What to Put in a New Baby Gift Basket (That Parents Actually Use)
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Let’s be real: new baby gift baskets can go one of two ways - Pinterest-perfect but totally useless or practical lifesavers that new parents will thank you for at 3 a.m. We’re going for the latter. Whether you are celebrating a new baby at home, attending a baby shower, or sending best wishes from afar, we pulled together an easy curated collection of tried-and-true favorites from our CityMoms that hit the perfect mix of useful, thoughtful, and a little luxe. And yes, we found a few things for the proud parents too — because sleepless nights deserve strong coffee (and hydration).
The Star of the New Baby Gift Basket: Bonobo Baby Bidet
Meet the Bonobo Baby Bidet - a small but mighty hero that makes diaper changes easier, cleaner, and more sustainable. It's designed as a portable mini-bidet that attaches directly to a wipes container, and delivers a gentle, controlled spray to keep baby fresh while cutting down on excessive wipes (and mess). Think of it as the modern parent’s must-have for on-the-go diaper duty - especially during those “how is this everywhere?” moments.
We discovered it this past spring and now we're smitten.
Bonobo Baby is compact enough to toss in your diaper bag, easy to refill, and perfect for quick cleanups that leave baby happy (or maybe that's just us?) and rash-free.
Here’s a perk for you: Enjoy a discount on your Bonobo Baby purchase at checkout with code CITYMOMS15 at bonobobaby.com.
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New Baby Gift Basket: For the Newborn
Here are a few practical items our CityMoms recommended that they reach for again and again:
Minnie Moon Diapers - Soft, absorbent, and gentle on baby’s skin. Bonus: they look cute even during those first photo-op diaper changes.
Honest Family Wipes - Clean ingredients and a solid seal so they never dry out. I love keeping one in every room... no seriously.
Sophie la Giraffe Teether - A timeless favorite for tiny hands and sore gums. It’s as photogenic as it is functional.
Frida Baby Vapor Bath Drops - Because no one tells you how real baby congestion can get. Relief in a bottle.
Itzy Ritzy Beaded Pacifier Clip - Keeps pacifiers off the floor (and out of the dog’s mouth). Plus, it’s chic.
Philips Avent Ultra Soft Pacifiers - Silky-smooth silicone that even the fussiest baby won’t reject.
Cloud Island Swaddle Blankets (3-Pack) - Breathable, stretchy, and adorable. Use them for swaddling, shade, nursing covers, or makeshift burp cloths.
Satin Edge Plush Baby Blanket - Because there’s no such thing as too many soft things for your precious newborn.
Pro tip: Stick with neutral tones and cozy textures - they work for baby boys and baby girls, and make your whole basket feel like a luxury newborn baby gift.
New Baby Gift Basket: For the Tired (But Thriving) Parents
Don’t forget the real MVPs behind the baby: the parents. I love adding a few thoughtful extras to help make those early weeks a little smoother for the whole family.
Stanley Tumbler - Hydration is survival. New moms (and dads) swear by it for keeping water cold through endless feedings.
Starbucks Bottled Vanilla Latte - Because sleep deprivation calls for comfort coffee. Add it to milk, creamer, or - let’s be honest - straight over ice.
Capri Blue Volcano candle - perfect for creating a mini moment of calm amid all the chaos.
A little snack - I love the GoMacro coconut, almond butter and chocolate chip snack bars, or any chocolate by Hu Kitchen.
New Baby Gift Basket: How to Wrap It Up
Here’s where you can have a little fun. Instead of a traditional basket, I love using a reusable storage bin, soft fabric hamper, or even a woven diaper caddy - it gives something the family can repurpose later. Line it with a neutral baby blanket like the plush one we recommended above, then layer your gifts by height for that Pinterest-ready moment.
Pro tip: If your giftee lives in like Los Angeles and you're on the east coast, you know how expensive shipping something of this size can be. So instead, save yourself a little dough by buying everything from a retailer like Target or Amazon and let the free shipping they offer do the rest. It's the perfect way to execute the baby gift idea you want, less the added costs of shipping.
