There is something to be said about becoming a grandparent. Now that our oldest son is expected to have twins next week, my mind won't stop racing with all the things they may need. Since it is the holiday season as well, it made me think of all of the gift ideas for new parents. I'm a practical gift-giver most of the time, except for when it comes to collector items. As a new parent, I can remember thinking I needed to get so many things, only to find out those things weren't really needed so much as wanted. Here is my list of items I can strongly recall using most often as a parent with our kids.
Gift Ideas for New Parents
Feeding
If breastfeeding:
- Nursing bras
- Nursing pads
- Nipple cream
- Burp cloths
- Breast pump (manual or electric)
- Milk storage bags/containers
If formula feeding:
- Formula
- Bottles (6–8)
- Nipples (newborn flow)
- Bottle brush
- Sterilizer or large pot
Diapering
- Newborn diapers (don’t overbuy — they grow fast)
- Wipes
- Diaper rash cream
- Changing pad
- Diaper pail (optional but helpful)
- Portable changing mat
Clothing
(They’ll spit up on everything — keep it simple.) I highly recommend that you check out your local thrift stores for quality lightly used clothes.
- 6–8 onesies
- 4–6 sleepers/footie pajamas
- 4 pants
- 4–6 pairs of socks
- Soft newborn hats
- Mittens (optional — many sleepers have foldover cuffs)
- Swaddle blankets or Velcro swaddles
Sleep
- Crib, bassinet, or pack ’n play
- Firm mattress
- Fitted sheets (2–3)
- Wearable blankets/sleep sacks
- White noise machine (optional but helpful)
Bathing & Grooming
- Baby bathtub
- Baby wash
- Baby shampoo
- Soft washcloths
- Hooded towels (1–2)
- Baby lotion
- Soft hairbrush
- Baby nail clippers
Health & Safety
- Digital thermometer
- Infant acetaminophen (ask pediatrician for dosage)
- Bulb syringe or nose suction tool
- Saline drops
- First aid kit
- Baby monitor (audio or video)
Gear
- Car seat (non-negotiable)
- Stroller
- Baby carrier or wrap (lifesaver for hands-free time)
- Diaper bag
- Playmat for tummy time
Miscellaneous
- Pacifiers (if using)
- Laundry detergent safe for baby's skin
- Storage baskets for organizing essentials
- Soft blankets (for cuddling—not crib use)
Optional, But Nice to Have
- Rocker or glider
- Baby swing or bouncer
- Nightlight
- Bottle warmer
- Extra crib sheets
- Extra set of changing pad covers
Outside the Box Gifts for Parents
- DoorDash Membership
- Membership to Sam's Club, BJs, or Costco.
- Precooked meals.
- Coupons for a bit of free babysitting.
Talk to us in the comments:
What other gift ideas for parents should we consider?
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