An intimate baby shower gathering

Baby shower guide

The Top 10 Baby Shower Gifts People Actually Buy

A practical, thoughtfully edited guide to the baby shower essentials people choose most often—based on real-life purchases, not trends. Scan the list, tap “Read more” for the why, and explore what families actually use and love.

A quick note before you scroll

Registry lists can include big-ticket gear, but baby shower gifts tend to skew toward items that feel meaningful, are easy to choose, and get used constantly. That’s why blankets, swaddles, cuddly companions, and curated sets stay at the top.

Toddler on mom's lap with a soft blanket
A baby gift basket featuring cozy essentials

The Baby Shower Gifts People Search For—and Actually Buy

Tap any item to expand the details.

1 Everyday baby blanket The “you’ll use this constantly” gift

This is the classic baby shower win: soft, giftable, and useful from day one. Parents love having more than one so there’s always a clean backup.

  • Best for stroller rides tummy time and couch cuddles
  • Look for breathable cotton and an easy-care weave or knit
  • Bonus points if it feels special enough for photos
2 Swaddles and receiving blankets Lightweight staples parents want multiples of

Swaddles are the easiest “safe choice” gift. They’re useful, packable, and always appreciated.

  • Great for newborn stage and everyday errands
  • Breathability matters especially for warmer rooms
  • Neutral patterns make gifting effortless
3 Stuffed animal or lovey A sweet keepsake without guessing sizes

This is where the “aww” factor lives. A cuddly companion feels personal, photographs beautifully, and doesn’t depend on fit or season.

  • Perfect for when you want something memorable
  • Pairs naturally with a blanket or swaddle
  • Choose soft textures and baby-friendly construction
4 Baby clothing (0–12 months) Classic shower gifting, especially for coworkers

Clothing is popular because it’s fun to shop. The only catch: parents often receive more outfits than they can use.

  • If you buy clothes consider sizing up
  • Go for comfort-first fabrics and easy changes
  • Thoughtfully chosen newborn outfits are often picked by close family or friends looking for something special
5 Bath essentials Simple, practical, and always needed

Think hooded towels, washcloths, and gentle grooming items that feel thoughtful and useful from the start.

  • A brush and comb set is a sweet, practical shower gift
  • Great as an add-on to a larger present
  • Choose baby-friendly materials and a soft, comfortable design
6 Board books Affordable, meaningful, and easy to personalize

Books are a go-to shower add-on because they’re sentimental without being complicated. A short note inside makes it instantly special.

  • Perfect add-on when you want to keep spend in check
  • Great for group gifting bundles
  • Choose sturdy pages for real-life baby use
7 Curated gift set The “I want to get it right” choice

Gift sets remove decision stress. You get a cohesive present that looks intentional and feels generous.

  • Includes curated gift sets and ready-to-gift baskets
  • Best when you want a complete, polished present
  • Presentation matters here more than almost any category
8 Burp cloths and bibs Tiny items that get used nonstop

They’re not glamorous, but they’re real-life essentials. Guests often add these to make a gift feel more complete.

  • Practical add-on to any main gift
  • Parents usually want multiples
  • Choose soft, absorbent fabrics
9 Nursery comfort items Cozy touches that make the room feel ready

These are the cozy, atmosphere-driven gifts: items that make everyday moments feel calmer, softer, and more “settled in.”

  • Think a soft blanket for the nursery chair or a cuddly lovey for comfort time
  • Great for close family who want a special gift
  • Neutral colors are easiest for gifting
10 Keepsake gifts Memory-forward gifts that feel lasting

Keepsake items are about the feeling: something the family will hold onto long after the shower is over.

  • Often chosen by grandparents and close friends
  • Great for photos and milestone moments
  • Pairs beautifully with a blanket or cuddly companion