Welcoming a new baby into the world is a momentous occasion, filled with joy, excitement, and a little bit of chaos. Whether it’s for a baby shower, a first birthday, or just to show your love and support for new parents, finding the perfect gift can be a delightful yet daunting task. With so many options available, it can be hard to determine what will truly be useful and appreciated. In this blog post, we will explore a variety of gifts for babies that every parent will love, covering essential items, thoughtful keepsakes, and fun accessories that will make life with a newborn that little bit easier.
1. Gifts for Babies
Baby Essentials
When it comes to baby gifts, essentials are always a safe bet. New parents often find themselves overwhelmed with the sheer number of items they need to care for their little one, so gifting practical items can be incredibly helpful. Here are some must-have baby essentials that every parent will appreciate:
Nappies and Wipes
It may not be the most glamorous gift, but nappies and wipes are essential for any new parent. Consider putting together a nappy cake—a creative arrangement of nappies that looks like a cake. This not only provides a practical gift but also serves as a charming centerpiece for a baby shower. You can also include a variety of sizes, as babies grow quickly and will need larger sizes sooner than expected. Any parent would be appreciative of this!
Baby Clothes
Babies grow at an astonishing rate, and they can quickly outgrow their clothes. Gifting a set of baby clothes in various sizes ensures that parents have outfits ready for every stage. Look for soft, comfortable fabrics that are easy to put on and take off. Consider including items like onesies, sleep sacks, and even a cute hat/beanie or two.
This Ruliby Baby Bodysuit and Pant set comes in a range of different colours, and is the perfect starter set for any family, making it an ideal gift. They are super soft and comfortable, and are made of 100% cotton. These are everyday essentials for babies, and newborns in particular. With clothes, the best gifts for little ones are those that are simple to put on and layer. And if you don’t yet know the gender, a neutral set is the perfect choice!
Swaddles and Blankets
Swaddling can be a soothing technique for newborns, and a high-quality swaddle or blanket can make a great gift. Look for breathable, soft fabrics that are gentle on a baby’s sensitive skin. Consider options that are versatile and can be used for various purposes, such as a play mat or stroller cover. A personalized blanket with the baby’s name can also add a special touch.
The Love to Dream Swaddle’s are beautiful quality, snug swaddles that zip up for easy use. They come with a natural “arms up” position for babies so they can still use their hands to self-soothe, which can be essential in helping babies sleep. They are hip-healthy and safe for babies, and provide peace of mind to parents that they won’t fall off or unravel in the night. They make the perfect gift for any family!
Feeding Supplies
Whether parents choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, feeding supplies are essential. A set of bottles, a bottle brush, and bibs are all great options. For those who plan to introduce solids, a baby food maker or silicone feeding utensils can be thoughtful additions to your gift. In the same category is a nursing pillow, which helps parents to feed their babies more comfortably and conveniently.
The Silicone Baby Food Freezer Tray makes a great, cheap gift idea that will help any new parent when it comes to preparing for solids. It allows parents to make food ahead of time and easily freeze leftovers for a later time. Made of high-grade, quality silicone means it is is a safe and easy food storage option and it comes with a clip-on lid for ultimate convenience. This is a simple gift that any new parent will appreciate.
This Boppy Nursing Pillow is a really helpful gift for any new parents, allowing them to more comfortably feed their baby without having to strain their arms or back. It’s something a lot of parents may not buy for themselves or may not have thought of, but will become an absolute essential in their everyday lives. It is firm, but soft, containing hypoallergenic fiber fill which is safe and comfortable for parents and babies. It also doubles as a tummy time pillow, helping to support those ever-important neck muscles!
Towels
A towel is a must-have baby essential that also makes a super easy gift. If you’re planning on making a hamper, it’s a super practical gift to chuck in. Choose towels made of cotton, and even better if they have cute, fun designs.
This Bubba Blue Koala Hooded Towel is a cute option for baby boys or girls. It is made of super soft, absorbable fabric for everyday bath use and comes in a range of different animal characters. It is a large size, meaning it will fit babies through to toddlerhood. Parents and bubs will love this sweet and handy gift!
Fun and Interactive Gifts
While essentials are crucial, fun gifts can also bring joy and create lasting memories. These items can help stimulate a baby’s development while providing entertainment for both the baby and the parents.
Toys and Teething Rings
Toys are a fantastic way to engage a baby’s senses. Look for colorful, soft toys that are safe for infants. Rattles, plush toys, and sensory balls can all be excellent choices. Toys that also light up and play sounds are great for babies visual and auditory stimulation. Even better if they can interact with them! Although babies don’t start to reach or grasp until around month 2 or 3, these types of toys can still keep them engaged. Teething rings are also invaluable during the teething phase, providing comfort to sore gums. Opt for BPA-free and non-toxic materials to ensure safety.
The Vtech Baby Turn and Learn Cube is a gift for babies of all ages! It’s a fun little activity cube that has so many things to keep a baby busy and entertained. It has sing-a-long songs and melodies, as well as light up buttons that teach animals, shapes and sounds. This is a great gift as it’s one that can grow with babies, it keeps them visually stimulated and eventually helps enrich their developmental stages, such as teaching cause and effect.
This pack of teething rings is a simple, but effective gift for new babies, as babies teethe A-LOT in their first 2 years of life. These teething rings are made from natural wood and BPA free silicone, meaning they are safe to go in baby’s mouth and don’t pose a choking hazard due to the shape and size. Give parents the gift of a soothed and happy baby!
Books
Reading to babies is a wonderful way to bond and promote early literacy. Board books with bright pictures and simple texts are perfect for tiny hands. Consider gifting a collection of classic children’s books, or even a personalized storybook featuring the baby’s name. This gift not only entertains but also lays the foundation for a love of reading.
This Peter Rabbit Book Set is a cute little gift set of books that teaches colours, numbers, shapes and words in a simple, easy to understand format for little ones. They are the perfect size for little hands, and are hard, board books that won’t get destroyed easily! Toddlers in particular are book fiends, so you can’t go wrong with a book set!
Play Mats and Gyms
A play mat or activity gym can provide a safe space for babies to explore and develop their motor skills. Look for mats with vibrant colors, textures, and hanging toys that encourage reaching and grasping. These interactive spaces can keep babies entertained while allowing parents to take a moment for themselves.
This Bellababy 10-in-1 Baby Gym Activity Mat is a soft, machine-washable play mat that comes with a variety of developmental toys for newborns through to toddlers. It is versatile, and can be used as a play mat, tummy time mat, baby gym centre and ball pit. It comes with high contrast animal cloth toys, a mirror and tummy time pillow, to enrich babies’ playing and learning experience. The perfect gift for any new baby that they can use for years to come.
Keepsakes and Personal Touches
Sometimes, the best gifts are those that hold sentimental value. Keepsakes and personalised items can become cherished mementos for both the baby and the parents.
Personalised Baby Gifts
Personalised gifts add a special touch that can make them truly memorable. Consider items like a custom name puzzle, a monogrammed nappy bag, or a personalised storybook. You could even create a custom photo album where parents can document their baby’s milestones and memories.
Handprint and Footprint Kits
Capture those tiny hands and feet with a handprint and footprint kit. These kits often come with non-toxic ink and materials to create a lasting impression of the baby’s little digits. Parents will appreciate the chance to preserve these fleeting moments, and it can make for a beautiful display in the nursery.
This Baby Hand and Footprint Kit is one of the sweetest little gifts that any parents would cherish. This is the perfect baby shower gift, it creates a lasting memory that is unique and sentimental. This kit contains everything needed to create a beautiful little keepsake. It is easy to use, contains baby-safe, air dry clay and comes with a stunning glass cover.
Memory Boxes
A memory box is a lovely way for parents to store keepsakes from their baby’s early years. Consider gifting a beautifully crafted box where they can save items like the baby’s first outfit, hospital bracelet, or special toys. This thoughtful gift can help parents cherish their memories for years to come.
Practical Accessories
In addition to essentials and keepsakes, practical accessories can make life with a new baby much easier. These items can help streamline daily routines and provide convenience for busy parents.
Nappy Bags
A stylish and functional nappy bag is a must-have for any new parent. Look for bags with multiple compartments, easy-to-clean materials, and comfortable straps.
The Hap Tim Nappy Bag Backpack is a large, comfortable bag that contains 18 pockets for easy storage, so there’s plenty of room for everything a new parent needs. It is made of thick sponge padded mesh material that is waterproof, and has thick, wide straps to distribute its weight evenly. One of the best features of this nappy bag is also its stroller strap, so you can just attach it to the pram easily when your back needs a rest. It’s an easy essential item that makes a nice gift for any new parent.
Pram Liners
A pram liner adds comfort and style to a stroller, making it a fantastic gift for parents who love to take their baby on walks. Look for liners made from soft, breathable fabrics that can be easily washed. Choose fun patterns or colors that will appeal to the parents’ taste.
This Suessie Universal Pram Liner is made of 100% cotton, is naturally hypoallergic and antibacterial so it’s made to protect baby’s delicate skin. It helps to protect your pram from general wear and tear as well as spills, therefore, it’s the perfect gift to give new parents!
Baby Carrier
Baby carriers allow parents to keep their little ones close while still having their hands free. There are various styles available, from wraps to structured carriers. Look for options that provide proper support for both the baby and the parent, ensuring comfort during outings.
The Moby Elements Wrap Carrier is a beautiful, practical gift for new parents to allow them the freedom to move and keep their hands free whilst still having their baby close. Whether it’s for strolling around town, running errands, or simply snuggling at home, a baby carrier helps parents stay active while keeping their little one secure and content. Available in a range of styles and materials, they offer versatile support for both parent and baby, making them a gift that’s both meaningful and useful for any new family.
Subscription Boxes
If you’re looking for a gift that keeps on giving, consider a subscription box for babies. Many companies offer monthly deliveries of baby essentials, toys, or books tailored to the baby’s age. This thoughtful gift allows parents to receive new and exciting products regularly, making it a unique and practical choice.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect gift for a new baby can be a rewarding experience, especially when you consider the needs and preferences of the parents. From essential items that make everyday life easier to fun toys that stimulate development, the options are endless. By selecting thoughtful gifts that cater to both practicality and sentiment, you can ensure that your present will be cherished and appreciated.
Whether you opt for baby essentials like nappies and clothes, interactive toys, personalized keepsakes, practical accessories, or even a subscription box, every gift has the potential to bring joy to new parents. Remember, it’s not just about the gift itself, but the love and support you convey through your thoughtful choice. So go ahead, celebrate the arrival of a new baby and make a lasting impression with a gift that every parent will love!
For more ideas, check out my 10 Newborn Essentials Guide.
Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links for which I may earn a small commission for any purchases made.