Baby Gifts

I've just recently found out that two of my friends are pregnant! Crazy. And since I spend all my days with babies and used to work in baby stores, I've been trying to think of the best baby items that I love, that would make great gifts. Here goes:

1) Basic Onesies like this one from Petite Bateau found on milkshop.com

I love an amazingly adorable outfit as much as the next person, but these little undershirts are awesome and incredibly practical. You wont have to worry about scratchy zippers or cold snaps irritating baby's skin. If you have a little drool monster, it helps in keeping the "moisture" off the skin. And if you are putting them in two piece outfits, if their shirt rides up their little stomachs are still covered. You can get a 2 pack for $24.00 of the Petit Bateau (seems expensive, but they are super soft, wash really well, and will totally last through several kids).

2) Any outfits in sizes 9 month and up, because Moms get flooded with outfits for their newborn to 6 month.

3) Baby monitor with night vision; a slightly more pricey option, and maybe something you could go in on with someone. I'm not one to jump too fast on super tech stuff for babies, but this can really bring a piece of mind. Instead of trying to crack open the door to get a glimpse of your little one, just look on this monitor and you can see if he's flipped over, slumbering, or playing in his crib. I've not done any comparison shopping on these, but I think they'll range between $100-$200.


This one is off Bed Bath and Beyond for about $100.00


4) Books. I don't think a family can have too many books for kids. I also think its never too early to start reading to a child. So books of any and every kind! Help your new mommy start a library.

5) The Bumbo Seat. This is a great way to help your little one practice sitting up, without having to hold him, so you can sit face to face and interact with him. Note babies should not be left unattended in these because they can arch back and pop out. But they are great for playing with your baby.

This one is from BabieRus and is priced at $40.00

6) A good baby preparedness kit, with things for first aid, and things you just need to take care of the baby. There are some cute pre-made kits that range in price and how much stuff is included, or you can make your own. Some things to think about:

-baby thermometer
-baby nail clippers
-nasal bulb
-diaper rash cream
-ice pack
-band aids
-triple antibiotic ointment
-teething rings

Check out this American Red Cross First Years Kit for a good first aid kit
and Ice-qube's preparedness kit for baby for a very thorough example

7) While this isn't a product, another great idea, if you live near your mom-to-be, is to organize friends to cook dinner the first couple weeks home from the hospital. The last thing a new mommy wants to think about is what to cook for dinner!