The best baby shower gifts aren't always the ones on the registry. They're the things parents reach for every day in those first months: soft, practical and easy to use one-handed. Here are ideas that get used long after the party, grouped by what they help with.
For bath time
A hooded towel
You can never have too many. The Puddle hooded towel is 31.5 inches square, in a soft cotton and bamboo blend, with an embroidered animal face on the hood. It comes in four styles and fits babies up to 3 years, so it lasts well past the newborn stage.
A bath support
A bath support gives parents a free hand to wash. The Dew bath cushion has a raised headrest and clips over the tub edges. It's for 0 to 12 months and needs an adult within arm's reach at all times.
Clothes that make life easier
Zip-up one-pieces
Every parent learns quickly that zips beat snaps at 3am. The Sprig zip romper is 95% cotton, in sizes 3M to 12M. The Critter fleece romper has covered feet and a zip down one leg, which is handy for colder months.
Tip: buy a size or two up (3 to 6 or 6 to 12 months). Parents usually get plenty of newborn sizes, and babies grow out of them fast.
For changing
A diaper caddy
A caddy keeps everything in one place and moves from room to room. The Tuck diaper caddy has two removable dividers, pockets around the outside and folds flat. Fill it with diapers, wipes and cream for an extra-thoughtful gift.
A portable changing pad
For changes away from home, the Robin changing pad folds to 11.8 by 7.9 inches and has a wipes pocket that works open or folded.
A pretty diaper pouch
The Posy pouch is quilted cotton with embroidered designs, just right for a couple of diapers and a pack of wipes for quick trips.
For feeding
If the parent plans to breastfeed, a light gauze nursing cover is a thoughtful gift. It has an adjustable neck strap and an open neckline to see baby, and comes in six soft colors.
For the nursery
- A soft night light for night feeds. The cordless Glow night light taps on and has three brightness levels. It belongs on a dresser, out of the crib.
- Wall decor. The Lofty hot air balloon set is 13 flat wooden pieces for above a dresser or reading chair, never above the crib.
- Board books with a note from you inside the cover.
Something for the parents
New parents are often forgotten at showers. A meal delivery, an offer to babysit, or a warm babywearing jacket for winter walks all go a long way. The Hearth babywearing jacket has a zip-in front panel that covers baby in a carrier, then zips out to wear as a regular jacket. It runs small, so order about two sizes up.
Shower gift tips
- Check the registry first. If the big items are taken, practical extras are always welcome.
- Include a gift receipt.
- Bundle small things. A towel, a romper and a board book make a lovely set.
Questions parents ask
What's a good baby shower gift under $30?
A hooded towel, a zip romper, a diaper pouch or a couple of board books are all useful and easy to wrap.
Should I buy newborn size clothes?
Go bigger. Most families have plenty of newborn sizes, and babies outgrow them within weeks.
Is it OK to give something off-registry?
Yes, especially practical items. Add a gift receipt so it's easy to swap.
Need the full list? See our baby registry checklist.
