Books

People often do not think of this gift. After all, the baby cannot read! Studies show, however, that reading to babies activates their brains! Look for books with moving parts or textures (fuzzy, rough, smooth, bumpy). You want bright pictures and cardboard pages. Include a book or article for the parents explaining the benefits of reading to a baby early. This is an affordable gift that can also make for fun shopping!

A [1] Baby Bath Basket

The truth is that it’s much more fun to buy cute items for a baby shower gift. This is why you’ll see so many tiny clothes, adorable stuffed animals and soft blankets as shower gifts. This is exactly why you should aim for something practical. You can get a quality baby bath very inexpensively. Then, to make it look great for the party, you can stuff it with bath-related items like puppet washing gloves, baby shampoo, after-bath robes, bath toys for when the baby is older, and aromatherapy lotions. Add a pretty bow and you have an eye-catching gift they can actually use!

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 [2] Bedding Collections

The big hit of my sister’s baby shower was a [3] girls baby bedding collection. Because they can be expensive though, you may consider it for a group gift where several people chip in. There are hundreds of designs out there. If you do not know the sex of the baby or prefer gender-neutral, look for themes like farm or jungle animals. They’re typically printed in primary colors, or green, yellow, or beige tones.

Gift Certificate

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.