Baby showers can be a fun time for everyone: cake, party games, gender reveals, did we mention cake? But baby showers can also be stressful for the guest who has no idea what to gift the new parents.

Thankfully, a baby registry can help! Make sure to check if the future parents are registered so you can buy the best baby shower gift directly from their wish list. New baby gifts and the best baby shower gifts are those that new parents request from experience or recommendation.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, below are some of our picks for the best baby shower gifts and ideas for showering the parents-to-be.

Baby Shower Gift for Mom

Baby shower gift idea #1: swaddle blankets

Swaddling is meant to soothe a newborn infant by wrapping them in a thin blanket to resemble the feeling of being in the womb, where baby was nice and snug in the earliest stages of development. This tight feeling helps calm a crying baby and is helpful for getting baby to sleep.

Traditional swaddling blankets are made of cotton, muslin, or bamboo — natural, soft fibers that are breathable and help regulate baby’s temperature. Some are large, thin blankets where caregivers can create the little baby burrito themselves — not to fear, most swaddle blankets come with instructions! Additionally, these thin blankets can be used as nursing covers or to gently cover baby when out and about on sunny days.

Another kind of swaddle blanket acts more like a wearable blanket. This type of swaddle blanket is designed to help a baby feel calm, fall asleep faster, and stay asleep longer. It can be worn as a weighted baby swaddle or sleep sack, and helps ease the transition to life outside of the womb — something most new parents will understand and appreciate!

Baby shower gift idea #2: sleep sacks

There are so many benefits to using a sleep sack when it comes to your newborn baby, that most baby registries have at least a few listed. Sleep sacks help regulate a baby’s body temperature to create a comfortable nap or night’s sleep, so they’re never too hot or too cold. 

A sleep sack also eliminates the need for extra blankets in baby’s crib, co-sleeper, or bassinet. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), this helps keep a baby’s sleep-space safe, and greatly reduces the risk of suffocation and SIDS. This is why in the sleep sack vs. blanket debate, the sleep sack is the clear winner!

Baby shower gift idea #3: music

When it comes to establishing a bedtime routine, most parents swear by soothing, soft music to help lull their little one to sleep. That’s because music can have a calming effect on babies that will help reduce stress and help baby sleep more.

Some experts declare that music is the soundtrack to your baby’s development, and neuroscientists agree! Studies indicate that music has long-lasting benefits for babies, and helps in all areas of child development like intellect, motor and language skills, and overall literacy. It’s also believed that exposing children to music during early development helps them learn sounds and the meanings of words. Because music can be personal, creating a go-to playlist of baby tunes makes for a special and meaningful baby shower gift.

Baby shower gift idea #4: stroller organizer

Practical gifts make great baby shower gifts, too! A stroller organizer is exactly what it sounds like: an attachable sack, pouch, or bag that provides extra room for all the things parents need when out and about with baby. Most will connect directly to the stroller bar, creating more space for pacifiers, diapers, wipes, bottles, etc. Others might need stroller hooks to attach to the stroller. Everywhere from Amazon to Target to your nearest baby boutique should have a few good options to choose from.

Baby shower gift idea #5: books

Just like music, books are a personal and meaningful way to let the new parents know that it’s never too soon to get into the habit of reading. Books frequently become part of the nighttime routine and are a wonderful way for parents to connect and bond with baby from newborn through toddler age. Reading helps a baby’s brain development, concentration, and social skills, and introduces concepts likes numbers, letters, colors, and shapes. It also builds listening, memory, and vocabulary skills! All of these reasons make book bundles great baby shower gifts.

Baby shower gift idea #6: post-partum & self care

With so much focus on baby, it’s easy to forget that after delivery, mom may need some extra attention herself. That’s why self-care is essential after giving birth. With so many changes taking place — physically, mentally, and emotionally — chances are the new mom is feeling a bit overwhelmed. One of the best gifts you can offer is your time. Tell the new parents that you’re on your way over so they can sleep… or take a bath… or spend some time on their own while you watch the baby.

The challenges of new parenthood are real. Lead with love, patience, and kindness to be the best friend or relative you can!

Baby shower gift idea #7: Tushbaby Hip Carrier

Wearing your baby can be amazing for bonding, closeness, cuddling and more… but one thing many new parents fail to acknowledge is how exhausting carrying your baby can be, especially as your baby grows. That’s why — duh! — when it comes to the best baby shower gifts, our fave will forever be the Tushbaby hipseat baby carrier!

(Also read: Top Rated Baby Carriers for Moms)

With no straps, extra fabric, or buckles to worry about, Tushbaby allows baby to comfortably sit on a secure seat around the wearer’s waist. Baby can be safely held in four different positions: lying down (for feeding), side carry, facing in, or facing out. Tushbaby also puts baby’s hips in the “M” position — a natural position for baby which keeps their knees slightly higher than their tush while supporting their thighs, which is key when it comes to best practices for babywearing.

It also doubles as a fanny pack and diaper bag so you can stash your phone, diapers, wipes, keys, bottles, and toys, too. When it comes to the best baby shower gift ever, Tushbaby takes the cake.