Collection of Books
This may seem weird, since clearly the baby cannot read. However, it’s never too early to start reading to the baby! Choose books with bright pictures and hard cardboard pages. A lot of books have tactile elements so the baby can feel fuzzy, smooth, bumpy, rough, etcetera. This really gets the baby’s brain going! It might be nice to include an article or book on the benefits of reading to a baby early (some parents might not think of it). This is an often overlooked gift that is affordable and fun.
Baby Bath ‘Basket’
I know, you really want to shop for tiny newborn clothes, soft blankets, and toys. It is fun, which is these are popular shower gifts. Go for the unexpected though, and get the parents something they can use every day. You can get a baby bath (a basic one is just fine, that is all they will really need). Fill it with bath items like wash rag hand puppets, lotions, aromatherapy baby shampoo, and soft towels. Put a bow on top and you can present a beautiful and truly useful gift.
A Great Diaper Pail
If you decide on this option, do not go for the cheapest. A poor-quality diaper pail is as bad as not having one at all. Go for one that seals properly and that can be opened hands-free. If you can afford to, fill it with newborn diapers, baby wipes, diaper rash cream, lotion and powder. Something that usually gets overlooked is trash bags that fit the pail size. This may not cause a sensation at the shower, but it’s certain to be deeply appreciated.
Baby Bedding Collections
My sister’s favorite shower gift was a beautiful girls baby bedding collection. It had matching sheets, a quilt, baby-safe pillows and even a crib bumper! If you do not know the sex of the baby or prefer a gender-neutral option, look for themed collections like jungle animals or shapes. They often come in primary colors, or in green, yellow and beige. Since they can be expensive, it’s a good choice for a group gift.
Gift Certificate for the Mother
Understandably, the focus is on the new baby. This can leave the mother feeling a little tired and forgotten. While most people avoid a gift certificate, (they are afraid it says that they do not care enough to go shopping), a gift certificate for the mother can be extra special and make her feel valued. Get her one that ties into her likes before she got pregnant, such as coffee, wine, spa treatments, or bath and body shops. Without a doubt, this is a gift that will be loved by the soon-to-be mom.