8 Tips for Giving the Best Baby Gifts

POV: Someone you love just had a baby, and you want to get them a gift to celebrate. But you wonder, "Do they (and their baby) really need another generic blankie or stuffed creature?" Your instinct is right — they probably don't. If you're stumped for ideas, read on for 8 tips (from a Team Primary Dad!) for giving baby gifts that are not only super heartfelt and special, but useful and unexpected, too. 

1. Size up.

Most parents, especially ones who are welcoming their first baby, are usually stocked in newborn-size styles, thanks to it being a super common size to receive at baby showers. While there’s nothing wrong with gifting newborn pieces, consider clothing items in the 3-6 month or 6-12 month range. Babies grow FAST, and you’ll help their grown-ups avoid a drought of baby clothes after the newborn stage.

2. Consider older siblings.

A new baby is a huge change for the whole family, especially for older siblings! With the attention shift to a newborn, gifting matching styles to a big sibling can help them feel involved and supported during this time of transition. Stand-alone gifts for older siblings are also great, which can help nurture their sense of individual self. Go for a book, game, or even a new baby doll they can care for. 

3. Gift a service. 

If you have the budget, consider gifting a service for the family that frees up time when everyone’s adapting to life with a newborn. (Read: Sleep deprived!) A cleaning service, meal prep, or grocery delivery would be a huge help — you could also offer to come over and perform these yourself. Make sure to check in with the baby's caregivers beforehand to see what their comfort levels are in terms of having outside folks around a newborn. 

4. Don't forget the grown-ups!

Caring for a newborn is hard, no matter how much a person has been looking forward to it. Getting something for just the parents can go a long way in helping them feel seen and loved, and not lost in the spotlight that’s usually all on baby. Consider coffee, a self-care package, or cozy loungewear, and be mindful of anything with strong scents that could potentially irritate the baby. 

5. Go for a gift card. 

If you’re unsure what items to buy, a gift card will do the trick! It's not only quick and easy for you — it also allows to the caregivers to get what they feel they need the most. 

6. UPF 50, all year round. 

Styles with UPF 50 sun protection make great gifts for newborns in all climates, especially since UV rays don’t take the winter off! Try a rash guard or sunhat for baby to wear when they venture out and about.  

7. Get inspiration from your own experience. 

If you have kids of your own, think about the clothes, accessories, or random "life-saving" tools that helped you in those early days of raising a baby, especially if you're gifting to first-time parents who would appreciate a bit of insider info! If you want to be extra sustainable, consider wrapping up a bundle of your favorite hand-me-downs, along with a picture of your kids in those clothes.  

8. When in doubt, FOOD! 

The only thing better than eating a good meal is eating a good meal that you did not have to make yourself! If you’re visiting someone in the hospital, reach out beforehand so you can bring them whatever they might be craving, or once everyone is settled, stop by their home with a ready-made, comforting dish. 

Shop by size for kids and babies to put together the a thoughtful gift for the whole family, and check out our NEW gender-neutral baby gift sets!