What to buy parents of a newborn baby

1. Clothing

Buying clothes for a newborn baby can be tricky, because there’s no telling what size they’ll be when they’re born. The best bet for any gifter is to run bigger rather than smaller.

Not only will it help out the new parents when the baby grows — and that happens fast — but most people will instinctively buy newborn-sized clothes that the baby will only be able to wear for a short time. This way, you’re setting the baby up for months rather than weeks.

Extra tip: Be mindful about clothing for the new mom, too. Postpartum clothing needs to be loose and stretchy to accommodate healing bodies, so it’s always nice to gift her a gift card for a maternity store so that she can heal in style. Isabella Oliver and Macy's are two great options for maternity clothing.

2. Feeding

Even if Mama is planning on breastfeeding, bottles and other feeding supplies will still be necessities. A starter pack of bottles, milk storage bags and a bottle warmer is a good start, or even products for when the baby moves onto solid foods. This can include anything from heat-sensitive spoons and suction plates to no-spill cups and freezer trays to store purée in.

Extra tip: Consider banding together with other gifters to purchase a high chair as a communal present, provided the parents need one. Aim for easy-to-use over bells and whistles — practical is always best.

3. Changing

It’s every new parent’s worst nightmare: running out of diapers, onesies or wipes after a — shall we say — incident. Newborns are known for eating, sleeping and pooping, so a practical and well-received gift will always be changing supplies.

Extra tip: Consider gifting a few smaller packs of different diaper brands and styles, since it’s hard to tell which diaper will work best for baby without a little trial and error.

4. Linens

Buying linen is always a safe bet for a newborn, and there are plenty of stores that stock some really beautiful products for lower prices. The main things you’ll want to consider are fitted sheets for a crib or bassinet, soft baby towels and cozy swaddlers.

Extra tip: If you’re feeling generous, buy two of your chosen gift so that whenever one is in the wash, there’s always a sheet or towel available.

5. Gift cards

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with giving a gift card as a baby shower gift or as a little something extra for the new parents. In fact, this is a surefire way to make sure parents and baby get something they truly need.

The possibilities are virtually endless when it comes to choosing a store to get the gift card from. You could go with something baby-specific like Carter's or something that has a mix of everything, like Target.

Extra tip: Remember subscription boxes! There are so many options out there, and getting a small gift over the course of several months can be both fun and helpful for Mom and Dad.

6. Skincare

Newborn babies have incredibly sensitive skin, and new moms may have some skin woes of their own. So when it comes to a gift that will soothe Mom and baby alike, opt for skincare.

For moms, think nipple creams, bio oil for stretch marks and hand moisturizers. For baby, an all-over moisturizer or bath product is best, but be sure to pick a product that is gentle for sensitive baby skin.

Extra tip: If you’re buying a specific product, consider purchasing it in a pack or in bulk so they stay well-supplied.

7. Miscellaneous

Sometimes the best gifts fall into an unspecific category, so there’s plenty to consider outside the box.

From cleanable floor mats and changing mats to breastfeeding pillows and swaddles, there’s a world of ideas that will make life much easier for parents of a newborn.

Extra tip: Parenting books aren’t just to scare new parents before the baby’s birth — they can be great reference tools as well.