The Best Baby Shower Gifts That Are Worth the Splurge

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When shopping for a baby shower gift, our best recommendation is to look and see if the parents-to-be have a registry and choose something they have specifically included on the list. Perhaps they want their nursery decked out in a specific color palette, or they might already have some of the essentials like a car seat and crib, and are really looking for help with diapers, wipes, and bath supplies. Regardless, it will give you a sense of the types of gifts that would be most helpful to a new family.

But if there is no registry, or you've stumbled upon this list as a mom-to-be planning out what to add, let us make a few recommendations. Read on for gift ideas ranging from the practical (onesies, baby carriers, and burp cloths) to the delightfully over the top (designer shoes, silver hairbrushes, and all kids of cashmere).

The Play Gym

A playmat or play gym is a fantastic addition to any nursery, so why not choose the most aesthetically pleasing one on the market. Lovevery's is a favorite for parents because it not only looks nice, but it also grows with the child throughout their first year, and can be used in multiple ways to foster development.

Zeitgeist Argus Oat in linen

Made of linen and organic cotton, and super easy to put on, Artipoppe's signature carrier makes a chic gift for the design-loving mom in your life. It is pricey, but keep in mind that it can be used for newborns as well as kids all the way up two years old.

Elsa Peretti Heart Baby Brush

Searching for baby's first Elsa Peretti? We recommend a sweet heart-shaped brush from Tiffany (if a literal silver spoon is a bit too on the nose).

11-Piece Newborn Set

One of the most stressful things about the end of pregnancy is packing the hospital bag. Hanna Andersson's newborn kit, which includes multiple outfits and accessories, includes most everything a baby will need to wear in those precious first few days.

Welcome Penguin

It's not uncommon to see the same card opened multiple times during one baby shower. Keep your desk stocked with a few of these precious animal-themed cards to make sure your message stands out in the crowd.

Waiting Is Not Easy!

I love a gift with a sense of humor. Not only is this Elephant and Piggie story by Mo Willems a modern classic, but it's also a creative commentary on waiting for baby to arrive!

Baby Night Light

A perfect present doesn't have to break the bank. VAVA's egg-shaped night light is perfect for late-night feeds, looks smart on a bedside table, and it comes in at just under $25.

Baby's 7-Pack Weather Embroidery Bodysuit Set

Each bodysuit in Stella McCartney's set is embroidered with a weather-themed character, ensuring your favorite little one can always match the climate outside.

Baby Sound Machine

Parents swear by the Hatch sound machine, which also functions as a smart light that signals to older kids when it's time to stay in bed, and when it's okay to wake up parents.

The Baby Ellie Nap Dress

Few sartorial choices are better than mommy-and-me matching moment, especially when it features nap dresses in a rich navy shade.

Zippered Romper in Fog

Babies grow so quickly in the early months. Consider gifting the parents-to-be outfits in bigger sizes so they'll be well-stocked into the future. (Kyte onesies are a favorite because of their dual zippers that allow for easy diaper changes.)

Myrtle Wrap

The only thing better than Solly Baby's super soft cult-classic wrap? One that comes in an iconic floral Liberty print.

Hospital Packing Kit for Labor, Delivery, & Postpartum

Many moms-to-be forget to put postpartum supplies on their registries; Frida Mom conveniently includes all their cult favorite products in one kit that will be sure to set new mamas up for success in labor, delivery, and the weeks that follow.

Crawford Swivel Glider

An essential piece of furniture in any nursery is a glider. Not only is it typically a statement piece in the room, but it's also where caretakers will feed baby and lull them to sleep, and generally spend time bonding with them. This one from Namesake is a favorite for its water repellent and stain resistant fabric in a delicate print designed by Sarah Flint.

Play Kit

If you're looking for a gift that keeps on giving, turn your attention to Lovevry, a subscription box that sends a curated selection of toys and activities to its recipient every two months. For example, the 0-2 month kit (pictured here) includes high contrast toys and books designed for a newborn's developing vision.

VISTA V2 Stroller

Whether they'll be cruising the sidewalks of New York City or taking baby for a walk through a suburban neighborhood, a stroller is a must-have for any new parent. While there are plenty of models on the market at multiple different price points, the Uppababy Vista is a great overall pick because it includes a bassinet, can be converted to a two-child stroller to suit the needs of a growing family, and is great on rough terrain. Not to mention it's our sister brand Good Housekeeping's choice for best overall baby stroller.

Tenderness Infant’s Romper

As the weather starts to cool down, ensure that the kiddo in your life stays cozy and in style with a luxe cashmere romper.

Baby Arrival Gift Set

This collection of hypoallergenic products—which includes diapers, wipes, shampoo, body wash, and more—is a perfect sampling of the best Jessica Alba's Honest Company has to offer.

Indi Neoprene Diaper Backpack

A diaper bag that doesn't totally look like a diaper bag is must for modern moms. Dagne Dover's backpack style is made of easily wipeable neoprene, fits everything from a breast pump to a laptop, and includes a portable changing mat to keep your little one feeling fresh on the go.

Soft Sole Classic Moccs

Is there anything cuter than teeny tiny baby shoes? Maybe Freshly Picked's teeny tiny leather moccasins.

Flag Cotton Sweater

Start your favorite little one's love of Ralph early with an iconic flag sweater in just their size.

Duck Bib N' Burp Set

Gender neutral doesn't have to mean boring. If you don't know the baby's sex, may we recommend a duck-adorned bib and birth cloth set?

Bouncer Balance

Some kids products are classics for a reason and the BabyBjörn certainly stands the test of time. Parents love that it's a safe, cozy place where they can put their kids down for a moment, and quite simply, babies love to bounce.

Document Organizer

A new parent will rest easier if they know all their baby's key documents like their medical forms, social security card, and birth certificate are safe, secure, and organized in all in one place.

Bottle Box

Babies can be fickle about which type of bottle they prefer, so instead of investing in one brand over another, consider a box that includes multiple kinds, like this one from Babylist featuring five different models.

Plush Pacifier Toy

Pacifiers are like bottles—babies like what they like. But if you're a dog lover, it's ok to hope they favor a precious WubbaNub with a stuffed puppy attached. (Just don't let Rover use it as a chew toy!)

Toddler leather low-top

Your favorite baby will be the coolest kid in nursery school with a pair of designer Gucci kicks.

Moby Baby Bath Set

Skip Hop's entire bath set is adorable, but what really stands out is the whale-shaped kneeler to save your joints while washing baby's hair.

White Kissy Basics Footie

Already know the baby's name before his or her arrival? Add a personal touch to your gift by embroidering their monogram on a soft pima cotton onesie by Kissy Kissy.

Nantucket Hat

This baby hat featuring Nantucket landmarks is the ultimate If You Know, You Know gift, for the friend who summers on the Grey Lady.

Baby Changing Mat Sky Blue

For a truly indulgent gift, consider giving a designer changing mat, like this one from Dior is a soft blue shade.

Organic Cotton Muslin Swaddling Cloths

When Prince William and Kate swaddled Prince George in an aden + anais muslin cloth on his way home from the hospital, the royals further raised the profile of the baby brand, which since has become a favorite of celebrity moms.

Tot Drying Rack

One of the more practical gifts on our list, OXO's bottle drying rack is optimized to take up minimal counter space, making it a great choice for city dwellers with small apartments.

Cashmere Baby Blanket

Baby blankets are a popular shower gift. Ensure yours is the favorite of the bunch by choosing a luxuriously soft cashmere style, like one from Parachute Home.

The Tasteful Gift

Whether it's a gift card to their favorite local restaurant, or a package from Omaha Steaks that stocks their freezer with meals for moms and dads in those early weeks, a food-related present is always appreciated!

Bixbee Bootie

Winter is coming. Keep those teeny tiny toes toasty with a pair of Ugg booties.

The Sleep Miracle Sound Machine

Any sleep for a new parent is a gift. The portable soother helps to lull baby to dreamland—and to help moms and dad catch some Zs too.

Baby Hooded Towel

Up the cuteness factor of baby bath time with a hooded towel embroidered with the little one's name.

Animal Frame

I'm a strong believer that a picture frame makes for a great gift for any occasion. Adorned with a lion, an elephant, and a hippo (oh my!) this silver design from Michael Aram will be a keepsake they'll treasure for years.

Fuddlewuddle Lion Stuffed Animal

Every child needs a lovey or two and Jellycat makes the softest stuffed animals on the market.

Lou Babe Mary Jane

Yes, these baby Louboutins feature a red sole. You know you were wondering.

Bunny Felt Mobile

A handmade piece of nursery decor is the perfect sentimental gift. If you aren't a crafter yourself, Etsy is the perfect place to look for unique design details like a bunny mobile complete with clouds, stars, and moons.

5 Pack of 100% Organic Cotton Burp Cloths

This might not be the most exciting gift idea on our list, but truly, you can never have too many burp cloths, and a five pack made of 100% organic cotton would be a thoughtful present for parents-to-be.

Women's To-Hospital Box

Sure, it's called a baby shower, but really it's all about the mama. Hatch's super soft set of loungewear is a perfectly packaged gift that they will be thrilled to include in their hospital bag.

Peanut Changer Vanilla

Keekaroo is changing the diapering game (see what I did there?!) with the brand's wipeable pads that are soft, strong, and so easy to clean.

100% Organic Cotton Footie Pajamas

New parents sing the praises of magnetic onesies, especially when they're adorned with darling puppy dogs.

Daisy Baby Rattle

Whether the baby is born in the spring or the depths of winter a peach daisy rattle can brighten up any nursery.

Parenting Essentials

Storq's all-in-one set includes a soft organic cotton outfit to take home baby from the hospital, and a cute bunny toy to be the little one's best friend from day one.

Bitty Bundle of Joy

A kit feature grooming and healthcare must haves may not get the same oohs and ahhs as a stuffed animal when it's opened at the shower, but new parents will certainly appreciate having these supplies on hand at the first sign of illness!

Cashmere Baby Shawl

Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis all made their public debuts wrapped in G.H. Hurt & Son shawls, as did their cousin, Prince Archie. Start the tradition in your family with one of the British heritage brand's cashmere styles.

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