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April 5, 2024

10 Unique and Practical Baby Shower Gifts Every New Parent Will Love

Welcoming a new member into the family is one of life’s most treasured events.  As friends and loved ones prepare to welcome a new bundle of joy, it’s the perfect opportunity to shower the parents-to-be with love and support. When it comes to finding the perfect gift for a baby shower, why not opt for something unique and practical? Here are 10 ideas that any new parent will appreciate:

Baby asleep in a delivery room bassinet

Swaddles and Plush Toys for the Delivery Room

The delivery room can be an overwhelming and emotional place for new parents. Help them feel more at ease by gifting them with a soft, plush toy and swaddle to cuddle up their little one with during those precious first moments. This also makes for  a great photo opportunity!

It’s a thoughtful and practical gift that will help calm the nerves of new parents as they welcome their little one into the world. It also provides a cozy and familiar object for the baby to snuggle with during their first moments outside of the womb. Swaddles are also versatile as they can be used as a blanket, nursing cover, or even a burp cloth.

Mother's pregnant belly over crib

Sleep Essentials

Ensuring the baby’s sleep environment is cozy and comforting is  important for both the baby and the new parents. A soft, high-quality crib sheet in a fun and playful design is a great gift that will be used every day. Having multiple crib sheets on hand is not only practical for those inevitable late-night changes but also allows parents to switch up the nursery’s theme, adding a fresh touch of whimsy whenever they choose. 

Quality sleep for the baby is quality sleep for the parents. These essentials stand to be unsung heroes in the baby’s nursery, thereby making the crib all the more inviting and calming.

Nursing Essentials

For the new mom navigating the world of breastfeeding, a gift basket brimming with essentials like baby bottles, burp cloths, nipple cream, and even a lactation massager offers a lifeline to comfort and convenience.

Breastfeeding can be a challenging yet rewarding experience, and having these essentials at hand can ease the transition and promote a nurturing bond between mother and baby. These items are often overlooked and can make a huge difference in the new mom’s breastfeeding journey.

Corner of a nursery with a changing table against the wall

Changing Table Essentials

Changing diapers is an inescapable part of the first year of parenthood. A well-stocked change table needs  a change pad, change pad cover, a supply of diapers, diaper cream, and even a dedicated spatula for application, will make the process much smoother for new parents. It’s a thoughtful and practical gift that will be used every day.

Plus, these essentials can help keep the baby clean and comfortable, preventing any diaper rash or irritation.  It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference in the daily routine of new parents.

Bath Time Must-Haves

Bath time is not only an important part of keeping the baby clean but also a chance for bonding and relaxation. A set of soft washcloths and a hooded towel is a practical gift that will be used on a daily basis. You can also add some gentle bath products to the gift basket for an extra touch of pampering.

These essentials not only make bath time more enjoyable for the baby but also help promote healthy skin and prevent any dryness or irritation. It’s a thoughtful and functional gift that both the baby and new parents will appreciate.

Baby sitting in a high chair and putting food in her mouth

Feeding Essentials

The feeding stage welcomes a whole new set of accessories. From bibs and burp cloths to teething toys and utensils, there are endless options for thoughtful and practical gifts.  You can also include a set of silicone feeding mats to make mealtime less messy for the baby and parents.

These essentials not only make feeding time more convenient but also help promote good eating habits and encourage self-feeding as the baby grows. It’s a gift that will continue to be used as the baby grows and develops.

Another option is gifting them a baby food subscription service, providing nutritious and ready-to-eat meals for the baby in those busy days of parenthood. It’s a thoughtful and practical gift that will make mealtime easier for new parents.

Baby play gym on a play mat

Playtime Essentials

Play is not just about fun; it’s an integral part of a baby’s cognitive and physical development. A quilted playmat, baby gym, and a collection of plush toys create an inviting and stimulating play space for the newborn. These essentials can also double as a comfortable and safe spot for tummy time.

Plus, these items will continue to be appreciated as the baby grows and begins to explore and interact with their environment. It’s a gift that promotes healthy development and encourages quality bonding time between parents and baby.

Baby Travel Essentials

For the jet-setting parents-to-be, consider gifting them with some essential items to make traveling with a baby easier. A portable crib or bassinet, car seat cover, and diaper bag are all thoughtful gifts that will come in handy during family outings and trips. You can also include some on-the-go essentials like wipes, changing pads, and a portable bottle warmer.

Traveling with a baby can be stressful, but having these essentials on hand can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for new parents. It’s a gift that shows you care about their well-being and want to make their lives easier as they adapt to parenthood.

Wooden crib against a wall with animal wall decor

Nursery Decor

Creating a cozy and inviting nursery is an exciting part of preparing for the arrival of a baby. A personalized wall hanging or some cute and whimsical decor items can add a special touch to the room. You can also consider gifting the parents-to-be with a newborn photography session to capture these precious early moments.

These decor items not only make the nursery more visually appealing but also create a warm and comforting environment for the baby. It’s a gift that will be cherished for years to come, serving as a reminder of those sweet first days with their little one.

Adorable Humidifier for Baby’s Room

Maintaining a comfortable and healthy environment is crucial for a baby’s well-being, especially during cold and dry seasons. A cute animal-shaped humidifier can add some charm to the nursery while helping keep the air moist and preventing any congestion or irritation.

It’s a practical gift that shows you care about the baby’s health and comfort. Plus, as they grow older, they will love having a fun and playful addition to their room. It’s a gift that can be enjoyed for years to come and brings both practicality and cuteness to the nursery.

When it comes to celebrating the arrival of a new baby, it’s the thought and care behind the gifts that truly resonate with parents.  Choosing practical and nurturing essentials for both the baby and parents is a meaningful way to show your support and love during this special time.  So, whether you are a friend, family member or co-worker, consider these essentials as thoughtful gifts that will make a difference in the lives of new parents.

April baby shower giveaway flyer from Crane Baby

April Baby Showers Registry Giveaway

Don’t miss your chance to participate in the April Baby Showers Registry Giveaway and win up to $1000 of Crane Baby Essentials! It’s a great opportunity to help new parents prepare for their little one by giving them a chance to win all the essential Crane Baby products on their baby registry. Whether you want to submit your own registry or nominate a friend or family member, this giveaway is a wonderful way to show your love and support for new parents. So don’t wait, enter now for a chance to make a difference in the lives of new parents during this exciting time!  The giveaway ends on April 30th, 2024 so hurry and enter today.