Baby Shower Gifts

Selecting the right gifts can be fun. It can be a headache, too, especially if you aren’t sure what the expecting parents want or need. New parents appreciate gifts of clothing, linens, or equipment, but don’t hesitate to ask them what they already have.
They won’t mind, and you’ll have a better chance of getting them what they can really use.
To get you started, here’s a list of items you can consider. They’re broken down into lists of practical gifts and handcrafted, personalized gifts.

Clothing
Booties and socks
Undershirts (those that snap at the crotch stay tucked in better)
Plastic pants or fancy diaper pins (for parents planning to use cloth diapers)
Hats Mittens Hangers
Tights or hair ribbons Sleepers Shoes Everyday outfits (babies grow fast—provide clothing in larger sizes, too.)
Special occasion outfits
Sweaters
Coats

Nursery
Diapers
Disposable wipes Diaper pail (liner refills are necessary with some brands)
Diaper stacker
Blankets
Waterproof pads
Crib toys
Mobile
Night-light or lamp
Stepstool
Changing table and pad or washable covers
Crib sheets, bumper pads, comforter, or dust ruffle
Crib mattress or waterproof mattress pad
Decorative items such as curtains, blinds, wall hangings, or wallpaper
Bassinet or cradle mattress or sheets
Dresser
Rocking chair

Meal Time
Bottles and nipples in a variety of sizes (liners are needed with some brands)
Insulated bottle wraps
Bottle brush
Dishwasher basket for bottles
Bibs (plastic and cloth)
Burp pads
Spill-proof cups
Spoons
Divided plates
Nursing pillow
Breast pump
Booster seat
Highchair

Hygiene
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo or body wash
Baby detergent and laundry bag
Baby nail clippers
Brush and comb set
Bath thermometer
Bath toys
Tub-spout cover
Hooded bath towels
Washcloths
Bathtub sponge cushion
Bath ring (supports sitting baby in big tub)
Potty chair

Safety
Doorknob covers
Cabinet, drawer, or appliance latches
Outlet plugs
Furniture braces
Furniture corner cushions
Cord shorteners
Babysitter instruction book
Smoke detector
Monitor
Gates

Health
Cotton swabs or balls
Medicine dispenser
Thermometer
Nasal aspirator
Rubbing alcohol
Diaper-rash ointment
Ipecac syrup
Sunscreen
Acetaminophen
Teething ring
Child-care handbook
Medical record book
Humidifier

Travel
Snack cups with lids
Shades for car windows
Diaper bag
Car seat
Stroller
Infant carrier
Backpack
Portable crib

Play Time
Rattles
Balls
Books
Puzzles
Stacking or sorting toys
Musical toys
Push-pull toys
Ride-on toys
Activity centers for baby to sit in or lie under
Bouncing or vibrating seat
Swing
Toy box

Keepsake
Baby book
First-year baby calendar
Photo album
Birthday party planning book
Baby name book
Bank
Photo frames
Growth chart
Jewelry
Music box
Silver heirloom items
Starter savings account

Handcrafted and Unusual Gifts
If items are selected with the mom-to-be in mind, handcrafted and unusual gifts can be the hit of the shower. Making your gift gives it that personal touch that's sure to be highly appreciated. If you're buying your gift at a craft fair or boutique, know that the gift may not be returnable, so be sure it's in perfect condition — and perfect for its recipient — before you buy it. Here are some ideas:
Baby bonnet made from a lace handkerchief
Bottle cozies
Wall hangings
Personalized puzzle or stepstool
Personalized quilt
Hand-knit sweaters
Coins minted in the year of the baby's birth
Embroidered training pants
Fabric wall organizer with pockets
Personalized porcelain baby bank
Handmade cloth baby's book
Fabric rattles
Diaper covers
Elegant baby basket
Framed newspaper front page and horoscope from the baby's birthday

Gifts for Siblings
If the expectant parents have other children, consider giving the kids each a small gift, too. Siblings can feel left out as the family prepares for a new brother or sister. Don’t forget the siblings – they’ll appreciate the attention.

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