Ask a new parent what they need this holiday season and you'll probably get a tired laugh. Sleep, mostly. Maybe a hot cup of coffee they actually finish.
We can't help with the sleep. But from talking with the parents who shop with us, we've noticed which gifts get used every single day and which ones end up in the back of a closet. The winners have three things in common: they're soft, they're practical, and they don't need instructions.
Muslin, and lots of it
Ask any parent who's been through the first few months and they'll tell you: you can't have too much muslin. It's a burp cloth, a nursing cover, a stroller shade and a changing pad on the go.
Our organic cotton muslin blankets come in five soft colors and get softer with every wash. For something a little more special, the butterfly motif muslin shawl is pretty enough to double as a wrap for mom.
A blanket for the stroller and the couch
Winter means bundling up for every walk and every errand. A knit blanket is the thing parents grab on the way out the door, and it lives on the couch for tummy time and cuddles once they're home.
Look for something machine washable, because it will be washed often. Our organic cotton knit blankets go right in the washer on gentle and come out just as soft. The Buddy Dog blanket is a fun one for families with a four-legged sibling at home.
Something for baby to hold
Around three or four months, babies start reaching for everything. A soft toy with a gentle rattle is a hit at that stage, and it's light enough to toss in the diaper bag. Our handmade organic cotton stuffed animals include plenty of rattle options, from the Striped Bunny to a broccoli rattle that always gets a laugh.
The one-box answer
If you'd rather not piece it together, a bundle does the work for you. Our blanket and stuffed animal bundles pair a blanket with a matching friend, and sets like the Dino blanket and lovey gift set arrive ready to give.
For the holidays, our new holiday gift sets are open for preorder. They ship gift wrapped with a handwritten card, which is one less thing on your December to-do list.
What to skip
- Newborn-size clothes. Babies outgrow them in weeks, and most parents already have a drawer full.
- Anything with a lot of parts. Nobody wants to assemble something at midnight.
- Loud toys. Trust us on this one.
Don't forget the parents' coworkers
If you're the one organizing a holiday gift from the office, our corporate baby gift baskets make it easy, with custom embroidery available. One order, one beautiful basket, and everyone on the card gets the credit.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good holiday gift for new parents?
Practical things that feel a little luxurious: muslin blankets, a soft knit blanket for the stroller, or a toy baby can hold. A ready-made gift set covers several at once.
Are organic cotton baby gifts worth it?
Many parents prefer organic cotton because it's soft, breathable and gentle on new skin. It also holds up well to the constant washing that comes with a baby.
Can you ship a gift directly to new parents?
Yes. Shipping is always free, and you can add gift wrapping with a handwritten card so it arrives ready to open.