Baby Shower Gifts New Parents Actually Use

Buying for a baby shower can feel tricky. The registry is half gone, the cute outfit might never fit at the right time, and you want something the parents will actually reach for. Here are the gifts that tend to get used the most in those first busy months.

Layette Essentials Gift Set, 19 pieces (from $43.99)

Bodysuits, pants, hats and mittens in one box. Newborns go through several outfits a day, so a full set of soft basics is one of the most useful things you can bring. It also looks lovely unwrapped at the shower.

Muslin Swaddle Blankets, 3-pack (from $24.99)

Muslin is light and breathable, which makes these blankets handy for so much more than wrapping: a nursing cover, a stroller shade, a burp cloth in a pinch or a soft spot for tummy time.

Wooden Monthly Milestone Discs (from $15.99)

A small gift that turns into a year of memories. Parents place a disc next to baby each month for a photo, and the set becomes a keepsake later.

Baby Bath Towel Set, 12 pieces (from $27.99)

Hooded towels and washcloths come out every single day. A bigger set means there is always a clean one ready, even when laundry is behind.

Silicone Baby Weaning Set, 15 pieces ($34.99)

A gift for a few months down the road: suction plate, bowl, bib, sippy cup, fruit feeder and more for when baby starts solids. Parents are always glad to find it already in the cupboard.

Soft Cloth Books, 6-pack (from $14.99)

Crinkly, bright and soft. Cloth books are a sweet add-on to any gift and a nice way to start a little library.

A few tips for choosing

• Size up. Most babies outgrow newborn sizes within weeks. Clothes in 3-6 or 6-9 months get more wear.
• Think everyday, not just cute. Swaddles, towels and bodysuits get used daily.
• Add something for later. A feeding set or toys for 6 months and up is a gift that arrives right when it is needed.

Browse more ideas in our gift collection. Every order ships free within the US.