55 Best Baby Gifts for Newborns, According to Real Parents

For a personalized gift with a bit more staying power, this framed handprint and footprint keepsake (with room for newborn photos!) has more than 11,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. It’s a relatively inexpensive gift they’ll keep for a lifetime. “We have a similar tree ornament for each baby, but I love the idea of a frame you can keep out year-round,” says Earley.

Ideal age: Newborn to 6 months

Like the viral constellation projector, but make it for baby. So much more than an adorable piece of animal-themed nursery decor, this night-light projects a soothing depiction of the night sky on walls and ceiling in your choice of three soft colors. “I like that it has a 45-minute shut-off,” says Earley. “This way you don’t have to remember to turn it off later.”

Ideal age: Newborn and up

If there ever was a baby product with a cultlike following, it would be Lovevery’s Play Gym. Thanks to Montessori-approved accessories such as a batting ring, a teether, a mirror, and all kinds of learning cards, this activity gym will set their kid up for tummy time now, play time later (it turns into a fort for older kids!). “Sure, all of the interactive elements are great, but selfishly, I love that this baby toy isn’t made of vibrantly colored plastic like so many others like it. It actually looks kind of cute in my small family room,” says Earley.

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

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File this under one of those adult-style items that looks a hundred times cuter on a baby. “A family member bought these for my son when he was a baby, and I think everyone we walked by audibly squealed,” says Earley. “I loved them so much, I got some in my own size.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 4 years

Once the name has been revealed, this is the perfect customized gift to celebrate the new nugget. It’s more than just a keepsake—parents can eventually incorporate this personalized puzzle into playtime to improve hand-eye coordination as their baby grows. “This is my go-to gift for one-year-olds,” says Earley. “New parents love anything with their baby’s name on it, so it’s never too soon.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 3 years

A lot of new parents put burp cloths on their registries, but Earley says there’s a better alternative. “My son’s reflux was out of control. He was constantly spitting up, and a bib or a burp cloth just wasn’t big enough. These swaddle blankets saved me (and my clothes), and you can’t beat the versatility. Use them as stroller blankets, roll them up and use them to prop baby’s head up, use them as a nursing cover—you name it. Oh, and the muslin is unbeatably soft.” They’re machine-washable too.

Ideal age: Newborn to 6 months

Do you know how much your mouth starts to hurt after saying “shhh” over and over again? Real moms say this little device is a game changer. It perfectly emulates the sound to do the hard work for you in 30- to 60-minute increments. “Although we use a sound machine at night, I still consider this gadget a must-have,” says new mom Jillian Shatken, creative director of womenswear at clothing designer Saylor. “It perfectly emulates a verbal ‘shhh’ and is ideal for calming down an overtired baby at nap time. It is truly a miracle machine.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 6 months

Want to gift a trusted product? New parents say they couldn’t live without their BabyBjörn bouncer. This comfy quilted chair will be a safe place for their newborn baby to chill (and soothe themselves), giving mom and dad a free hand to drink their first glass of water in days. “I brought mine everywhere, including the beach and the nail salon (seriously),” says Earley.

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

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This organic cotton crossover top, from one of the best baby clothes brands, is perfect for newborns and their nervous new parents—the snap top is easier to take on and off than the standard envelope-shoulder onesie, and it’s gentle on newborns with their umbilical cords still attached. It has a few tricks up its sleeves too: “I had a baby in November, and I was always worried about keeping her hands and feet warm—clothes with sleeves that can fold over a baby’s little hands are great for that and for preventing them from scratching themselves,” says Gena Kaufman, a mom of a one-year-old and a three-year-old. For an extra-sweet touch, you can have the little one’s name embroidered on this.

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

A baby in sunglasses is 100% guaranteed to elicit fawning gasps from strangers on a walk. “I never got stopped by more people than when I had my three-month-old daughter in trendy sunglasses,” says Kaufman. “They look so funny and adorable.” The stretchy backstrap here helps actually keep them on the baby’s head instead of getting tossed on the sidewalk.

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

Any seasoned parent knows snaps are a no-no, especially during midnight diaper changes. This sleeper, which secures via magnets, is much more efficient. “They are the easiest outfit to get on and off,” says Kelsey Ogletree, new mom and CEO of online PR facilitator Pitchcraft. “And the soft fabric is so stretchy. Somehow my four-month-old is still wearing one that’s a newborn size!”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

It’s no surprise this little toy has more than 38,000 glowing reviews on Amazon. It’s a relatively budget-friendly baby gift that’s highly interactive. “One of my coworkers gave us this when my son was born, and it went on to entertain all four kids,” says Earley. “Now it’s something I love to buy for other families.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 12 months

You know what’s a hit with new parents? Anything that makes their little one look even cuter than they already are—like this hand-embroidered bow. Prepare to be inundated with photos of their little cutie donning this gift. “I love that you can choose a headband or a clip, but recommend the headband for the youngest set, since a lot of babies won’t have enough hair for a clip,” says Earley.

Ideal age: Newborn and up

Moms say there are no better stuffed animals than the ones Jellycat makes. “We’ve gotten so many stuffed animals throughout the years—too many, really!” says Earley. “Jellycat really is the softest and cutest option around.” And this rattle is the perfect choice for the littlest set.

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

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This baby gift set of Montessori-inspired toys is basically a greatest-hits list for babies six months and older, and a lot of them are toys the child will play with well into their toddler years. “Stacking cups and a faux tissue box were favorites of both my daughters and kept them entertained for good stretches even in their baby days,” Kaufman says.

Ideal age: 6 months to 3 years

Baby may not be actually sitting in this for a while, but it’s a can’t-resist piece of nursing or family room decor. And we all know how much a new parent gushes over anything personalized. “I bought one of these for each of my kids. In fact, I remember buying my second’s before I even left the hospital,” says Earley.

Ideal age: 1 to 3 years

Reading, speaking, and singing to a baby is not only good for their development, but it may become a key part of the little family’s bedtime routine. This board book is a fun alternative to Corduroy for the millionth time, because it puts their hero (dad) in the spotlight. “My kids don’t have the best attention span when it comes to books, but the personalized ones we have do the trick,” says Earley. “My kids think it’s some kind of magic. I think they honestly think their dad is famous—it’s hysterical,” says Earley.

Ideal age: Newborn to 2 years

Sentimental parents will be glad to have a baby book where they can document all of their little ones firsts and special details as they watch them grow. “My chicest mom friends are all obsessed with Artifact Uprising for photo books and other customizable gifts because of their classic and elegant style and the easy of ordering online,” says Kaufman.

Ideal age: Newborn

Between feedings and the drool that comes along with teething, a set of bibs will help prevent multiple outfit changes a day and parents will appreciate that when it comes to their heaping weekly laundry. Plus, babies look so cute in them! “These bibs are so soft and totally adorable,” says Earley. “They’re my go-to gifts for acquaintances, since the price is right and they still feel both thoughtful and useful.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

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Once baby pulls up a seat at the table (figuratively, of course), seasoned moms like Earley say, this silicone plate is key to keeping food where it should be—on the table or in baby’s mouth. That’s because it suctions to the surface, so even the most squirmy baby can’t send their entire pile of food flying across the room.

Ideal age: 6 months to 2 years

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Unless one of the parents is a labor and delivery nurse, using a traditional swaddle blanket can be intimidating and frustrating. Plus, babies can be surprisingly picky about what they do—and don’t—want to wear. Save them all hours of trial and error, and restless nights, with this gift box. It comes with four of the most popular swaddles on the market, giving them the gift of experimentation. “I’ve tried each and every one of these swaddles, and they’re all great,” says Earley.

Ideal age: Newborn to 3 months

If you’re looking for another small yet thoughtful gift, check out this unique giraffe pacifier. “Everyone gravitates toward another popular brand, but I liked this one because the pacifier actually detaches from the lovie,” says Earley. “This way you can wash the plush and sterilize the paci, because you know it’s going to end up on the floor—yuck!”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

The Hatch sound machine isn’t on a million wish lists by mistake—it’s even the number one item on Babylist registries. This audio monitor, clock, and white noise machine is essential for creating the perfect environment for babies to drift off more easily. Parents love that it works with an easy-to-use app and also functions as a night-light for those midnight diaper changes now, and as a security blanket for the kid later. “Just be prepared to buy multiple,” says Earley. “My husband liked our son’s so much that he was constantly taking it out of the nursery. Now we have five—one for each kid and one for us.”

Ideal age: Any!

There’s just something about a crinkly toy that gets a baby every time. Parents we spoke to said this one is particularly engaging, because it boasts multiple ways to play. In addition to the crinkly paper, there’s also a teething ring, textured tabs, and a plush mushroom to snuggle with. For parents, it’s pretty easy on the eyes. “I was always looking for aesthetically pleasing toys once my entire living room was taken over by baby things,” says Kaufman.

Ideal age: Newborn and up

Babywearing via wrap is one of the most rewarding experiences if the new mom or dad has enough patience to get the technique down (hi, hands-free afternoons). It mimics the womb, so this would make an especially good gift for smaller newborns or preemies who love being held close and tight. Solly Baby’s wraps are on the more expensive side from our list of best baby carriers, but moms say the material has the perfect amount of stretch and breathability—and comes in sophisticated colors and patterns. “I especially liked my Solly for errands,” says Earley. “It kept my son quiet and content, and as a bonus, it kept his face tucked away from those well-meaning strangers without boundaries.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

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Even parents of breastfeeding babies will need to tote bottles around at some point—when baby starts daycare, for an afternoon with the grandparents, carrying pumped milk home from the office, etc.—and if they’ll be out for a while, they’ll need to keep the milk or formula cold. “We used the same little insulated bag with both my daughters through their first year and beyond, swapping out the bottles for yogurt pouches and water once they outgrew bottles,” says Kaufman. “We basically never leave the house for more than a coffee run without it.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

The first year of a baby’s life comes with such rapid growth, and new parents love keeping track of their little one’s milestones. “I loved taking monthly photos, especially with my first-born—it was such a good reminder of how fast the time was moving, and to stop and appreciate the phase we were in at the moment,” Kaufman says. “It’s so nice to have a consistent way to set up the photos. And then at the end of the year, you have a whole set of monthly photos to look back on.”

Ideal age: Newborn

It’s really not an overgeneralization to say that parents love a multitasking product (you try lugging all of a tiny human’s necessities from nursery to car to grandma’s and back again). Copper Pearl’s cover can be used for nursing or with a stroller or a car seat—not to mention as a burp cloth or a blanket if parents are in a pinch. There are plenty of designs to choose from, including loads of gender-neutral prints like this happy dinosaur one. “I liked that it kept my babies in their own little cocoons while out in public,” says Earley. “I felt like it not only helped them sleep, but also kept them out of the direct line of germs.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

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Babies have trouble regulating their body temperature, so help keep them comfortable (and cute) in this literal pod of plush. This luxury bunting is insulated for warmth and designed to attach to almost any stroller or car seat for toasty hands and feet on the go. “I had a winter baby in Chicago, so needless to say, this was an absolute necessity,” says Kim Hurley, a mom of two. “It was one of those things that people always stopped me and said they wished they came in adult sizes!”

Ideal age: Newborn to 2 years

Meet the cool-mom-certified carrier worn by everyone from Hillary Duff to Henry Golding to Shay Mitchell. Artipoppe makes beautiful carriers that are equal parts comfortable and chic—and guaranteed to be on the baby shower wish list. With 100% cotton, cashmere, and even silk options available, their little one will literally be seated in the lap of luxury. The best part? Despite looking like art, these are ridiculously durable and will last through a second baby (wink). “I had multiple carriers with my first and didn’t like any of them,” says Nikki Fink, a mom of two. “I splurged and got the Artipoppe this time, and I’m obsessed. It’s so comfortable.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 2 years (suitable for kids up to 45 pounds)

The Nuna Revv is a complete and total revolution in the world of car seats. If you’re familiar with the brand’s popular Rava model, the Revv takes all the great things from the original and turns it (pun intended) into a car seat that rotates 360 degrees on its base. No more screaming tot because a leg got caught on a seatbelt; no more pulled triceps from trying to set baby down as gently as possible while standing on one leg—the Revv is pure luxury for both parties. It starts as an infant car seat and will grow with the child (up to 40 pounds). Mic-drop baby shower gift? Found. “I honestly can’t believe I lived as long as I did without this seat,” says Earley.

Ideal age: Newborn to 2 years (suitable for kids up to 40 pounds)

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Seasoned moms know that having a changing pad is a must when you’re out and about. This stylish one from Dagne Dover will help you convert any tote bag or backpack into a diaper bag. “Most changing pads come in kitschy patterns like chevron,” says Earley. “This one is way more my style.” It even has a stroller strap and easy-to-clean surfaces.

Ideal age: Newborn to 2 years

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If the family logs a lot of miles, this unique “suitcase” will come in handy during the toddler years. The rolling luggage houses a bed to turn an economy seat into a makeshift bed, but even better, it’s specially designed so the tot can ride through the airport. “We get so many compliments on this,” says Hurley. “And I always tell people, it really does make the monumental task of traveling with toddlers easier.”

Ideal age: 1 to 3 years

Fridababy’s Baby Basics Kit includes everything first-time or veteran parents need to tackle the most common newborn woes, so there’s no wondering why it’s a top-registered item. Gas, snot, insanely sharp nails—considered them all unfussed with this useful gift set. “It’s basically a medicine cabinet in a box, which was super helpful when I was starting from scratch,” says Earley. “And it sounds gross, but trust me on this: The Windi is essential for gassy babies. Essential.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

This gift set comes with bath essentials like body wash and lotion, plus some products new parents might not think of, like a massage oil. “We did some work with an occupational therapist when our first daughter had some feeding issues in her newborn days, and I learned a simple, short baby massage can be great for gassy babies or just helping babies settle down at night,” Kaufman shares.

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

We’re not sure how in 2023 the packaging for baby wipes is still so inconvenient, but it is. It can be hard to pull out a wipe one-handed, and the entire package can dry up fairly quickly if not closed properly. “I didn’t think I needed one of these, but a slightly more experienced new mom sent me one when I had my first baby with a ‘trust me’ note, and she was right,” says Kaufman.

Ideal age: Newborn and beyond

Plot twist: Not all babies love bath time, so getting a warm, cozy, and absorbent hooded towel to cuddle them up in will help make things more comfortable. “These towels make the perfect photo opp too,” says Earley. “My mother-in-law gave us a similar one, and she’s pretty much guaranteed to get photos after every bath. I just can’t resist.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

There are few things more terrifying than taking a nail clip to your newborn baby’s teeny tiny wriggly fingers. “I recommend this to every single person I find out is having a baby,” says Kaufman. “I actually still make my husband do all the nail trims on our kids, but we’ve never once dealt with a nicked baby finger.”

Ideal age: Newborn and beyond

Something colorful and high contrast can help make tummy time more entertaining, and encourage babies to lift their heads, says Dr. LeVos. “My kids were totally captivated by cards like these,” says Earley. “They were perfect for tummy time, yes, but I also thought they were great sanity savers while we were out and about, whether in the waiting room at the doctor or taking an airplane ride to visit family.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

You’ve heard of toys that help encourage babies to crawl, right? But how about a beatboxing beet? TikTok tells us babies go crazy for this little toy, which moves all about the room playing one of three beatbox-style songs, eliciting the most adorable baby giggles you’ve ever heard.

Ideal age: 6 to 18 months

Spend any time looking at what parents recommend to one another on Reddit, and you’ll uncover this popular rattle and microphone combo by VTech. It shakes like a rattle but plays more than 60 tunes, sounds, and phrases to keep baby engaged. As they get older and begin their own babbling, it’ll even amplify their own voice. “I love that this toy has a lifespan way beyond its time as a basic rattle,” says Earley.

Ideal age: 3 months to 3 years

Looking for a toy that’s not made of flimsy plastic? “Seek out wooden toys,” says Earley. “They not only look more elevated, but they’re also much more durable.” This two-piece set is actually four toys in one: an eight-note xylophone, a hammering toy, a shape sorter, and a set of rolling balls. “They all nest inside one another, too, to create less visual clutter in the playroom.”

Ideal age: 12 months to 3 years

“This portable high chair felt like my ticket out of the house,” says Earley. “Friends houses without kids? No problem, because I had a totally suitable chair for baby in my purse.” Yep, this chair folds completely flat but clips onto most tables and is sturdy enough to hold kiddos up to 37 pounds (that’ll take you well into year two or three).

Ideal age: 6 months to 3 years

“This baby walker is miles ahead of the plastic ones most of us think of—and not just in aesthetics,” says Earley. “It’s a walker, of course, but also a busy board of sorts (peep the beads and dials) and a pretend play set.” Trust us: Parents won’t miss the flashing lights or the loud music and phrases. Babies won’t either.

Ideal age: 1 year and up

This shape sorter littered must-have holiday lists on TikTok this year, and it’s easy to see why. For starters, who could resist those pretty pastels? Beyond that, though, the toy is an educational one babies will enjoy manipulating to hone fine motor skills and toddlers can use to learn more about shapes and counting.

You’ve heard of a diaper cake, but how about a clothes bouquet? “It’s just as adorable but a little more surprising,” says Earley. “And, honestly, practical, everyday onesies are always appreciated.” Along with some silk flowers mom can put in a vase, she’ll find 100% cotton wardrobe must-haves for baby, including a hat, four pairs of socks, a onesie, two bibs, and mittens.

Ideal age: 0 to 6 months

“Some food just seems impossible to clean off the floor: mac and cheese, little bits of cereal, or—the worst—a bright purple berry smoothie,” says Earley. “But you can save your flooring or rug from stains with one of these mats under the high chair.” Sure, it’s a little extra, considering you could just as easily use a big towel, but that looks a little sloppy plus requires more room in the washing machine. These mats wipe clean like a dream.

Ideal age: 6 months and up

Chances are the sleep-deprived new parent already has a sound machine, but they may not realize the beloved Hatch now comes in a portable version too. “I always had a sound machine clipped to my kids’ stroller and car seats,” says Earley. “It totally saved me in crowded restaurants, busy playgrounds, and on long road trips.”

Ideal age: Newborn and up

Hanna Andersson may be best known for adorable matching Christmas jammies, but don’t overlook the brand’s zippered baby pajamas during the other seasons of the year, says mother of four Brigitt Earley. “They’re so soft, so adorable, and so durable,” she says. “Seriously—the pair my oldest son got when he was born made its way through all three of his younger siblings and still somehow looked almost brand-new!”

Ideal age: Any! These pajamas come in sizes for all ages from newborn to big kid to adult, which is why they’re one of the best matching outfits.

Unlike a lot of baby tents, this one isn’t just a glorified piece of playroom or nursery decor. It doubles as a true place for their little one to play, thanks to high-contrast graphics and hanging toys. Once they’re a little older, remove the hanging toys, and it turns into the perfect little hideout for toddlers.

Ideal age: Newborn and up

LoveShackFancy meets baby—does it get any more swoon-worthy than that? Your bestie is bound to flip for this on-trend baby blanket complete with scalloped edges. Baby will appreciate the warmth and security the supersoft cotton and acrylic blend lends. Don’t forget to personalize the pick with the little one’s name for a true keepsake.

Ideal age: Newborn and up

Parents we polled said having a baby made them nostalgic for the things they loved as kids, which is exactly what makes this Where the Wild Things Are–inspired hooded towel so special. Of course, like all the best baby gifts, this one can be monogrammed.

Ideal age: Newborn and up

Notice a theme here? When it comes to that tiny human, personalized is just better. Pair the neutral romper with a bow and a pair of knee socks, and you’ve got yourself one downright irresistible OOTD.

Ideal age: Newborn and up