Baby shower gifts can get repetitive. Whether you’re shopping for a friend, family member, co-worker, or yourself (hey, why not?), it’s best to look for baby shower gifts that are meaningful but practical. But it’s even better if that gift is also unique.
We’ve spoken with many new moms, and we’ve been there ourselves. We’ve learned what makes a good baby shower gift — the kind that stands out above the rest.
We’ll simplify the process for you by sharing our reviews of original, meaningful, practical, and affordable gifts. And with over 60 items to choose from, you’re sure to find something perfect, whether it be a necessary baby essential or a thoughtful keepsake.
Read on to learn our secrets for finding the best baby shower gift to make life easier for any new mom.
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What to Look For
In our search for the best baby shower gifts, we’ve learned to recognize what features make a gift stand out. These are some things to keep in mind.
Practical
The best place to start is by asking the new mom if she has a registry and if she knows (and is sharing) her baby’s gender ( source). This will simplify the shopping process.
If you’re purchasing clothing, consider the season in relation to the clothing’s size. If you buy winter newborn clothes during the summer, the baby will simply never wear them; the same goes for summer clothes in winter.
Diapers are always a necessity, and it can really help a new parent out if you ease some of that burden. But don’t just wrap up a box of Huggies and call it a day. There are many ways to make a gift of diapers more interesting ( source).
Original
Baby clothes are a go-to gift for many busy baby shower attendees. There’s nothing wrong with buying baby clothes, but if you want your gift to stand out, look outside the outfit. There are many unique gift options, such as a pregnancy journal, baby camping chair, sound machine, or personalized item with the baby’s name on it.
If you want to go with clothing or other more popular gift items, make it stand out. Look for clothing with funny quotes, a quilt with the family’s favorite sports team featured on it, a funny-face pacifier, or a soft towel shaped like an animal.
Durable
I always appreciate a gift that will last, but babies grow and change so quickly. If you want a gift that will stick around for more than a few weeks, look for toys made with durable materials that serve multiple purposes, good-sized quality blankets, clothing that’s larger than newborn-sized, or bottles that convert into sippy cups as the baby gets older.
Meaningful
Keepsakes make some of the most treasured baby gifts. Look for personalized items, such as an embroidered blanket, a book incorporating the baby’s name, an engraved baby spoon, or a gift featuring the baby’s handprint or footprint.
If you’re close to the family, include a handwritten letter for the baby to be read to them when they’re older or a letter to the mom offering your love and encouragement.
Affordable
A gift doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be special. Some of our most treasured or useful baby shower gifts were inexpensive. Look for baby care items that go above and beyond, like a bath product that incorporates lavender for better sleep or a popular read-together baby book.
If you’re crafty, try making your baby shower gift for a unique and personal touch any new mom will appreciate.
Not Just for Baby
All else considered, don’t forget about mom. Months of waiting for the baby to arrive won’t have been easy for her. She’s going through physical, mental, and emotional changes and deserves to be indulged.
You could get her something that will make her feel good, pampered, and proud of what she has accomplished.
Consider a gift for dad too. They often get left out of the baby shower gift loop, and a gift will honor them during this new stage in their life.
Product Reviews
A baby shower is one of the best opportunities to pull out your crafty skills and create the perfect gift. After all, who doesn’t appreciate a homemade gift from the heart?
DIY Toy Crates
Attractive Storage
You can do many things with a wood crate, but this is hands down one of the best. Chances are, the newborn will receive toys, and the parents will buy even more, so storage is simply a must-have.
This gift doesn’t require you to be particularly crafty; you just need to be able to throw some paint on a wood crate. Add embellishments as you desire. You can even use stickers or stencils to add the baby’s name, birth details, or any decorative touches you desire.
This is a personalized gift that the recipients will always remember you for.
Knitted Moccasin Booties
Lovable Footwear
Knitting may be an art but worry not; these instructions are clear, even for beginners. However, it’ll help if you have some basic knitting skills.
These booties are simply too adorable not to try out, and who knows, you might learn that you actually enjoy this craft. These were made for a boy, but if you have a baby shower for a girl or twins, you can make them accordingly.
DIY Baby Mittens
Lovable Handwear
These hand-stitched mittens are just what mommy needs to keep her little bundle of joy toasty and warm. The directions state they’re best for 6-month-olds and up, but some instructions are also given for making smaller mittens.
You only need some fabric and a few accessories to make it happen. No more baby scratches with these simple yet personalized mittens.
DIY Colorful Binky Clips
Save the Binky!
The main problem with pacifiers is how much babies drop them. This is certainly a handy way to keep them clean and healthy.
Binky clips are tiny but useful, so this easy craft will be perceived as a thoughtful gift. They’re quite simple to sew, and you can make several in different patterns using just small pieces of leftover fabrics.
DIY Quote Frame
Pretty Printable
Parents want their kids to know they can be anything they want, right? Well, this frame will be a good reminder. You don’t necessarily have to print this, as you can easily draw and personalize one of your own.
It features a pretty, smiley cloud that has stars hanging down. The stars are beautiful and quite easy to attach. Once you’re done, put it in a frame of your choice, and voila, you have a standalone gift. Or add it to a selection of other items to personalize a gift set for the new mama.
FAQs
What Should Grandparents Buy For a Baby Shower?
Grandparents might choose meaningful or practical baby shower gifts such as a family heirloom, high-quality baby gear, a saving or more frequently bond for the child’s future, or something hand-made like a quilt or knitted outfit.
What Can You Put In a Baby Shower Gift Basket?
In a baby shower gift basket, include items like baby clothes, blankets, bibs, bath products, soft toys, books, and diapers. Tailor the basket to the parents’ preferences and needs.
Should You Get a Card For a Baby Shower?
A card is a nice addition to a baby shower gift, offering a personal touch and space to write your congratulations and well wishes to the parents-to-be.
Does the Hostess of a Baby Shower Buy a Gift?
The hostess of a baby shower typically buys a gift, just like other guests. The gift can be anything from something small and thoughtful to coordinating with other guests for a larger gift.
Do People Usually Give Money At Baby Showers?
Giving money at baby showers is less common but acceptable, especially if the parents have set up a baby registry or fund where monetary gifts are welcomed.
Can You Bring Alcohol to a Baby Shower?
Whether to bring alcohol to a baby shower depends on the host’s preferences and the event’s nature. It’s more common at co-ed showers or when there’s a celebration aspect, but always check with the host first.
Do You Wrap Baby Shower Gifts?
Yes, wrapping baby shower gifts is customary to add to the festive feel of the event. Choose a wrap that’s cheerful and appropriate for the occasion.
