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When choosing baby gifts, you run the risk of getting it wrong, whether it’s inadvertently buying something that doesn’t align with the parents’ child-raising principles, or simply something they already have. My personal tip is to buy clothes in the six to 12 months range—since everyone will give them newborn clothes (it’s tough to resist, I know, they’re absolutely adorable), it’ll be a relief for the parents a few months down the line to find that suddenly-chubby little one still has something in the closet that fits. Whatever you choose, you’re certain to find some good ideas on our expert-curated list of the best baby gifts for newborns.
Our top picks for the best gifts for newborns
Best baby bibs gift for newborns: Bumkins Bibs
You truly won’t believe how many baby bibs a little one goes through once they start on solids, so honestly, this is one of those can’t-go-wrong gifts you’ll never have too many of. “Bumkins presents an assortment of vibrant and waterproof bibs that infuse mealtime with a touch of flair,” says Jeff Mills, director at Baby & Co. “These adaptable bibs are available in various sizes, catering to both infants and toddlers. With the convenience of being machine washable and reusable, Bumkins bibs are your reliable companions through the inevitable messy moments of dinner time.”
Price on publish: $18.95 for pack of three
What we like:
- Loads of color and pattern options
- Waterproof
- Machine washable
What we don’t like:
- A few customer reviews complain the pocket doesn’t catch food reliably
Bumkins Baby Bibs SuperBib 3-Pack Baby & Toddler Ages 6-24 Mos (Rainbows & Unicorns)
Best high chair baby gift for newborns: Cybex Lemo 2 Highchair 4-in-1
“A noticeable trend is emerging towards highchairs designed to evolve with your child, providing longevity beyond the typical 6-12 month usage period,” says Mills. “While multi-stage highchairs that transform from baby to teen might come with a higher initial cost, they offer exceptional value over the long run.” With that in mind, he recommends Cybex’s Lemo 4-in-1, which can be adapted to go from infant, to toddler, to child, to teenager, so over time you can really compare which is actually the messiest. Shopping tip: Want even more options? Check out our list of the best high chairs for babies.
Price on publish: $449.95
What we like:
- Long-lasting
- Adaptable
- Innovative
What we don’t like:
- Expensive
CYBEX Lemo 2 Highchair 4-in-1 Set in All White at Nordstrom
Best clothing-related baby gifts for newborns: Kibaga Wooden Baby Closet Dividers
Consider this helpful suggestion from Sarah Huff, gear expert and senior manager, customer and community, at BabyQuip: A beautiful set of wooden closet dividers, designed to help new parents organize all their tiny one’s clothing by age and size.
“Navigating the world of baby clothes selection can indeed be a challenge,” says Mills. “It's not uncommon to find yourself overwhelmed by the array of options, resulting in purchasing items that go unworn. A practical approach is to begin with the essentials,” explained Huff.
Price on publish: $16.99
What we like:
- Unique gift
- Useful
What we don’t like:
- A handful of customer reviews complain of missing and/or duplicate dividers in their set
Kibaga Wooden Baby Closet Dividers
Best educational gift for newborns: Taf Toys Newborn Developmental Gift Set
Most parents want to start stimulating their child’s mind early, inspiring them to explore and figure out the world around them. Taf Toys’ newborn developmental gift set features an array of 12 cute, colorful developmental products that will encourage baby to focus their vision, make the most of tummy time, and figure out how to grab and manipulate objects.
Price on publish: $26.99
What we like:
- Expansive
- Educational
- Cute
What we don’t like:
- Cardboard cards aren’t waterproof
Taf Toys Newborn Developmental Toy Kit, Perfect for Boys and Girls, Includes 12 Essential Baby Boy and Girl Toys for Learning and Stimulation, Ideal New Baby Gift Basket
Best baby rocker gift for newborns: 4Moms Rockaroo Rocker
“The realm of baby swings has witnessed remarkable advancements in recent times,” remarks Mills. “These modern swings come equipped with MP4/iPod connectivity, allowing you to play your baby's beloved tunes. At the forefront of this new wave of baby swings is 4Moms' Rockaroo, setting the benchmark for innovative features and functionality in this category.” Indeed, with its soothing, rhythmic front-to-back motion, you’ll wish you could take a nap in it yourself.
Price on publish: $159.99
What we like:
- Machine washable, removable fabric
- Five motion settings
What we don’t like:
- Seat doesn’t recline flat
rockaRoo¬ baby rocker
Best baby blankets gifts for newborns: Clair de Lune Cellular Blankets
“Baby blankets are an essential addition to any bedding collection,” says Mills. “Apart from offering snug warmth in the baby's crib or cot, they also prove versatile for swaddling. What's more, the familiar scent of a baby's cherished blanket brings a sense of comfort, especially in unfamiliar environments. We recommend Clair de Lune cellular blankets, which come in a range of colors and sizes, from crib up to cot bed size.”
Price on publish: $42.98
What we like:
- Super soft
- High quality
What we don’t like:
- On the pricier side for a baby blanket
Clair de Lune Cot Bed/ Cot Extra Soft Cotton Cellular Blanket (Blue)
Best soft toy baby gifts for newborns: Steiff Soft Cuddly Friends
You can never be sure which of their mountain of stuffed animals your child will latch onto as their inseparable buddy, but one of these has a better-than-average shot. “If you're in search of the epitome of soft toys, your quest ends with Steiff,” says Mills. “Established in 1880 in Germany, Steiff offers a remarkable range. Whether you're looking for a cherished companion for a newborn or a classic piece to evoke nostalgia, Steiff's soft toys encapsulate unmatched craftsmanship and enduring appeal.”
Price on publish: $28.95
What we like:
- Super soft
- Machine washable
What we don’t like:
- Nothing. What are we, monsters?
Steiff Soft Cuddly Friends My First Hoppie Rabbit 10", Premium Stuffed Animal, Cream
Best diaper bag baby gift for newborns: PacaPod Picos Pack Diaper Bag
For the first couple years of having a baby, the diaper bag replaces virtually everything else you own as your one must-have item any time you leave the house. For that reason, it’s vital to get one you like. “Diaper and nappy bags have undergone a fashionable transformation, emerging as essential accessories for modern parents,” says Mills. “Our endorsement goes to PacaPod changing bags, as they seamlessly blend style with practicality. With their innovative design and aesthetic appeal, these bags not only reflect your fashion sensibilities but also cater to the functional demands of parenting.” Shopping tip: Browsing for yourself? This bag is available at Nordstrom, which also made our list of the best places to buy maternity clothes.
Price on publish: $190
What we like:
- Stylish
- Practical
- Unisex
What we don’t like:
- A little pricey for something you’re going to stuff full of diapers and soiled onesies
PacaPod Picos Pack Diaper Bag in Carbon at Nordstrom
Best bedtime baby gifts for newborns: aden + anais Essentials Wrap Swaddles
Swaddling your kid can take some trial and error–some kids will only sleep when fully tucked in with the severity of a Victorian straightjacket, while others will thrash about and cry until one or all limbs have been freed from this snuggly prison. For those wanting to save a little time with the swaddling process, velcro swaddles are a good way to go. “Velcro swaddles take the guesswork out of swaddling,” says Huff. “This is one gift I personally give all parents.” She recommends aden + anais’ swaddles, which feature a handy zip at the bottom, allowing you to change the baby’s diaper without completely unswaddling them.
Price on publish: $31.99 for pack of three
What we like:
- Loads of color and pattern options
- Allows for swaddling with arms in or out
What we don’t like:
- A minority of customer reviews complain that their kids struggled free too easily
aden + anais Essentials Wrap Swaddles
Best bathtime baby gift for newborns: Stokke Flexi Bath
“Bath time holds immense joy when you have a new baby, yet simplicity remains a priority in busy lives,” says Mills. “For this reason, we wholeheartedly suggest the Stokke Flexi Bath. This ingeniously designed bath offers the best of both worlds–delightful bath moments and effortless convenience.” Handily folding away when not in use, it also features a heat-sensitive drain plug, which changes color to let you know the optimal water temperature for your kiddo.
Price on publish: $36.75
What we like:
- Convenient
- Lightweight
- Non-slip base
What we don’t like:
- A small number of customer reviews complain that it’s not as big as they were expecting
Stokke Flexi Bath
Best useful baby gift for newborns: Boon Lawn Countertop Drying Rack
During our (ultimately fruitless) attempts at getting our kids to drink from a bottle, we spent an inordinate amount of time sterilizing, washing, and drying various parts of bottles and accessories. We found that this cheerful, lawn-inspired drying rack—also recommended by Huff—was a compact, easy way to keep all the baby gear in one place. Even once they’d graduated to solids, it was a handy place to dry off all their bowls, spoons, and everything else that had inevitably gone on the floor in a Pollock-esque swirl of pureed fruits and veggies.
Price on publish: $24.99
What we like:
- Cute
- Convenient
What we don’t like:
- The tree-like drying racks don’t lock into place and can sometimes fall down
Boon Lawn Countertop Drying Rack in Sage Green
What to consider when choosing baby gifts for newborns
“The arrival of a newborn is a special moment, and choosing the right gift can truly enhance the experience,” says Mills. “Whether you're searching for a unique present for your own baby or looking to delight friends and family, there's an array of options that demonstrate love and thoughtfulness.”
With that in mind, here are a few factors you should consider.
Practicality
“Parents really don't need a lot of fancy clothes, shoes, or devices, especially if they haven't asked for them!” says Huff. “Baby sunglasses are cute and fur vests are great for dressing up, but practical and helpful gifts for new parents are what people should consider when shopping. I like to purchase one item from the registry and give one item I found useful as a mom, or that I know will be used all the time.”
Huff goes on to advise to think about what would make those days easier on the parents. Are they bottle feeding? A bottle drying rack and cleaning brush might be a great gift that has been overlooked. Will they be diapering? A diaper caddy that transfers from room to room is super helpful and keeps parents organized.
Longevity
“In the world of newborn gifting, certain gifts have stood the test of time,” says Mills. “Cuddly soft toys, soothing teethers, and comforting blankets are enduring favorites that bring joy year-round. Amidst the ever-evolving landscape of baby gifts, the simple charm of a plush friend remains unmatched.”
Thoughtfulness
“A thoughtful approach worth considering is selecting a personalized gift, uniquely customized to suit a range of occasions, from the joyous occasion of a birth to the solemnity of christenings,” suggests Mills. “This choice imbues your present with a personal touch, creating a lasting impression that resonates deeply with the recipient. Here's a valuable tip: Begin by considering both the baby's age and the specific occasion. For instance, if the gift is intended for a baby shower, practical choices like baby blankets might be perfect. These items are consistently well-received and incredibly handy during the initial months of parenthood.”
Size
“When buying gifts, consider the type of space and location new parents will be in,” advises Huff. “For instance, a full size swing will take up too much space in a smaller apartment and the baby might not even like the swing. A smaller compact or portable swing that folds away would suit the space better.”
Price
“Remember, your gift doesn't need to be extravagant,” says Mills. “There are numerous budget-friendly items that convey your care effectively. For instance, charming activity books designed to engage and nurture young minds through tactile experiences and vibrant colors. By embracing these insights, you can confidently choose a gift that resonates deeply without stretching your budget. Should you find yourself struggling for ideas, a gift voucher from a local baby store is a thoughtful gesture that covers a range of baby essentials, warmly appreciated by any parent.”
How we selected the best baby gifts for newborns
All of our selections were made through a combination of advice from baby industry experts along with a deep dive into the world of infant products. We considered gifts that weren’t just popular, but also were designed with infant development in mind. We also did in-depth research on customer service reviews to ensure a product’s safety, in addition to the overall quality of the product.
The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.