New Baby Gifts - What to ask for (a guide for the parents-to-be)
Finding the best new baby gifts just got easier. Our carefully curated selection of new baby gifts at affordable prices can fit any budget. Find everything you need right here!
Diapers
- Should you go with cloth diapers or disposable diapers? Cloth diapers are reusable, so you don't have to constantly replace them. As a result, they're often seen as more economical and environmentally friendly than disposables. That said, new parents may not want to deal with the extra work involved in cleaning and maintaining cloth diapers after a busy day of caring for their baby. Disposable diapers tend to be easier to use and pose less of a financial burden in the short term.
- If you choose disposable diapers, purchase two to four packs. Newborn babies need up to 10 diaper changes per day, and this number can increase as your baby starts eating solid foods. With that being said, it's best not to buy too many disposable diapers right away because babies can go through different sizes quickly—in the first few months alone you'll probably see your little one move from size 1 all the way up to size 4.
- When choosing which diaper sizes to buy, refer to the weight ranges listed on packagings: Size 1 is usually made for babies weighing 8–14 pounds (3–6 kilograms), while Size 4 works for those weighing 22–37 pounds (10–17 kilograms).
- Stick with popular diaper brands like Pampers or Huggies if you want quality assurance since these companies are known for making high-quality products that are gentle on sensitive skin. Costco also offers high-quality diapers.
new baby gift: Baby monitor
Congratulations on the new baby! You probably appreciate any new baby gifts you can get right now, but if you were wondering what to ask for, or want to give a gift that will really be appreciated, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to baby monitors.
In general, it's good to choose one that is easy to use and super reliable. Most monitors these days charge through USB cables as well as with batteries (which can be expensive).
Some have video components, which is not vital but does help you see if your little bundle needs an extra blanket or something else. And there are ones that allow parents who live apart from each other to both view what their baby is doing via an app on their phone. If your budget allows it and this describes your situation, those would work great for you!
As far as cost goes, baby monitors range anywhere from $20 for the most basic type up into the hundreds of dollars for more advanced models with video viewing capabilities.
Most reviewers say that even though the price tag may seem high at first glance, it's worth it because they don't want anything cutting out while they're trying to see what their adorable bundle of joy has been up to!
Baby Books
Baby books are timeless treasures and such a wonderful keepsake for your child. You will look back and reminisce on the days when they were small.
Here are some books that are perfect for each stage of the first year:
- For 0-12 months - any picture books (babies love books with other babies in them), Guess How Much I Love You, Goodnight Moon
- For 12-24 months - Maybe My Baby, Rainbow Fish
- For 24-36 months - Brown Bear Brown Bear, No David
gift cards or Money
Getting money for your baby shower is convenient, always needed and much appreciated. But how do you ask for it without sounding tacky or rude?
If you are traveling for your baby shower and coming from out of town, it can be hard to take all of your new baby items home with you. In this case it is appropriate to ask guests to bring a gift card to make traveling smoother.
Gift Card: New babies require a lot of gear - and you never know what you might need until the baby actually comes.
Savings Bond: This may feels like an out-dated present that only grandparents would give, but you could actually start your baby off with a healthy college fund if you put some money into this gift.
A Service You Need: a year’s worth of diapers, a meal service, house cleaning service
Day Out For The Parents: Babies are tiring! Help parents relax and enjoy themselves without their little one by paying for an afternoon at a spa or day trip to scenic location — or both.
A family heirloom gift
Another option for a baby gift is in giving an heirloom or a family memento. This idea is perfect for those who have something of sentimental value that they’d like to pass down to the next generation.
Again, it doesn’t have to be expensive but rather have meaning and value with both the giver and the receiver. It could be a toy or special blanket you had as a child or perhaps a piece of furniture that has been passed down from generation to generation.
If you think about it, some of our favorite things growing up were gifts given by others because they held significant meaning and value, not because they were purchased at a store.
If you want something bigger, the Dock-A-Tot is great to give (and receive)
For something bigger, the Dock-A-Tot is a great new baby gift. It's a portable, plush lounger that's safe and comfy for baby. It's great for tummy time, cuddling, and supervised lounging. The cover is removable and machine washable. It has rave reviews from pediatricians and moms alike.
Baby-wearing wraps and slings always make great new baby gifts
These handy items come in all colors and patterns, and are usually made from soft cotton. They fit the body closely, so parents can carry their babies in them hands-free.
There are two main types of slings: wraps and pouches. Wraps are long pieces of cloth that need to be tied on properly; it may take practice to get the hang of them, but they let you position your baby high up on your chest, close to your face.
Pouches have straps like a backpack (though they're much smaller) and more closely resemble traditional carriers such as the popular Baby Bjorn; they slide over the head easily but require more fiddling once the baby is inside. Either way, always make sure you can see your child's face at all times while he or she is in the sling!
A nursing pillow
A nursing pillow can be a great new baby gift. Good brands include My Breast Friend and Boppy. Both of these brands make great nursing pillows that offer good back and neck support. They also help position baby correctly for breastfeeding.
The best thing about these upholstered cushions is their portability. You can stash them in a bag and bring them with you on the go.
baby swing
A swing allows you to lull your baby to sleep with gentle rocking motions and vibration, which can be a lifesaver when your little one just won't stop crying. Nowadays, most swings are lightweight, portable and easy to store, making it great for parents who travel frequently.
This infant swing comes with an adjustable harness and head support, so you can be sure your baby will stay in place while they enjoy their first ride on the swings. It even has an overhead mobile featuring 3 soft toys to keep baby entertained.
baby supplies
New baby gifts: Practical baby supplies are always a good idea, and are always needed. Buy a bunch and bundle them up in a cute gift basket!
Some popular items are:
- receiving blankets
- washcloths
- baby socks and hand mits (so they don't scratch themselves)
- sensitive skin baby lotion, ointments, diaper rash cream, etc
- baby rattles and toys
- diapers/wipes
Whether you're looking for the perfect new baby gift, or if you're expecting a new bundle of joy, we hope this guide was helpful in pointing you towards the best baby products and practical gifts available.
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