They won’t get the oohs and aahs at the baby shower, and they may not be quite as much fun to shop for as cute outfits or cuddly toys. But practical baby gifts are guaranteed to be put to good use long after baby has outgrown that ruffly pinafore or linen sailor suit. Here are five ideas for can’t-miss favorites that new parents will be thrilled to have on hand.
1. Bib-a-Day Bundle
In truth, once babies start eating solid food, they go through a bib a minute (or at least it feels that way). But all the same, any new parent would appreciate a week’s worth of bibs. Check out the choices at your local baby shop, department store, or discount store. You can get a single bib style in a variety of colors — go for a cute animal theme or buy seven bibs that are completely different from one another. Does Mom or Dad have a favorite sports team? Browse fan merchandise online and you’re sure to find an instant winner.
2. Basket of Basics
Many essential baby products are small and inexpensive, and combining a bunch of them can make a terrific, useful gift. Baby lotion, shampoo, mild soap, diaper rash ointment, Vaseline, washcloths, itsy-bitsy fingernail clippers, a brush and comb set, tub toys, teething rings — the list goes on and on. Put the goodies in a lined wicker or canvas bin, which will come in handy for storage after the baby is born.
3. Heap o’ Wipes
Experienced parents know you can never have too many diaper wipes. Buy the biggest package of wipes you can find — if you belong to a warehouse chain such as Costco or Sam’s Club, you’ll usually find jumbo boxes in stock. Throw in an economy-size box or two of diapers, wrap it all up with a big bow, and just like that, you’ll have made things easier for the harried new parents.
4. Baby Linens
It’s hard to have too many receiving blankets, washcloths and crib sheets. Buy a set or two of each and present them in a pretty hamper. If you don’t know the baby’s gender or the theme of the nursery, stick to neutral, unisex colors and patterns.
5. Gift Card
In a rush? Out of ideas? Get a gift card that the new parents can use at their local baby or big-box store. That way, you can guarantee that they’ll get what they want and need. Or for a change of pace, buy them a gift certificate for a local restaurant and offer to babysit one evening so they can have some quality time to themselves. Make sure they take you up on it!
BDST: 1403 HRS, APR-03, 2014
