know who gave the gift when they are writing thank-you notes later.
Does the Hostess of a Baby Shower Buy a Gift?
Typically, yes. Even though the hostess is paying for the party, it is still customary to give a gift. It doesn’t have to be extravagant; a small, thoughtful item or a group gift with other organizers is perfectly fine.
Do People Usually Give Money at Baby Showers?
While boxed gifts are traditional, money or gift cards are becoming increasingly common and appreciated. They allow parents to buy exactly what they need or save for larger items.
Can You Bring Alcohol to a Baby Shower?
This depends entirely on the host and the venue. If it’s a co-ed shower or a “sip and see,” alcohol might be welcome. However, since the guest of honor can’t drink, it’s polite to check with the host first.
Do You Wrap Baby Shower Gifts?
Yes, wrapping is part of the fun! Many showers have a designated time for opening gifts, so having them wrapped (or in a nice bag with tissue paper) adds to the excitement.
When Should I Send a Baby Shower Gift if I Can’t Attend?
If you can’t make it to the party, try to send your gift so it arrives a few days before the shower. This allows the host to display it with the others. If that’s not possible, sending it shortly after the event is also acceptable.
What Is the Difference Between a Shower and a Sprinkle?
A “shower” is usually for a first baby and involves larger gifts and a bigger guest list. A “sprinkle” is a smaller, more casual gathering for subsequent babies, where guests typically bring essentials like diapers or wipes rather than full nursery gear.
