Baby Gifts

Gift Registries

Many times, mothers-to-be register at two or three local department stores. They choose the items that they'd like to have given to them for their baby. These choices may include practical items, such as diapers and wipes; comfort items, such as blankets and burp cloths; and specialty items, such as baby books and nursery decorations.

If you really don't have a clue as to what to purchase for a baby gift, ask the expectant mom if she has registered at any local stores. If she has, go ahead and visit one of these stores. Most shops now have automated kiosks that let you enter the name of the expectant parents and pull up a wish list of the items they have selected. You will be able to tell if more than one of the same item is needed, and you will also be able to see if certain items have been bought, eliminating the risk of purchasing something the parents really don't need. For many stores, you can even search online for the wish list and order online, also!

Practical and Comfort Gift Ideas

While everyone loves looking at that darling picture frame, hand-crocheted blanket, or monogrammed towel, practical gifts are necessary items when new parents are trying to prepare for the arrival of their precious infant. Remember, whatever they don't receive as a gift will still have to be purchased, so don't worry if the gift you choose to give is perceived as practical. Practical is also necessary! Practical baby gifts may include the following:

1. Diapers (If you aren't sure of the size, purchase a couple of different sized packages and place the receipt along with your purchase in case they need to be returned.
2. Wipes (The parents of a baby can really never have too many wipes on hand. These will be used even when the baby has become an active toddler!)
3. Toiletry items (You could give a gift box or basket full of such items as baby shampoo, baby wash, diaper ointment, nail clippers, brush, etc.)
4. Burp cloths (Sure, you may notice that the new baby receives quite a few lovely embroidered burp cloths, but do you really think those will be used? Babies spit up a lot! Go ahead and purchase a package of burp cloths to give! They'll be appreciated!)
5. Hooded bath towels and wash cloths (You can often find sets of bath towels and wash cloths, along with a cute tub toy to boot!)
6. Laundry essentials (Babies go through several changes of clothes every day. That's a lot of laundry! Purchasing baby detergent along with a baby spot remover is a great idea for a gift!)
7. Baby blankets (These can be small receiving blankets or larger thermal blankets. They come in lots of colors, textures, and sizes.)

Clothing Related Baby Gifts

Who doesn't like to look at the adorable baby clothing in a department store? When it's time to buy though, what should you choose? A good idea might be to ask the expectant mom what size clothing she needs the most for her baby. People generally buy newborn clothing as gifts, and while quite a bit of this size is needed, it can be overdone. The new mom may tell you that she really needs clothing in a larger size to put away for the future. Of course, you should always include a gift receipt, just in case.

Unique Baby Gifts

If you just have to purchase that one-of-a-kind gift, you really have lots of options. Monogrammed and embroidered baby gifts are wonderful to give and receive. If the new parents know the gender of their baby and have definitely decided on a name, you can have the little one's name placed on a diaper bag, blanket, burp cloth, clothing, and just about anything else you can think of.

More keepsake items might include engraved items, such as silver cups and bowls, wall decorations, a Bible or other book, etc. You get the idea! You could also purchase a casting kit, so that the new parents can cast their baby's hand or foot in plaster to treasure.

Don't Forget the Receipt!

Finally, be sure and give the new parents a gift receipt in case they really don't need the item, it doesn't fit, or they just want to exchange it for a different pattern. Now, go have fun shopping!