Baby showers are special occasions to celebrate the upcoming arrival of a new baby, and finding the perfect gift is a key part of the celebration. With so many options available, choosing a meaningful and practical gift can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a close friend, family member, or colleague, you want to find something that will delight the parents-to-be and be useful for the baby. This guide will help you navigate the process of selecting a great baby shower gift.
What to Get for a Baby Shower Gift
- Practical Gifts for New Parents
When choosing a gift, it’s essential to consider practicality. New parents will be juggling many responsibilities, and gifts that make their daily lives easier will always be appreciated. Here are a few ideas:
Baby Clothing
Babies grow fast, so a variety of sizes is key. Opt for a mix of newborn and 3-6 month sizes, as well as clothes for slightly older babies, as they’ll quickly outgrow their tiny outfits. Practical clothes such as onesies, sleepers, and hats are great choices. Parents will appreciate the utility of these items, especially if they’re made from soft, breathable fabric.
Diapers and Wipes
It might seem too practical to give as a gift, but trust us, diapers are one of the most essential items for new parents. You can never have too many! Consider buying a large pack or a variety of diaper sizes to ensure they’re stocked up. Along with diapers, baby wipes are also a must-have. You can even get creative and present these items in a fun, decorative way by arranging them in a diaper cake.
Baby Gear
Parents will need a variety of baby gear to keep their little one safe, comfortable, and entertained. A baby monitor, a high-quality stroller, or a portable changing pad are items that will serve them well. If you’re closer to the parents, a higher-end item such as a car seat or a baby carrier can make an impressive gift that will be cherished for years.
- Thoughtful Keepsakes
While practical gifts are always appreciated, keepsake items hold sentimental value and can be cherished for years. These gifts offer parents something to treasure as they watch their child grow. Some thoughtful keepsake ideas include:
Personalized Baby Blankets or Clothing
Personalized items, such as a baby blanket with the baby’s name or initials, or a custom onesie with a fun saying, are wonderful keepsakes. Parents will appreciate the thoughtfulness and the uniqueness of these gifts. You can also opt for monogrammed towels or bibs for an extra touch of personalization.
Baby Books
Start building the baby’s library by gifting a few classic children’s books or personalized storybooks. Baby’s first library will grow quickly, and a thoughtfully chosen book can be a lasting memory. Consider books that are educational and fun, and ones that parents can read aloud during bedtime rituals.
Handprint or Footprint Kits
Capture the tiny moments with handprint or footprint kits that allow parents to create an impression of their baby’s hands or feet. These can be framed or placed in a scrapbook, creating a special keepsake that will be cherished for years.
- Fun and Creative Gift Ideas
Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that surprise and delight. These fun and creative ideas are perfect for bringing a little extra joy to the baby shower.
Baby Shower Gift Baskets
You can create a custom gift basket filled with a variety of items, such as baby lotions, shampoos, bath toys, and soft toys. A basket with a theme can be a fun and personal touch. For instance, a “Baby’s First Bath” basket might include baby towels, washcloths, baby bath products, and a rubber duck. If you’re unsure what to put in the basket, baby shower gift sets are available online, already beautifully arranged.
Toy Sets
While newborns may not play much with toys right away, as they grow, they’ll need plenty of age-appropriate toys. Consider gifting a toy set with colorful, sensory-stimulating toys, plush animals, or educational playthings. Toys that can help with motor skills, like stacking rings or teething toys, are both useful and fun.
Baby Care Items
Consider pampering the new parents with a basket of baby care essentials. Organic baby lotion, a baby bathrobe, baby oil, and soothing massage oils for parents are thoughtful items. A baby’s sensitive skin requires gentle products, so high-quality, hypoallergenic items are always a good choice.
- Group Gifts and Experiences
Sometimes, a group gift is the way to go, especially if you want to give something more significant but don’t want to break the bank.
Gift Cards
If you’re unsure of what the parents need, a gift card to a popular baby store or an online retailer is a great option. This allows the parents to purchase exactly what they need or want, whether it’s a specific item for the baby or something for themselves.
Meal Delivery Service or Housekeeping
For parents who already have many baby items, a thoughtful experience like a meal delivery service or professional housekeeping can make their lives easier. Consider organizing a meal train where friends and family bring prepared meals to the new parents or offer a cleaning service to keep their home in order as they focus on their baby.
Financial Contributions
If you’re not sure what the family needs, contributing financially might be appreciated. This can be in the form of a cash gift or a contribution to a baby fund. It can be especially helpful for larger expenses, such as a new crib, baby furniture, or the cost of medical bills.
- What to Avoid Giving
While it’s always exciting to shop for a baby shower, there are a few things to avoid:
- Overly Fancy Clothing: It’s tempting to buy adorable outfits, but keep in mind that babies outgrow clothes quickly, and some items might not be practical for everyday wear.
- Items Not on the Registry: If the parents have created a registry, try to stick to it. They’ve curated it with specific items they need or want, so veering off-course can result in duplicate gifts or things they don’t need.
- Large Items That Require Storage: Parents may already have a limited amount of space, so large or bulky gifts (like huge stuffed animals) can be more of a hassle than a blessing.
FAQs
Q: Should I get a gift for the mom or the baby?
A: It’s a good idea to focus on the baby, but don’t forget the mom! Baby showers celebrate the upcoming arrival of the little one, but many expectant mothers will appreciate gifts that pamper them, such as spa products, comfortable clothing, or a thoughtful note of encouragement.
Q: How much should I spend on a baby shower gift?
A: The amount you spend depends on your relationship with the parents and your budget. Typically, baby shower gifts range from $20 to $100, but it’s best to give what you can comfortably afford.
Q: What if I don’t know what the parents need?
A: If you’re unsure, gift cards, a cash contribution, or a practical item like diapers or baby wipes are safe choices. If they have a baby registry, that’s the best place to start.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect baby shower gift doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on practical items that new parents will use every day, thoughtful keepsakes that capture special memories, and fun gifts that bring joy, you can make sure your present stands out. Whether you opt for something small and personal or a larger, group-gift experience, your thoughtfulness will be appreciated. No matter the size or price, the most important thing is that your gift brings happiness to the parents and helps them as they embark on this exciting new chapter of their lives.
