Best baby shower gifts as recommended by real mums


by Catriona Watson |
Updated on

If you're trying to find the best baby shower gifts and the mum-to-be hasn't already written an extensive gift wish list, we have done all the research for you and compiled our favourite and unique baby shower gift ideas.

A well-chosen present can ease new-parent jitters, spark joy, and even become a staple in the household for years to come. Whether it’s a high-tech gadget that simplifies parenting tasks or a timeless blanket for cuddles, the right gift shows thoughtfulness and care. The right baby shower gifts can make all the difference, not just by being thoughtful but also by serving as tools to make the journey of parenthood smoother. From essentials like diapers and onesies to sentimental keepsakes, these gifts become part of cherished memories and daily routines.

We have suggestions for both boys and girls, as well as some great unisex options. Most importantly, we have included gifts for the expecting mother, as well as useful items for when the baby arrives. These present ideas cover every budget, are great for those with zero baby knowledge or even if you simply want some inspiration.

Editor's Choice

Best for practicality: Lekebaby Nappy Changing Bag Backpack, buy on here from Amazon

Best for something special: Wooden Keepsake Box, buy on here from Amazon

Best keepsake present: The New Mum's Notebook by Amy Ransom, buy on here from Amazon

Best sensory gift: Infantino Fold & Go Giant Discovery Mat, buy on here from Argos

Best for relaxation: Badedas Rich Bubble Bath 750ml, buy on here from Amazon

We asked our mum readers what they would have loved to receive at their own baby shower, and they delivered with some fantastic gift ideas. Take a look at some of our favourites from their picks down below.

Best baby shower gifts

Best organic baby shower gift

Organic newborn collection Amazon
Price: $112.48

Made with calming organic plant extracts and no artificial fragrance or harsh ingredients, this product is for expectant mums who are prone to perfume, as well as babies with ultra-sensitive skin or fragrance allergies. With ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, cocoa butter and calendula, all key plants actives, it will be the operfect gift. From the calming Baby Wash to the rich and protective Nappy Cream, every item is designed to support your baby’s natural skin barrier while leaving them feeling clean, soft, and cared for. Mother&Baby writer, Hannah James said: "This is a show-stopping gift. It looks amazing and is practical. It's packed full of great products all made in the UK. I love it."

Pros

  • Designed especially to meet the needs of babies with sensitive skin and who may be prone to eczema
  • Plant-based ingredients that help to protect the delicate skin barrier.
  • This set contains:
    50ml organic nappy cream
    50ml baby wash
    150ml baby lotion
    100ml rescue balm

Cons

  • Quite pricey.

Best night soothing baby shower gift

Writer's Choice
Dreammaker by Tommee Tippee - Baby shower giftDebenhams

What is better than the gift of a good night's sleep? The answer is absolutely nothing.
You will be the new parents' favourite person after gifting the Dreammaker from Tomee Tippee. It is a scientifically proven sound and light sleep aid that helps a baby to sleep. Developed by a world-leading sleep laboratory and sleep scientists at Northumbria University in the UK, this sleep aid relaxes your baby, encourages them into a deep sleep and prolongs the length of their sleep. Purchased by a new mum, they said: "Since my baby arrived we've had the pink noise and light on while he sleeps. Us parents enjoy the sound too. He finds it comforting, the device is nice and compact and can be plugged in on your side table. I recommend to anyone looking to get a white noise/ night light."

Pros

  • Helps baby sleep better
  • Scientifically proven

Cons

  • Needs to be plugged in

Best sensory baby shower gift

Best play mat

The Infantino Fold & Go Giant Discovery Mat is every parent’s dream for creating a fun, safe, and engaging play space! Whether you’re at home or on the go, this versatile mat offers endless entertainment for little explorers with its vibrant colors, textured surfaces, and interactive features. It’s big enough to encourage tummy time, rolling, and crawling, yet folds easily for quick storage or travel. Designed with both kids and parents in mind, it’s the ultimate blend of playtime magic and practical convenience! Mother&Baby writer, Hannah James said: "This mat kept my baby entertained for so long. It is designed to be beautiful. It is bright and colourful but can be packed away easily. It was a great eye-catching visual for my younger children to give the baby his space."

Pros

  • Interactive features
  • Adorable design

Cons

  • Not a thick mat

Best for memory baby shower gift

Best keepsake present
The New Mum's Notebook by Amy Ransom - Baby shower giftAmazon
Price: $30.38

The New Mum's Notebook by Amy Ransom is perfect for expectant mothers and new mums. Full of gorgeous colour pages including lots of reassurance, self-care advice, journal pages, affirmations and simple recipes. It is divided into 12 months to take you through every stage of being a new mum as well as baby’s first year. With eight journal pages per month and space to write notes, thoughts, memories and all those to-do list, this will keep parents busy. Happy with how supporting and engaging this book is, one buyer said: "I so wish I found this book earlier! But I'm glad I've come across it now and can still use it. It's so pretty, and eye-catching, but most of all, it has supportive information and quotes, which a lot of mums need. I definitely would recommend it and glad I didn't let the price of it prevent me from getting it."

Pros

  • Advice given throughout the book
  • Motivational quotes

Cons

  • Price printed on the back

Best waterproof baby shower gift

Best backpack
Lekebaby Nappy Changing Bag Backpack  - Baby shower giftAmazon

Say goodbye to diaper bag drama and hello to the Lekebaby Nappy Changing Bag Backpack—the ultimate parenting sidekick! This stylish and functional backpack is packed with features to keep you organized, from spacious compartments to dedicated bottle holders. Comfortable to wear and cleverly designed, it makes carrying all your baby essentials a breeze, whether you’re running errands or on a family adventure. With its sleek look and thoughtful details, this bag isn’t just a lifesaver—it’s a game-changer for all parents. One reviewer, happy with the size said: "Perfect changing bag, light but durable. bigger inside than expected. Able to carry everything baby needs, plus some!"

Pros

  • Durable
  • A good size

Cons

  • May not be to the taste of the mother

Best for relaxing baby shower gift

Best present for relaxing
Badedas Rich Bubble Bath 750mlAmazon
Price: $17.68
Alternative retailers
Waitrose$1.76View offer
Walmart$28.00View offer

Transform your bathroom into a luxurious spa retreat with Badedas Rich Bubble Bath 750ml! This iconic bath soak, infused with the invigorating scent of horse chestnut, eucalyptus, and pine, creates a rich, bubbly lather that feels as indulgent as it smells. Perfect for melting away stress and recharging your spirits, it’s a treat for your senses and skin alike. Whether you need a quick pick-me-up or a long soak after a busy day, Badedas turns every bath into a rejuvenating escape. A first time buying mum said: "Used for after having a baby as recommended by other new mums. Excellent healing help in the bath in the first weeks after giving birth."

Pros

  • Luxurious self care product
  • Practical

Cons

  • Plastic packaging

Best thoughtful baby shower gift

Best keepsake for mums expecting daughters
 Memories Keepsake Box Vintage StyleAmazon
Price: $27.71

A wooden keepsake box is more than just a storage solution—it's a timeless treasure chest for your most cherished memories. With its natural beauty and durability, a wooden box adds a touch of rustic elegance to any space while protecting your keepsakes for years to come.. With this adorable box, they can collect baby's special moments and memories from day on. Made from quality wood, this keepsake box is an ideal way to store those important first keepsakes. It's also available in blue. One reviewer, impressed with its sturdiness said: "I liked this it’s sturdy and all who have received we’re so pleased with it , have bought a few of these as baby gifts."

Pros

  • Perfect for mums expecting a little girl
  • Thoughtful design

Cons

  • Only one colour option

Best newborn baby shower gift

Best bath set
Original Sprout Baby's First Bath Kit - Baby shower giftOriginal Sprout

With so many baby washes and creams on the market, you may feel a bit cautious gifting yet another wash set. However, we cannot recommend highly enough Original Sprout. This simple set consists of a Hair & Body wash and cream but it smells absolutely incredible. A little goes a long way with this product. We are confident that it will become a favourite of any mum. Mother&Baby writer, Hannah James said: "This product is so gentle on my baby's skin but smells divine. I only use a small quantity but I can smell it all day long. It's so luxurious. I really recommend it."

Pros

  • Lovely smell
  • Suitable for vegans
  • Can be used by the whole family

Cons

  • Only two products in the set

Best for jotting baby shower gift

Best record book
Peter Rabbit Baby Record Book - Baby shower giftAmazon

Hop into the world of cherished memories with the Peter Rabbit Baby Record Book! This delightful keepsake combines the timeless charm of Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters with the perfect way to capture all your baby’s firsts. From their first smile to their first steps, every page invites you to document those magical moments in a beautifully illustrated and heartwarming format. It’s not just a record book, it’s a treasure trove of memories that you and your child will adore flipping through for years to come. One reviewer, who bought this for her granddaughter said : "This book is perfect, so easy to keep records and special bits and bobs. Bought for my grandaughter who is expecting her first baby. She loves the book."

Pros

  • Great design
  • Beautiful illustrations

Cons

  • Items need to be stuck into the book and cannot be easily removed

Best blanket for a baby shower gift

Best muslin set
Boutique Cotton Muslin Swaddles 4 PackAden and Anais

Put simply, you can never have too many muslins. Or, some days, enough! Aden + Anais muslins are just gorgeous - both in terms of the design and their softness. A beautiful gift that Mum will be happy to wipe up sick with. These are swaddle blanket size, so you can use them for a variety of uses. Our mum tester Isabelle said: "These swaddles are wonderful and make life with a newborn so much easier. They can be used for many different things such as a swaddle, a cloth for wiping up spills, a breastfeeding cover, a blanket or a mat to lay your baby on. The uses are fantastic. I can keep my baby warm, dry and mop up any spills all with one swaddle when on-the-go. Wonderful."

Pros

  • Excellent quality
  • Thick breathable material

Cons

  • Stain will show easily

Best self-care baby shower gift

Best baby shower skincare set
Childs Farm Baby Gifting Suitcase - Baby shower giftAmazon

From the multi-award-winning brand Childs Farm, this is the ultimate gift for new parents and their little ones, combining practicality with a touch of luxury! Packed with gentle, dermatologist-approved baby skincare essentials, it ensures your baby’s delicate skin is nurtured and protected. The adorable suitcase-style packaging adds an extra dose of charm, making it a perfect keepsake long after the products are used. Thoughtful, stylish, and oh-so-useful, this gift set is a surefire way to bring smiles to both parents and babies. Bought as gifts for a couple of their friends, one buyer said: "I buy this as a gift for all new arrivals. The Childs Farm products are very good (I use them myself at home) and this is the perfect little presentation/storage box."

Pros

  • Suitable for sensitive and delicate
  • Recyclable packaging
  • Suitable for vegans

Cons

  • Case is made from cardboard

Best outfit for a baby shower gift

Just Done 9 Months Inside Babygrow - Baby shower giftLazy Baby

Make mum laugh with the funny prison-inspired Just Done 9 Months Inside Babygrow. It's super soft and made from 100% organic cotton and is guaranteed to bring a smile to the mum-to-be's face during her baby shower. We love this one for adorable picture opportunities once their baby is born. A grandparent, who purchased this as a gift said: "A present for my Great grandson when he arrives. Very happy with it."

Pros

  • 100% organic cotton
  • Easy access design

Cons

  • Won't be suitable for every expectant mother

Best teething baby shower gift

Sophie la girafe Original Baby Teething ToyAmazon
Price: $28.99
Alternative retailers
Waitrose$15.99View offer
Walmart$28.00View offer

Sophie is somewhat of a sensation, yet this little rubber giraffe has actually been around for over 50 years! The classic teether relieves sore gums, acts as a squeaky toy and is super lightweight for little hands to hold. The new arrival won’t be the only one holding this must-have baby accessory, but it will be a well-loved present. Here's what our mum tester Jenny said: "I would recommend this to a fellow mum because Sophie La Girafe is a very baby-friendly and soft teething toy. Sophie is handcrafted, making each Sophie unique. Sophie is made of a soft rubber, making her very durable when the baby is chewing on her. She has lots of different angles and areas for the baby to chew on in the hope that each area will give some relief to a teething baby."

She's won various awards at the M&B Awards - read our full review here.

Pros

  • Easy for baby to grip
  • Made from natural rubber

Cons

  • Will slowly start to break eventually

Best bedtime story baby shower gift

The Very Hungry Caterpillar - Baby shower giftAmazon

Sure, reading a bedtime story is a long way off right now, but the The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a classic childhood book and always goes down a treat. Make sure you write a thoughtful message on the front cover for the new arrival to treasure forever. It's a thoughtful present for under £5. And what about suggesting every guest brings along their favourite children's book as a gift for the new baby? Used during a gathering, Mum Vicky Fernandes said: "When I had a get together before my first was born, my sister told everyone to bring a book which was lovely."

Pros

  • An absolute classic
  • Fun illustrations

Cons

  • They may have already purchased it as it is so popular

Best for melodies baby shower gift

Skip Hop Moonlight u0026amp; Melodies Nightlight Soother - Baby shower giftAmazon
Price: $44.99
Alternative retailers
Kohl's$45.00View offer
Macy's$45.00View offer
Albee Baby$45.00View offer

If you’re looking to spend a little more, this stylish feathered friend is perfect for every nursery. Not only does he look cute, but the Skip Hop Moonlight & Melodies Nightlight Soother also has a nightlight belly and soothes the most restless baby with eight different melodies and calming nature sounds. Trust us, every new parent will appreciate the gift of a good night’s sleep. Mum tester Alina Davies said: "I would absolutely recommend this product to every parent I know! It is really useful from newborn age to much older. For newborns the white noise is perfect (and really works). The stars give them something to look at and for their eyes to follow - my little boy loves looking at it. For older children, the stars look fabulous in their bedrooms and help them drift off to sleep watching them. There is also music for older ones with different time settings. And it looks good too!"

Pros

  • Auto-off timer
  • Multiple modes

Cons

  • Can be annoying for the parent

Best gift card for a baby shower gift

Let's be honest - sometimes you don't have the energy to cook when you're a parent (especially when getting into the swing of things with a newborn), and only a takeaway will hit the spot after a long day. Perfect for sleep-deprived new parents, this thoughtful baby shower gift lets them enjoy their favorite meals without the hassle of cooking or leaving the house. From comforting curries to indulgent desserts, Deliveroo delivers joy right to their door, giving them one less thing to worry about during those busy baby days. It’s practical, fun, and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family (because who doesn’t love takeout?).

Pros

  • Practical
  • A crowd pleaser

Cons

  • The benefits will depend on where they live

Best cake for a baby shower gift

Peter Rabbit Baby Boy Gift Welcome to The World 3 Tier Nappy Cake Amazon

Say hello to the cutest and most charming way to welcome a little bundle of joy— the Peter Rabbit Baby Boy 3 Tier Nappy Cake! This whimsical, beautifully designed gift is not only a showstopper at any baby shower, but it’s also packed with practical goodies like nappies, soft toys, and more, all wrapped up in a delightful tiered cake display. Inspired by the timeless charm of Peter Rabbit, it’s a fun, thoughtful, and oh-so-adorable gift that will have everyone oohing and aahing while providing the essentials new parents will truly appreciate. Hosting their baby shower in their work environment, one mum said: "I had a baby shower at work for both my babies and I have two lovely nappy cakes from each. The nappies came in use and all the baby essentials tucked in them. My work mates all chipped in and supplied the stuff that went into the baby bundle which was very thoughtful and spread the cost of it all,".

Pros

  • Unique design
  • 100% cotton

Cons

  • Smaller than it appears

Best bath robe baby shower gift

The White Company Hydrocotton Baby Robe - Baby shower giftThe White Company

Wrap your little one in pure cosy luxury with The White Company Hydrocotton Baby Robe! This super-soft robe is made from high-quality Hydrocotton, which is not only absorbent but also gentle on delicate baby skin. Whether it’s after a bath, a dip in the pool, or just lounging around, this robe keeps your baby snug and stylish. With its classic design and plush feel, it’s the perfect way to add a touch of elegance to your baby’s daily routine while keeping them warm and comfortable. It’s like a hug, only more adorable. One reviewer, impressed with the design said: "Quality and style is very good. I have bought a little baby robe previously as a gift for a new baby and it was much appreciated."

Pros

  • Plush cotton
  • Stays soft after washing

Cons

  • Limited sizes

Best entertaining baby shower gift

Ingenuity Cradling Bounceru2122 - Morrison - Baby shower giftAmazon

Rrp: $49.99

Price: $44.99
Alternative retailers
Target$44.99View offer
Walmart$46.98View offer
Kohl's$49.99View offer
Macy's$49.99View offer

The Ingenuity Cradling Bouncer™ is the perfect prezzie. For more inspiration, check out our guide to the best baby bouncers and rockers. Give your little one the ultimate comfort and relaxation with the Ingenuity Soothing Baby Bouncer Chair. This cozy, tech-savvy bouncer is packed with features to keep your baby calm and content, from gentle vibrations to soothing sounds. Its plush design cradles your baby in softness, while the easy-to-clean fabric makes it a parent's dream. Whether it’s nap time, playtime, or just a few moments of peace for you, this bouncer is the perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment for your tiny tot. It’s a total game-changer for both babies and parents.
Excited about their purchased, one parent said: "This product is just gorgeous, easy to assemble and definitely would recommend."

Pros

  • Eight melodies with volume control
  • Adjustable 3-point harness
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Some reviewers didn't like where the toy bar was placed

Best for hygiene baby shower gift

Botttle warmer Amazon

New mums know how invaluable bottle warmers are. Whether you're on the go or having a sleepless night with a crying bubba, this bottle warmer will get your milk to the optimal temperature in no time and comes with a handy timer to alert you when the milk is ready. The sterilising feature will also remove 99.9 per cent of bacteria, keeping your baby safe and hygienic. Bought for their newborn, one buyer said: "One of the most useful buys for my newborn. Made the feeding just that little bit easier"

Pros

  • Smart memory function
  • Safe auto-off
  • Fast working

Cons

  • None

Best for pampering baby shower gift

Get ready to pamper the mom-to-be with the ultimate gift of relaxation—The Sanctuary Spa Baby Shower Gift Set. This indulgent set is packed with luxurious goodies designed to help unwind and de-stress. From rich, moisturizing body lotions to soothing bath oils, each item is carefully crafted to nourish the skin and provide a little slice of heaven for the mom-to-be. Whether she’s soaking in a bath or giving herself a quick pick-me-up, this gift set has everything she needs to feel rejuvenated and special—because every expecting parent deserves a bit of pampering. The heart-shaped gift includes a body moisturiser, stretch mark oil, hand cream, shower gel and a face mask, products which are especially suited to all pregnancy pampering needs. Happy with the price, one buyer said: "Lovely pamper gift for a mum-to-be...good value for money & quality products. Very pleased with my purchase."

Pros

  • Vegan and cruelty-free
  • Recyclable packaging

Cons

  • A smaller gift set

Best snug baby shower gift

CityComfort Dressing Gown - Baby shower giftAmazon

The silky soft City Comfort Dressing Gown will make any expecting mum feel cosy and special when waking up in the morning or lounging around the house during maternity leave. And trust us, every new parent needs a high-quality dressing gown to throw on quickly in those first new months with their baby. In awe with its snug feel, one buyer said: "This dressing gown is so lovely and soft and keeps you lovely and warm great value for money."

Pros

  • Machine washable
  • Multiple colour options

Cons

  • Size range could be better

When do you have a baby shower?

There's no right or wrong time to throw a baby shower. Most baby showers are held a month or two prior to the baby's arrival. By this time, mama is far enough along in the pregnancy to share it with all her friends and loved ones. Some mums will know the gender and will be looking to curate a few new baby essentials, which a baby shower can help with.

Who is supposed to host a baby shower?

Again, there's no rule here - anyone from a best friend, sister, mother-in-law or cousin can host a baby shower. As long as they're close to the mama-to-be and know how to throw a good shindig, then you're sorted. So what are you waiting for? It's time to throw a baby shower and add these creative gifts to your online shopping basket...

Are baby shower gifts for mum or baby?

They are good for both, but ideally, baby shower gifts are usually for the baby. These are pressies that will be used in the first three months of birth, and will help relieve the expenses of the huge number of items needed for a new tot.

What should you spend for a baby shower gift?

Depending on whether you're shopping for a colleague, a close pal, or a family member, or maybe just a neighbour, how much you spend is completely up to you.

What should a baby shower include?

It's not just a good gift that can really make a fab baby shower, it's also the experience. Coming together to celebrate new life coming into the world. You may want to play some fun baby shower themed games to keep everyone entertained. It may be more intimate than that and you may just want to chat and have some food.

Whether you go big with games and baby shower favours, or keep it simple, a baby shower should suit the parents-to-be and feel special to their experience. As long as it's positive and has some good photo opportunities, you're good to go.

Catriona Watson is a Digital Writer for Bauer Media. She has written and updated hundreds of articles on the site from medical explainers to celebs news and shopping galleries.

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