Baby Shower Gift Ideas That Won't Put A Strain On Your Busy Schedule Or Your Budget

Posted on September 17, 2006

by Lesley Mattos

Of course the one thing new babies need the most is love, but the list of supplies and equipment that new parents need to outfit and care for their new arrival is mind-boggling! When trying to decide on a gift, it's easy to get overwhelmed — especially if it's a couple's first child. Should you chip in with other friends or family members to get one of those big ticket items like a crib or a deluxe stroller? And if you get clothes, should you get stuff they can use right away, or those great toddler options that are out there?

Here are six other fun and functional baby gift ideas that won't put a strain on your busy schedule or your budget:

Baby Album of Firsts

While the pregnancy itself may seem to take an eternity, once the baby is born, time flies by at warp speed! As new parents, they're going to feel a longing to capture as many of the "firsts" as possible — the baby's first smile, laugh, roll over, solid food, crawl, word, step, tooth, etc. The list of events is endless, and so will the memories be with a baby photo album of firsts. That's why, as Founder of Adesso Albums, I am passionate about helping parents capture the "now" of their children's most precious moments.

Bib-a-Day

Okay, we know that once babies start eating "real" food, it's more like a bib-a-minute, but don't you think that new parents would appreciate a week's worth of bibs? Check out the choices at your local baby or department or discount store. You can get the same bib in a variety of colors. Go for a cute animal theme or get seven bibs that are completely different from each another. Does Dad or Mom have a favorite sport? Check online and you're sure to have an instant winner with an "official" team bib.

Bundle of Basics

Many essential baby products are small and inexpensive and combining a whole bunch of them can make a terrific and useful gift. Baby lotion, shampoo, mild soap, diaper rash ointment, Vaseline, washcloths, itsy-bitsy fingernail clippers, a brush and comb set, tub toys, a teething ring… the list goes on and on! You can put the goodies in a pretty basket, a small hamper, or just wrap it all up in a receiving blanket and you're good to go!

A Heap o' Wipes

Any experienced parent knows that you can never have too many diaper wipes. So go to your local club/warehouse store and buy the biggest package of baby wipes you can find. (Go ahead, splurge, buy two!) Throw in an economy-sized box or two of diapers, wrap it all up with a big bow, and just like that, you'll have made things easier for harried new parents. It may not be the prettiest present they get, but it's for sure the most practical!

Baby's First Book

What was your favorite book when you were growing up? Odds are it was a classic that is still delighting youngsters today. If you still have that book and it's in good condition, you can add a handwritten inscription and you'll have an instant heirloom. Or pick up a nice, new hardcover edition and add an inscription about what this book has meant to you. Since it will be a while before the baby will be able to appreciate the special book, consider adding a few inexpensive toddler board books that can be enjoyed sooner.

Gift Card

In a rush? Out of ideas? How about getting a gift card that the new parents can use at their local baby or department or discount store? That way, you'll know for sure that they're getting what they want and need. Or for a sure-to-be-appreciated change of pace, buy a gift certificate for a nice local restaurant and offer to baby-sit one evening so that Mom and Dad can get some quality time for themselves… and make sure they go!

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