65 best baby gifts for newborns, according to real mums

Want to gift a trusted product? New parents say they couldn’t live without their BabyBjörn bouncer. This comfy quilted chair will be a safe place for their newborn baby to chill (and soothe themselves), giving mum and dad a free hand to drink their first glass of water in days. “I brought mine everywhere, including the beach and the nail salon (seriously),” says Earley.

Ideal age: Newborn to 2 year

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If there ever was a baby product with a cultlike following, it would be Lovevery’s Play Gym. Thanks to Montessori-approved accessories such as a batting ring, a teether, a mirror, and all kinds of learning cards, this activity gym will set their kid up for tummy time now, play time later (it turns into a fort for older kids!). “Sure, all of the interactive elements are great, but selfishly, I love that this baby toy isn’t made of vibrantly coloured plastic like so many others like it. It actually looks kind of cute in my small family room,” says Earley.

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

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Meet the cool-mum-certified carrier worn by everyone from Hillary Duff to Henry Golding to Shay Mitchell. Artipoppe makes beautiful carriers that are equal parts comfortable and chic—and guaranteed to be on the baby shower wish list. With 100% cotton, cashmere, and even silk options available, their little one will literally be seated in the lap of luxury. The best part? Despite looking like art, these are ridiculously durable and will last through a second baby (wink). “I had multiple carriers with my first and didn’t like any of them,” says Nikki Fink, a mom of two. “I splurged and got the Artipoppe this time, and I’m obsessed. It’s so comfortable.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 2 years (suitable for kids up to 45 pounds)

A lot of new parents put burp cloths on their registries, but Earley says there’s a better alternative. “My son’s reflux was out of control. He was constantly spitting up, and a bib or a burp cloth just wasn’t big enough. These swaddle blankets saved me (and my clothes), and you can’t beat the versatility. Use them as pram blankets, roll them up and use them to prop baby’s head up, use them as a nursing cover—you name it. Oh, and the muslin is unbeatably soft.” They’re machine-washable too.

Ideal age: Newborn to 6 months

Do you know how much your mouth starts to hurt after saying “shhh” over and over again? Real moms say this little device is a game changer. It perfectly emulates the sound to do the hard work for you in 30- to 60-minute increments. “Although we use a sound machine at night, I still consider this gadget a must-have,” says new mom Jillian Shatken, creative director of womenswear at clothing designer Saylor. “It perfectly emulates a verbal ‘shhh’ and is ideal for calming down an overtired baby at nap time. It is truly a miracle machine.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 6 months

It’s no surprise this little toy has more than 38,000 glowing reviews on Amazon. It’s a relatively budget-friendly baby gift that’s highly interactive. “One of my coworkers gave us this when my son was born, and it went on to entertain all four kids,” says Earley. “Now it’s something I love to buy for other families.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 12 months

Once baby pulls up a seat at the table (figuratively, of course), seasoned mums like Earley say, this silicone plate is key to keeping food where it should be — on the table or in baby’s mouth. That’s because it suctions to the surface, so even the most squirmy baby can’t send their entire pile of food flying across the room.

Ideal age: 6 months to 2 years

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The Hatch sound machine isn’t on a million wish lists by mistake—it’s even the number one item on Babylist registries. This audio monitor, clock, and white noise machine is essential for creating the perfect environment for babies to drift off more easily. Parents love that it works with an easy-to-use app and also functions as a night-light for those midnight nappy changes now, and as a security blanket for the kid later.

“Just be prepared to buy multiple,” says Earley. “My husband liked our son’s so much that he was constantly taking it out of the nursery. Now we have five—one for each kid and one for us.”

Ideal age: Any!

There’s just something about a crinkly toy that gets a baby every time. Parents we spoke to said this one is particularly engaging, because it boasts multiple ways to play. In addition to the crinkly paper, there’s also a teething ring, textured tabs, and a plush mushroom to snuggle with. For parents, it’s pretty easy on the eyes. “I was always looking for aesthetically pleasing toys once my entire living room was taken over by baby things,” says Kaufman.

Ideal age: Newborn and up

Even parents of breastfeeding babies will need to tote bottles around at some point—when baby starts nursery, for an afternoon with the grandparents, carrying pumped milk home from the office, etc.—and if they’ll be out for a while, they’ll need to keep the milk or formula cold. “We used the same little insulated bag with both my daughters through their first year and beyond, swapping out the bottles for yogurt pouches and water once they outgrew bottles,” says Kaufman. “We basically never leave the house for more than a coffee run without it.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

If the family logs a lot of miles, this unique “suitcase” will come in handy during the toddler years. The rolling luggage houses a bed to turn an economy seat into a makeshift bed, but even better, it’s specially designed so the tot can ride through the airport. “We get so many compliments on this,” says Hurley. “And I always tell people, it really does make the monumental task of traveling with toddlers easier.”

Ideal age: 1 to 3 years

Lovevery’s curated play kits have become a registry favourite among parents for its developmentally appropriate — and aesthetically pleasing — toys. It’s a great on-going gift, too: Choose the subscription model, and a new kit will be delivered every two to three months as the child grows. “My kids always reach for their Lovevery toys first,” says Moeslein. “I love that the kits also come with tips and suggestions for additional play activities. It’s amazing to watch them learn and explore in real time.”

Ideal age: Newborn and up

We’re not sure how in 2024 the packaging for baby wipes is still so inconvenient, but it is. It can be hard to pull out a wipe one-handed, and the entire package can dry up fairly quickly if not closed properly. “I didn’t think I needed one of these, but a slightly more experienced new mum sent me one when I had my first baby with a ‘trust me’ note, and she was right,” says Kaufman.

Ideal age: Newborn and beyond

Something colourful and high contrast can help make tummy time more entertaining, and encourage babies to lift their heads, says Dr. LeVos. “My kids were totally captivated by cards like these,” says Earley. “They were perfect for tummy time, yes, but I also thought they were great sanity savers while we were out and about, whether in the waiting room at the doctor or taking an airplane ride to visit family.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

“This portable high chair felt like my ticket out of the house,” says Earley. “Friends’ houses without kids? No problem, because I had a totally suitable chair for baby to hand.” Yep, this chair folds completely flat but clips onto most tables and is sturdy enough to hold children up to 37 pounds (that’ll take you well into year two, maybe even year three).

Ideal age: 6 months to 3 years

Chances are the sleep-deprived new parent already has a sound machine, but they may not realise the beloved Hatch now comes in a portable version too. “I always had a sound machine clipped to my kids’ stroller and car seats,” says Earley. “It totally saved me in crowded restaurants, busy playgrounds, and on long road trips.”

Ideal age: Newborn and up

Truthfully, this is a great gift no matter the gender. “I read these to my son and daughter at bedtime,” Moeslein says. “They’re too young to fully comprehend the stories now, but they like the colourful illustrations. And as they grow older, I hope they’ll both be inspired by the stories of pioneers like Maya Angelou and Gloria Steinem.”

Ideal age: Newborn and up

So many parents swear by this baby kick and play gym that it’s become a viral hit on TikTok and John Legend even covered the toy’s most popular song. “I respect any toy that can take that level of physical abuse from a baby off my plate,” one parent previously told GLAMOUR about the Purple Monkey phenomenon. “Between the dangling animals, infectious tracks, and flashing keys, there was enough here to easily occupy my baby for a solid 15 minutes. And raising a baby is really just stringing together 15-minute blocks of entertainment until you drop.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 36 months

There are some baby products that gain so much popularity by word of mouth, they become almost lore. The Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle and Teether is one example. “My friend recommended it to me after a friend had recommended it to her, who had another friend recommend it to her,” says Moeslein. “I’ve already told a pregnant friend that it’s a must for her registry, so I’m keeping the chain going. It’s a simple sensory toy, but it was a big hit with my kids from newborn up through the teething stages.” Moeslein recommends just going ahead and adding the “frequently bought together” Bright Starts Oball Shaker Toy to your cart. “They really are a dynamic duo.”

Ideal age: Four months to one year

The numbers don’t lie: With high ratings on Amazon and Goodreads, this 12-book set is one of the most reliable gifts you can find on the internet. Moeslein recommends as a gift because it covers all the early learning basics — colours, shapes, counting, letters, and seasons included — and comes in a fun case with a handle so it can be taken on the go.

Ideal age: Newborn and up

Let’s just say it: The Snoo is the GOAT. For sure, it’s an investment—though the company does offer a monthly rental option—but if you are willing to spend the cash, it can be a lifesaver. “My daughter loved her Snoo,” says McNeal. “It calmed her with its rocking motion and sound, but the best thing it did for me was establish safety and trust. I always felt safe with her in the Snoo, and that helped me rest as well.”

Ideal age: Newborn to six months

Unless one of the parents is a labour and delivery nurse, using a traditional swaddle blanket can be intimidating and frustrating. Plus, babies can be surprisingly picky about what they do—and don’t — want to wear. Save them all hours of trial and error, and restless nights, with this gift box. It comes with three of the most popular swaddles on the market, giving them the gift of experimentation.

Ideal age: Size 8-13lbs

“My daughter Luna was obsessed with these books,” shares Rebecca Cope. “They were great for long car journeys or cafe trips to keep her entertained.” These soft books with crinkly bits to pull and play with are good for developing fine motor skills in babies, and they're wipe-clean for any reflux-prone ones, too.

Ideal age: Newborn to 9 months

A beautiful wind-up musical box is a must for any little girl. We love this wooden carousel design, which can be passed down from generation to generation as an heirloom.

Ideal age: Newborn onwards

Some babies like to sit up but struggle to keep balanced. This clever toy allows them to sit up comfortably for a while while being distracted by the toys in front, which is ideal if you've got a wobbly one who isn't keen on practicing sitting up. What's more, it's also got 3 other modes, so you can do tummy time et all.

Ideal age: From four months

You can't go wrong with a beautiful baby blanket, and chances are, while mama might think she's got enough, she hasn't. Ideal for the pram, the car, cuddles on the sofa… the uses are endless. These gorgeous ones from The White Company are super soft and will last a lifetime.

Ideal age: From birth

A personalised gift will always show that you've put the extra effort in. These Jelly Cat comforters are customisable with baby's name, which is particularly good if you've got any handsy playgroup buddies.

Ideal age: From birth

“I always got so many comments (and compliments!) when my daughter wore her ‘milking it’ oneside – it's just such a funny slogan,” shares Cope. This set features Claude & Co stretch organic-cotton bodysuit, Liewood cotton muslin cloth, Liewood pack of two suction bowls, Organic Zoo organic-cotton babygrow and Liewood pack of two organic-cotton muslin cloths – basically, everything a new parent might need.

Ideal age: Newborn to three months

“I was always jealous of my friends whose babies had these during pram walks or café trips, it's one of my biggest regrets that I didn't get one for my little girl!," shares Cope. This super-affordable pram wrap has loads of sensory bits to engage little hands, including mirrors, crinkles and soft toys.

Ideal age: Newborn to one year old

Trust us, any new parent needs this. It's bad enough that you've only got six weeks to register the baby's name, let alone work out how to keep the flimsy piece of paper that their birth certificate comes on safe. Avoid scrunched up disasters with this beautiful silver holder from John Lewis – a really thoughtful gift.

Ideal age: Newborn onwards

“Dribble Days bandana bibs are elite,” says Cope. “When my daughter was teething, these were the only ones that could withstand the crazy amounts of drool.” In addition to coming in a variety of fun designs, the absorbent fabric, a combination of cotton and fleece, is so soft that it won’t irritate any sensitive skin (important when drool rash becomes a constant struggle).

Ideal age: Newborn to 24 months

While they're small, you can dress them in whatever you want. Indulge mums who want to go down the traditional route with this super sweet vintage feel knitted set that includes bloomers, bonnet and cardigan.

Ideal age: Newborn to nine months

This porcelain hand-crafted night light has a fun rainbow LED inside that you can either pause on one colour or allow to scroll through them all for a truly magical night time experience. “My daughter has just started to show signs of being afraid of the dark, so she loves her little magical fairy house, sometimes she even has to take it to bed with her," says Cope. “I always remove it once she's asleep though, don't @ me!”

Ideal age: Newborn onwards

Everyone needs a Sophie La Giraffe. The cult French teether has become super popular with parents over the years for its chic design and ability to soothe aching gums as little ones start to teethe. “It's just the right size for a baby to hold,” shares Cope. “My daughter took hers everywhere. I ended up having to get a few as she'd often drop them and would go mad if there wasn't another clean one nearby!”

Ideal age: Newborn onwards

Really spoil your newborn friend with this gorgeous five-piece set from La Coqueta. Beloved by the Royal Family, Princes George and Louis and Princess Charlotte have all been seen wearing the Spanish brands designs. This set is white with grey sheep themed embroidery, and includes the Victoria embroidered sleepsuit and vest with matching mitts, hat and bib.

Ideal age: Newborn

There's a reason the Tripp Trapp highchair has become a word-of-mouth favourite and won countless design and parent awards. Aesthetically-pleasing, these wooden chairs seamlessly adapt as your child grows, and can be used throughout childhood. “I love my Tripp Trapp,” shares Cope. “The only slight downer is you have to pay for the extra bits like the table, straps etc, but it's worth it.”

Ideal age: Newborn onwards

The weaning stage can be a trying one – particularly if your friend's baby has a strong grip and a throw reflex. Thankfully, this set sticks to highchairs, ensuring a lot less spillages. Featuring a catchy-bib, soft spoons, and an open cup for when their child is bigger, it's a really comprehensive weaning set.

Ideal age: Six months onwards

These personalised baby name cardigans have been a big thing on Instagram since the pandemic, and it's easy to see why. A great forever gift, parents can keep them once their baby has grown out of them, and then just look at them and cry at how small they once were.

Ideal age: Newborn

A nice and affordable personalised option, this print features the baby's name, date of birth and more, and can be upgraded with a beautiful frame if you're feeling extra generous.

Ideal age: Newborn

“As my daughter was an October baby, her footmuff was a non-negotiable from birth, pretty much,” shares Cope. “This one is a good choice for someone who might be switching between prams, as it's a universal style.”

Ideal age: Newborn

Any seasoned parent knows buttons are a no-no, especially during midnight nappy changes. Baby Mori's sleepsuit is much more efficient. “They are the easiest outfit to get on and off,” says Cope. “And the soft fabric is so stretchy. I want one in adult size!"

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

Nobody told us how difficult – and stressful – cutting a baby's nails would be. Enter, Tommee Tippee's clever electric nail file, which takes the fear out of the entire process.

Ideal age: Newborn

Child's Farm is known for being elite baby bathcare. This suitcase features all their favourite products, including bubble bath, baby wash, moisturiser and nappy cream.

Ideal age: Newborn

“The Baby Mori clever sleeping bag is genuinely the best investment I've ever made for my daughter,” shares Cope. “She's wearing it still at almost 2, and it made an almost immediate different to her sleep when I got it. To be honest, I'd like one for me, too. Why haven't they invented adult sleeping bags like this yet?!”

Ideal age: Newborn to 2 years

Plot twist: Not all babies love bath time, so getting a warm, cozy, and absorbent hooded towel to cuddle them up in will help make things more comfortable. “These towels make the perfect photo opp too,” says Cope. “My mum got me a similar one, and she had a cute snap after almost every bath.”

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

“I was given one of these otters when my daughter was born and it was a life saver, with the white noise helping her to stay asleep when I was trying to potter around nearby,” shares Cope. Featuring a glowing tummy, different songs and sounds, it's a great addition to the newborn routine.

Ideal age: Newborn

This vintage wooden baby walker will get your friend's little one on the go in no time, off on an adventure around… the living room. Ideal for tidying up toys – which anyone will know toddler's love to do.

Ideal age: From 1 year

Award-winning small business Etta Loves is a firm favourite amongst the Insta-mum set for its chic black and white muslins, ideal for newborns whose sight has developed to see colour yet. This next stage toy – a teether with a multi-coloured muslin attached – is ideal for four months and up.

Ideal age: Four months

Everyone has the intentional of keeping up with their baby book, but you actually need a really easy to follow and fill out one like this to make that a reality. Based on the popular “I love you to the moon and back” children's story, it's also beautifully designed for your bookshelf.

Ideal age: Newborn

Stuck on what to get? This newborn kit has sensory flashcards, a tummy time pillow, teether and other fun bits and bobs to entertain your friend's new arrival.

Ideal age: Newborn

Quite possibly the most recommended sensory toy for newborns, Captain Calamari is a Lamaze classic, with crinkly legs, different textures, mirrors and bright colours. Garish, maybe. Endlessly entertaining for little ones? Definitely.

Ideal age: Newborn onwards

Mums will thank you for the Catchy, a food-catching device that you can attach to pretty much any high chair to stop all that mushy broccoli and carrot sticks ending up on the carpet.

Ideal age: Six months

There is nothing cuter than a baby in a personalised robe – fact. This sweet set from My 1st Years also includes a fluffy towel and a bunny rabbit toy, so there's no confusion over whose towel is whose. “I have a pink one for my daughter Luna and it's honestly the cutest thing ever,” says Cope. “Plus, way softer than my own towels.”

Ideal age: Newborn

Chances are you've seen these angel wing pieces by childrenswear brand Marie-Chantal before, as they are super popular with influencers and celebrities looking for a super sweet Insta-pic. Featuring wings on the back, this set comes with two playsuits, two bodysuits and a bonnet.

Ideal age: Newborn to 1 year

A baby in sunglasses is 100% guaranteed to elicit fawning gasps from strangers on a walk. “I never got stopped by more people than when I had my three-month-old daughter in trendy sunglasses,” says Cope. “They look so funny and adorable.” The stretchy backstrap here helps actually keep them on the baby’s head instead of getting tossed on the floor.

Ideal age: Newborn to 2 years

Made in soft fluffy material in a dreamy white and grey colour palette, this set from Mamas and Papas will fit into the chicest of homes nicely. We particularly love the sweet penguin attachments.

Ideal age: Newborn to six months

At just £20, this really is a steal, and so clever too. Velcro-fastening to cover any pram, it's great for encouraging little ones to nod off during a walk, and also doubles up as a sun canopy in the summer, too. “I wouldn't go anywhere without it,” shares Cope.

Ideal age: From newborn

Make dirty dummies a thing of the past with this nifty on-the-go steriliser, which uses UV light to kill germs within a minute. Easy to attach to the pram or nappy bag, it's a life saver if you've got a bub who literally throws their toys out the pram.

Ideal age: From newborn

Whoever invented the Rockit frankly deserves an OBE. This super clever pram rocker is ideal for those whose babies love falling asleep on a pram walk, but then immediately wake up once the wheels stop moving – whether that's at home or in the pub. Enter: the Rockit, which mimics the motion of walking and automatically switches off after 30 mins.

Ideal age: From newborn

“I was extremely jealous of my friends who had these,” shares Cope. “Although maybe my arm muscles got more defined without one. ” Sure, it's a big investment and isn't cheap at £134.99, but it's amazing at lulling babies to sleep with ease thanks to its gentle rocking motion.

Ideal age: From newborn

Can't afford the Artipoppe? Then the Cuddle Carrier by Momcozy is for you. With three settings so that you can switch things up as your baby grows, it's super supportive and comfortable, and comes in a range of shades and prints.

Ideal age: From newborn