The Best Baby Shower Gifts for New Parents in 2025

practical baby shower gifts

“Practical” might not sound as fun, but a new parent will be so grateful for anything that is essential to their baby’s health and wellbeing. Here are just a few practical baby shower gift ideas:

Baby Baths

A portable baby bath provides a safe and convenient space for parents to bathe their little one, whether it’s in the bathtub or the sink.

Baby Washcloths

Soft and gentle washcloths are must-haves for cleaning up the baby in the bath or anywhere—having a nice stash on hand really helps with frequent cleanups.

Baby Bath Mitts

Bath mitts are not only practical but also fun, adding an element of play to the baby's bathing routine.

Hooded Baby Towels and Robes

Hooded towels and robes keep the baby warm and cozy after a bath. Hooded towels are especially great because they keep little ones’ heads warm and dry.

Diapers and Diaper Essentials

Probably the most essential pairing, diapers and diaper bags top the must-have list. Consider buying different diaper sizes or gifting a diaper subscription—babies grow fast!

Baby Shampoo, Soap, and Lotion

A baby’s skin is delicate and sensitive and needs to stay moisturized, so high-quality baby care products are really practical and essential gifts.

Baby Bibs and Burp Cloths

Bibs and burp cloths are useful in many ways, including keeping the baby protected from spit-ups, drool, and sticky hands so they stay dry. Parents can never have enough of these, so a pack of 3-6 makes a great add-on to your shower gift, too.

Bottles and Bottle Sterilizers

Keeping things hygienic and safe for baby is rule #1, but it’s also a lot of work. Gifting a bottle sterilizer helps with convenience and allows new moms who breastfeed to prep ahead with ease.

Nursing Pillows

Nursing pillows are a great aid to provide comfort and support for breastfeeding mothers, making them an excellent gift for both mom and baby.

Baby Clothes

Always a popular choice for baby shower gifts. Onesies are an obvious choice for newborns as they’re easy to put on and off. Don’t forget about socks, booties, shoes, but remember that newborns outgrow sizes pretty quickly so it’s a good idea to gift something they can grow into for at least a few months.

baby shower gifts for the nursery

The nursery is a special bonding space, so gifts that enhance the nursery's environment in a way that balances fun and functionality are sure to be a hit.

Crib

The crib is a big investment and the most important item in the nursery. Find a high-quality crib, and consider a good convertible crib so parents can continue to use it as a toddler bed.

Crib Fitted Sheet

100% organic cotton crib fitted sheets are always best for sleep. They’re also breathable, which is great for temperature regulation if the baby gets hot while sleeping.

Crib Quilt

Add a touch of warmth and style to the nursery, making it a lovely gift that can be cherished for years to come.

Swaddle Blanket

These are soothing gifts, helping newborns feel secure while promoting better sleep. Look for high-quality organic cotton.

Stroller Blanket

A good, versatile companion to stroller outings, a light stroller blanket keeps the baby cozy on a cool day or shades them from the sun.

Sleeping Sacks

When the baby is transitioning out of a swaddle but still too young for a blanket, sleeping sacks are a safe alternative and keeps the baby warm.

Baby Sound Machine

A white noise machine or a baby sound machine that plays soothing sounds like lullabies, help at bedtime to create a soothing atmosphere.

Night Light

Add a night light to create the ultimate soothing environment, and create a soft glow in the nursery.

Baby Monitors

These allow parents to keep a close eye on their little one, providing video, audio and peace of mind.

baby gear shower gift ideas

Big ticket items, such as a crib, car seat and rocking chair, are the gifts new parents will need the most. Especially for travel, strollers and baby carriers are really useful, whether you’re cruising around the block, staying the weekend at Grandma’s or taking a vacation with the family.

Strollers

Strollers are essential for parents and should be as high-quality as possible. Some features to consider: easy maneuvering, one-handed quick fold, compact to fit in smaller spaces.

Car Seats

Another important investment is the car seat, not only for safety reasons but also because babies will continue to need them for several years as they grow into big kids. You’ll want a brand that’s trusted and tested, and simple to install with rear-facing capability. Check out Crate & Kids’ collection of only the best baby gear brands.

Baby Wraps

Baby wraps or baby carriers offer a hands-free way for parents to keep their baby close. They’re great for promoting bonding, and practical for parents while on the go.

High Chairs

High chairs are essential as the baby starts eating their meals at the table with everyone else. You’ll want something durable, easy to clean and easily adjustable.

Baby Bouncer Chairs

A good-quality ergonomic baby bouncer chair promotes natural rocking and keeps babies entertained. These can get pricey, so are a really lovely gift for new parents.

Diaper Bags

A really well-designed diaper bag that still looks stylish allows parents to carry all the essentials wherever they go and feel put together.

developmental toy baby shower gifts

Developmental toys can help the baby get a feel for the world around them. Here are some baby shower gift ideas that promote development and engagement:

Baby Board Books

Introduce the joy of reading at an early age with durable and baby friendly board books. An interactive board book is a great way to involve little ones who haven’t yet learned to read.

Stacking & Sorting Toys

These toys can promote hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills and foster creativity. From building blocks to toys that practice sorting categories like animals, shapes or numbers, these toys help babies develop their problem-solving abilities, too.

Rattles

Stimulate the baby's senses with things that promote sensory exploration and development. Rattles are classic toys that don’t take up a lot of space, and develop their auditory and sensory skills.

Activity Gyms, Play Mats, & Play Mat Gyms

Interactive and stimulating, activity gyms and mats often feature textures, sounds, colors and toys that babies will reach for again and again as they grow and develop.

personalized baby shower gifts

Adding a monogram or a name to your personalized gift creates a keepsake that parents, and later the child, can cherish for years to come.

Personalized Baby Blankets

Make it their favorite snuggling blanket that feels truly theirs.

Personalized Baby Towels

Add a name to a towel and make bath time extra special.

Personalized Baby Robes

Both fun and functional, a baby robe adds an extra touch of luxury and uniqueness.

baby shower gifts for parents

Everyone will be focusing on gifts for the baby, so show some love to the parents as well!

Gliders and Rocking Chairs

A rocking chair in the nursery can still feel modern and stylish enough to transition into the living room one day. These provide a comfy place for parents to sit and bond with baby, but they are big investments so consider going in on a group gift.

Ottomans

A matching ottoman for the glider or rocking chair adds an extra level of comfort, and some of them have hidden storage as well.

Gift Card

Add a gift card to supplement your baby shower gift, or stick to a gift card if you’re ultimately unsure about what to bring to the shower. It’s a perfectly acceptable gift that lets the parent choose what they need.

Remember that, no matter what, it truly is the thought that counts. Keep these ideas in mind when you think about your baby shower gift, and you’ll be sure to make the parents-to-be thrilled. We’d love to see what you got! Share your best baby shower gift ideas with us using the hashtag #CrateKidsStyle.