When I was pregnant with my first child I was overwhelmed with the thought of purchasing baby items. What items did I really need and which ones weren’t all that necessary?
I was lucky to be the recipient of a lovely baby shower where I received many wonderful gifts from family and friends. Although I am grateful to everyone for all the things I received, some things, I have learned I just couldn’t live without while others weren’t as necessary as I thought they would be. In those first few months, having these items became a great help and saved me precious dollars, time and sanity.
Diapers
You may see diapers and think, “Really… diapers?” However, what most people forget is that, although it may seem like a boring and uneventful gift to give, the parents will greatly appreciate it. Diapers are an essential item no baby or parent can live without. The cost of diapering supplies is expensive and in those first few weeks and months diaper changes will be frequent. The parents will appreciate the cost savings and the sanity it brings to have diapers easily on hand during those long sleepless nights. I know I did! If you are looking to make your gift of diapers more exciting, consider purchasing a diaper cake. The diaper cake not only serves as a practical gift with diapers and other essential baby items but can also serve as a beautiful and unique centerpiece.
Onesies
At a baby shower, the parents-to-be will very likely receive an abundance of baby clothing. Although the cute little outfits are fun to give and receive, simple clothing options like onesies are a great choice in those first few weeks. The reality is that, although those cute clothing items are fun and make for great photo opportunities, onesies in various sizes are much more practical and are an essential all parents must have. Remember that newborns grow quickly in those first few weeks. Be sure to buy a size larger than you may normally buy so that the baby can grow into it. I found onesies to be a valuable asset to my supply of baby items. In those first few weeks, it was as an easy clothing option with very little hassle.
Baby Sleep Sack
When decorating the nursery, new parents will most likely purchase a cute baby bedding set, if they do not receive one as a gift. However, in those first few months, it is recommended that babies do not sleep with anything except a fitted crib sheet. That includes not using a blanket or crib bumpers. In the beginning, you may be able to get away with swaddling the baby. They will be comfortable and you won’t have to worry about them moving around or the potential hazards that come with baby blankets. However, once they begin moving around more, swaddling will most likely not be an option. That’s where the baby sleep sack comes in. This cozy bedtime option is great for both baby and parents. The baby will be kept warm and comfortable even without a blanket and the parents won’t have to worry about the hazards baby blankets can bring while knowing that their baby is comfortable. My children slept great while using the sleep sack, which was a life saver from those many sleepless nights.
Bibs and Burp Cloths
Before I had children I did not realize how much of an asset having a large collection of bibs and burp cloths could be. Once I had my own children it became clear that the more we had the better. In those early months, babies tend to spit up a lot. Having a large selection of bibs and burp cloths will help keep your baby clean and fresh as well as save the parents from dealing with the stained clothing that comes from the frequent spit ups. Bibs with cute sayings or phrases make a cute addition to any gift set.
Baby Bouncer Seat
Normally, I don’t subscribe to the idea that parents need a bunch of fancy gadgets and baby gear. However, I will admit that the baby bouncer seat I received as a gift when I was pregnant with my first child was a life saver. Many models come with gentle vibrating action, which my children couldn’t live without. When we first brought our children from the hospital it became our go to piece of baby gear. Both our children had reflux as infants and the seat was a great way to give them the incline they needed while they napped. As they started to grow and play with toys, it was a great way to keep them occupied while we caught up on the much needed housework.
When choosing gifts for parents-to-be it’s best to give items that they will get great use out of. Although they may be practical, they don’t have to be boring. Purchasing a diaper cake can be a great way to include diapers and several other baby essentials, including bibs and onesies, which all parents will need. Gift sets or Baby Bouquets are also a great way to give practical essentials while adding some flare to the gift.
