My Favorite Baby Shower Gifts That Moms Actually Use

Expecting a little one—or shopping for a new mama? With baby aisles overflowing with gear, gadgets, and adorable must-haves, it can be overwhelming to know what’s truly essential. (Trust me, I get it! As a mom of six, I’ve been there!)

What do you really need? What’s just nice to have? And what can you confidently skip? As a seasoned mom and former foster mom, I’m here to cut through the noise and share my go-to baby shower gift recommendations—along with a few tried-and-true favorites from other experienced parents.

(And be sure to also visit our giveaways as a couple of our brands here are sponsoring some fun prizes!)

The MUST HAVES

These items are ultimate faves. Tried. True. Worth the investment.

Mommy’s Bliss Baby Shower Gift Basket

The Mommy’s Bliss Baby Shower Basket Bundle is a thoughtful, ready-to-gift set that celebrates both mom and baby with love, comfort, and care. Beautifully curated with essentials for postpartum recovery and newborn wellness, it’s a simple, yet heartfelt way to support a new mom through those early days of motherhood. From soothing baby care items to nourishing products just for her, this basket covers every base — and even includes an adorable Puppy Pacifier Buddy that’s guaranteed to make everyone smile!

Inside, you’ll find a collection of trusted Mommy’s Bliss favorites, including the Newborn Essentials Gift Set, Postnatal Support Lactation + Probiotics, Lanolin Nipple Balm, and Lactation Hydration Drink Tablets in Berry Acai — everything a new mom needs to stay comfortable, hydrated, and supported. The set also includes an Organic Cotton Baby Blanket in a cheerful sunshine design for those sweet newborn snuggles. Beautifully packaged and backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, this basket is a thoughtful, high-quality gift that new parents will genuinely appreciate and use. — Buy This Mommy’s Bliss Baby Shower Basket: MommysBliss.com or shop the Mommy’s Bliss Amazon.com Store

Boobcube The First Drop Kit

As a mom who has used the plastic milk bags only to watch the milk go to waste because the seams leak or burst, I am SUPER excited about Boobcube. If you’re going to breastfeed and pump, this one is a MUST have! Thanks to Boobcube, everything you need to start storing breastmilk sustainably— is beautifully bundled in one easy-to-use kit.

Inside this kit, you’ll find:

• The Canteen – This BPA-free storage jar holds up to 8 oz of breast milk—safe, sustainable, and plastic-free.
• The Tray – With three pre-measured portion sizes (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 oz), the Tray lets you freeze milk in the perfect amounts for your baby—so every drop gets used. (You’ll get both the pink and yellow.)
• The Pouch – This durable, pinch-seal storage bag makes it easy to transport and thaw just-right servings, wherever the day takes you.

Boobcube is a game-changer for sustainable breastmilk storage. This all-in-one kit makes it easy to freeze, organize, and thaw breastmilk without the waste of single-use plastic bags. Thoughtfully designed for busy parents, Boobcube combines practicality with planet-friendly materials—making it a smart, stylish, and eco-conscious addition to any baby registry or gift basket. It’s the kind of gift that keeps on giving, one cube at a time. — Buy The Boobcube First Drop Kit: Boobcube.co (and don’t forget to use the coupon SAVE10 to receive a discount off your purchase!).

******SPECIAL BOOBCUBE DISCOUNT:  Use code THRIFTY25 to save 25%!  This EXCLUSIVE code will expire on Monday, December 1st, 2025 so order today! **Can not be combined with any other discounts or specials. After December 1st, SAVE10 will still be valid.

Stanley The Quencher Luxe Tumbler | 30 OZ

After you have a baby, you will be THIRSTY, especially if breastfeeding or pumping. I’ve found the easiest way to stay hydrated is by having my Stanley filled up and nearby. And while I was looking at their website lately, I came across their new, gorgeous Quencher Luxe.

The Stanley 1913 x JENNIE Collection is where bold design meets rare beauty. Dressed in dark florals with a luxe silver finish, this limited-edition drop brings serious star power to every sip. The exclusive motif charm set, featuring Jennie’s signature capybara design, adds a playful, personal touch you won’t find anywhere else. Making its debut, the 30-ounce Quencher Luxe Tumbler is built to turn heads—or at least keep you hydrated as you snuggle that new baby! — Buy This Gorgeous Tumbler: Stanley1013.com or shop Stanley on Amazon.com

VAVA 8” 1080P Baby Monitor

Baby monitors have come a long way in the last 20 years. Gone are the days of quietly pressing your ear to the nursery door, wondering if your little one is awake. Thanks to VAVA’s non-WiFi, privacy-protected monitors, keeping an eye on your baby is easier—and more secure—than ever.

First off, I love how clear the screen is. Every detail of baby’s world is beautifully captured with this 1080p display. The real-time audio and visual means that I know what’s happening every second — no delay. Plus, the auto night vision helps me see clearly, even in the dark.

This monitor is loaded with so many great features:

• Two Way Talk: Allows you to soothe your baby, no matter where you are in the house.
• Safe: No Wi-Fi needed, this monitor is secure so you never have to worry about anyone hacking their way into your space.
• Stable Connection: The monitor uses a stable 2.4GHz wireless connection, which is interference-free and secure. This ensures a reliable video feed with no need for Wi-Fi, protecting your privacy.
• 1080P and 8″ HD display
• Zoom: The Auto-pilot mode with 2X and 4X zoom allows a closer look as needed.
• Pan/Tilt The Camera: Easily pan 108° vertically and tilt 270° horizontally right from the monitor unit for flexible viewpoints.

Super portable, we’ve taken this monitor with us to hotels and on vacations! I love being able to monitor little ones with ease; without having to peek in and disturb them. It is truly one of my top must-haves. — Buy This VAVA Baby Monitor: Vava.com

Freshly Picked Classic Diaper Bag II

Once you have kids, gone are the days where you can just run out the door without a second thought. Babies need supplies! So you’re definitely going to want a great, quality diaper bag for those early years.

When we first started fostering, it had been a few years since we’d had a baby in the house. I’ll never forget one of our very first outings — we pulled into the library parking lot, I got out, unbuckled this sweet, tiny 1 month old baby, carried him inside, sat down… and that’s when it hit me.

I had only brought the baby (and my bigger kids).

No diaper bag.
I had no formula.
And no extra clothes, no diapers, no wipes, no toys — nothing.

Just me and a very unprepared flashback to babyhood.

Thankfully, the library was only 10 minutes from home. Lesson learned!

One of my all-time favorite brands is Freshly Picked. (I’ve been a customer for years!) When we found out we were expecting our little caboose, Ruby, the very first—and only—thing I bought for her during the first six+ months of pregnancy was several pairs of their adorable moccasins. Not only are they irresistibly cute, but they actually keep those tiny baby socks from slipping off (a small miracle in itself!). While Freshly Picked is best known for their baby mocs, they also offer a seriously impressive line of bags that are just as stylish and functional.

The Classic Diaper Bag II was designed for moms by moms. It has a large capacity, ease of use, durability, and style. Both functional and beautiful, with the redesign, it now has padded shoulder straps, a mom compartment, and mesh interior pockets too. It is truly a beautiful bag that will help you conquer every outing and adventure you and baby go on. — Buy The Freshly Picked Classic Diaper Bag: FreshlyPicked.com (<— and get $10 off through this link!). You can also watch my unboxing video here.

Mommy’s Bliss Baby Little Gums Essentials Kit

These products have been a lifesaver during baby’s first year. You can easily soothe your little one’s discomfort with the Mommy’s Bliss Baby Little Gums Essentials Kit, a thoughtful bundle designed to bring gentle relief to teething and oral discomfort. Perfect for new parents or as a practical baby shower gift, this set includes Infant Pain + Fever Acetaminophen to ease discomfort, Organic Gum Massage Gel to calm tender gums, and Little Gums Soothing Oral Tablets for safe, natural support. Each product is made with care and crafted to be gentle on little tummies. They’re perfect for helping restore comfort and smiles so you and your baby can enjoy more of those precious, happy moments together. — Buy This Mommy’s Bliss Essentials Kit: MommysBliss.com or Amazon.com

Joovy Room All-In-One Playard

I LOVE products that are multifunctional. — And the Joovy Room All-In-One Playard is a thoughtfully designed, all-in-one nursery center that grows with your baby. Featuring a full-size bassinet, a convenient changing table, and a spacious playard, it combines functionality and style to simplify every stage—from newborn naps to toddler playtime—without overwhelming your space.

Features Include:

• REMOVABLE BASSINET: that holds babies up to 15 pounds.
• FLIP AWAY CHANGING TABLE: with a 25-pound weight capacity.
• DELUXE ORGANIZER: to hold all of your diapers, wipes, and necessities.
• NO SCRATCH WHEELS: to protect your hardwood floors.
• SAFETY IS PARAMOUNT: with ultra-wide frame for zero-tip stability and mesh walls for visibility.
• TRAVEL BAG INCLUDED: and it sets up quickly and folds down just as easily.
• WATERPROOF SHEET INCLUDED: is extra soft and cozy.

The new Joovy Room Playard and Nursery Center delivers exceptional convenience and functionality, all wrapped in a sleek, modern design. This full-featured, all-in-one solution includes a bassinet, changing station, and playard to support every stage of your baby’s early years. One standout feature is the flip-away changing table, designed with a durable, easy-to-clean vinyl surface—no fabric, no fuss—making diaper changes quicker and more hygienic. — Buy The Joovy Room Playard: Amazon.com or Joovy.com

Baby Einstein Farm Explorers 4-in-1 Kickin’ Tunes Musical Meadow

A play mat for floor and tummy time is an absolute must! I love having a safe, baby-friendly place to lay my little ones down for a bit to play and this Baby Einstein Farm Explorers 4-in-1 Kickin’ Tunes Musical Meadow is absolutely adorable.

Designed to grow with your little one from newborn to toddler (0–36 months), this versatile discovery gym offers four ways to play: lay and play, tummy time, sitting up, and on-the-go. It’s the perfect companion through every stage of early development.

Packed with engaging features to spark curiosity and support motor skill growth, this interactive play gym includes 6 removable toys, a self-discovery mirror, a textured carrot toy, colorful flash cards, and a crinkle book filled with friendly farm animals. At the center of it all is the kick-activated piano, which lights up and plays 25+ minutes of continuous music while teaching colors, shapes, and numbers in English, Spanish, French, and German.

Whether they’re reaching, kicking, or crawling, your baby will explore the sights, sounds, and textures of the farm—developing fine and gross motor skills along the way. — Buy This Play Mat: Amazon.com

Warm Pals: 1i4 Group – Heatable Coolable Bedtime Comfort Plushie – Louie Lion

I LOVE Warm Pals! These are no regular stuffed animals. Instead, they’re designed with applications for whole body wellness.

When our foster baby was a newborn, I would warm her Warm Pals bunny up and place in her crib shortly before putting her down. This would warm up her bed and leave a soft lavender scent behind. (I did remove from the crib before putting her down.). I love how these super soft, super cuddly buddies will ‘grow’ with your baby’s needs as they age too. Use it warm or cold, there’s so many benefits!

• HEAT IT UP: Warm in the microwave for 60-90 seconds. Shake every 30 seconds to distribute heat evenly. Use it WARM to help soothe stiff muscles, relax at bedtime, and keep you toasty on those cold nights.
• COOL IT DOWN: Chill in the freezer for 2-3 hours. Use COLD to help inflammation, ease pain from bumps & bruises, or cool you off on hot summer days.

Filled with all-natural grains to simulate weight and comforting pressure therapy for all ages. Their heavy hugs can help ease pain, muscle spasms, grief/trauma responses, and sleep issues as your baby grows into toddlerhood. — Buy Your Warm Pals Buddy: Amazon.com

Boppy Uplift Nursing Pillow – Tan Pebbles

Let me start off by saying that nursing pillows are NOT just for breastfeeding mamas! I’ve used a Boppy for every single one of my babies. But guess what? So has my husband! He loves how their nursing pillows offered support when he would bottle-feed our littles. We’ve also found them to be helpful when ‘big’ siblings want to bottle-feed the new baby too, under our supervision of course. (ARM SAVER!)

The brand-new Boppy Uplift nursing pillow is thoughtfully designed to support your baby in the optimal feeding position, helping reduce reflux and spit-ups — whether you’re bottle feeding, breastfeeding, or doing a mix of both.

Crafted for comfort and versatility, it features a wide, contoured shape that fits securely and comfortably around the waist of any parent or caregiver. The removable, adjustable belt extends 40% further than standard nursing pillows, ensuring a snug fit and doubling as a convenient carrying strap.

For added ease, it includes a built-in handle so you can carry it one-handed, plus a handy pocket to keep pacifiers, burp cloths, or other essentials within arm’s reach. — Buy Your Boppy Uplift: Target.com or Amazon.com

GoldBug x Allyson Felix Compact Diaper Bag/Slin

While there are long days where a bigger diaper bag is a necessity, there are other times where it’s not worth the hassle. On those occasions, the Cross Body Sling from GoldBug is the perfect solution!

This Compact Diaper Bag holds it all—diapers, wipes, toys, and snacks— but without the bulk. Because when you’re already carrying baby, car seat, and other essentials, the last thing you need on a quick run into the grocery store is a full pack.

Featuring internal mesh pockets, exterior zipper pockets, and an accessory bag perfect for a paci, it carries a big organizational punch. Includes wipeable changing pad for on-the-go changes. You will love it! — Buy This Compact Sling Diaper Bag: GoldBug.com or Amazon.com

GoldBug x Allyson Felix Deluxe Winter Carrier Cover

We live in Minnesota and an infant carrier cover is a MUST. True necessity! When it gets cold, the best way to keep the wind and chill out is with the GoldBug x Allyson Felix Deluxe Winter Carrier Cover.

PRO PARENT TIP: When you’re in the market for a cover like this, be sure to choose one that goes OVER your car seat, shower cap style. This is the safest style as you don’t want to put anything between your baby and the interior of the seat.

This Deluxe Carrier Cover is the perfect accessory for cool-weather travel or strolls, featuring soft fabric and cozy lining to keep your baby warm. With elasticized edging and a full-zip function, the cover fits most infant car seats. — Buy This Car Seat Cover: GoldBug.com or Amazon.com

Graco GoMax Travel System

The GoMax Travel System is your all-in-one solution for stress-free travel with your baby—without taking over your trunk. Designed to replace bulky gear, it includes everything you need to bring your little one home from the hospital and head out on adventures for months to come.

This set comes with: GoMax Infant Car Seat, a base, a carry bag with backpack straps, and the GoMax Frame Stroller.

FEATURES YOU’LL LOVE:

• Ultra Lightweight Stroller Frame: The carseat snaps easily on and off this lightweight frame. Weighing in at just 9 pounds, it’s super easy for me to get in and out of the trunk.
• Ultra Compact Design: Measuring in folded at 19.75″x17.25″x7.5″, this stroller chassis stores practically anywhere.
• Rear Facing Car Seat: The GoMax Infant Car Seat protects rear-facing infants from 4-30 pounds, and up to 32″ long.
• Backpack-Style Carry Bag For Easy Travel: Whether road-tripping or flying, the frame fits into the included backpack style bag for safe keeping. This bag is also great for storing the frame when not in use; protecting it from dirt, scratches, and damage.
• Easy Installation: This seat features a built-in Insta-Install Rigid LATCH which allows the car seat to install safely in any vehicle in seconds, without a base! ***NOTE: A stay-in-car base is included as well as extras available for purchase; however, it is not required for install.
• Parent Tray: You will definitely appreciate Graco’s design team as they’ve included a parent tray with cup holder on the stroller frame!
• Smart, Easy To Use Design: This seat’s memory recline on LATCH connectors remembers the the last install recline position for an even faster install the next time you use it.
• No Re-Thread Harness: With the front-adjust, No-Rethread Simply Safe Adjust Harness System, the headrest and harness can be adjusted together while your child is in the seat. Once you own a seat with this, you’ll never go back!
• Comfort For All: A height-adjustable handlebar and front-wheel suspension help provide a comfy ride for both you and baby.

The Graco GoMax Travel System is seriously the best and I can’t say enough good things about it! It’s extremely lightweight and so easy to go from car to anywhere you need to go. — Buy The Graco GoMax: Amazon.com or (Read our full review here.)

Graco Stella 5 in 1 Convertible Crib

Over the years, I’ve noticed many of my babies just didn’t sleep well in their full-size cribs. It took me a while, but I think I finally figured out why: the cribs were simply too big and open. Once we made the switch to a mini crib, our sleep drastically improved!

The Graco Stella 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib with Mattress has been a game-changer for us. It’s ideal for parents who are working with less space but still want all the features and functionality of a full-size crib.

Despite its smaller footprint, this crib grows with your baby from infancy through toddlerhood. And since it comes with a mattress included, it’s not just space-saving—it’s also budget-friendly. For us, it was the perfect blend of comfort, practicality, and peace of mind. — Buy A Graco Mini Crib: Amazon.com

Ergobaby Omni Deluxe Carrier

A baby carrier has truly been a lifesaver over the years! When we had our first, I tried a cheap one from a big-box store… — Not only was it uncomfortable for me, but my baby cried every time I put her in it. I assumed baby-wearing just wasn’t for us. Turns out, I was so wrong! A high-quality carrier makes all the difference.

So when baby #2 was coming, I invested in an Ergobaby carrier. (This was based off the recommendation of a local mama who had six babies of her own.) That carrier was worth its weight in gold! I wore my chunky monkey for years, thanks to that original carrier. I loved how it allowed us to front or back wear. And when baby #3 (and more) came along, Ergobaby was always there to be my spare set of hands.

After visiting their website lately, I see there’s a new carrier in town; their Omni Deluxe Carrier. Awarded “Best Overall Carrier” by Parents Best for Baby 2025, Ergobaby’s latest carrier has it all, so you are ready for anything.

Ergonomic in all positions, this carrier allows for: facing in, facing out, back carry, and hip carry. Newborn ready and perfect to carry you through toddlerhood, it’s even designed with 6 storage areas for phone, wallet, keys – the most of any baby carrier on the market! — Buy The Ergobaby Omni Deluxe Carrier: Amazon.com or Ergobaby.com

GoldBug Fashion Crew Socks

Kids need socks but guess what? If you don’t get good ones, they don’t stay on! Meet your favorite socks for little feet = GoldBug Fashion Socks!

These assorted packs have everything you need from the infant stage through the toddler years — gender-neutral designs, non-slip grips, and easy matching indicators. Best of all, they actually stay on my kiddo’s feet! — Buy These Socks: GoldBug.com or Amazon.com

GoldBug Nesting Teether Toy

It’s no secret that babies love to play. Once they are a couple of months old, they really start to engage in the world around them. So when you start shopping for some toys, getting on that can attach to the carseat or stroller is especially helpful. (Babies don’t seem to comprehend Newton’s law of physics!)

This nesting teether toy helps encourage the playful side. It features an array of colors, shapes, textures and sizes to stimulate motor skills and dexterity development. The smallest ring is able to clip onto a car seat or stroller while on the go. But I especially love how it conveniently nests within itself for storage when not in use. — Buy This Teether Toy: GoldBug.com or Amazon.com

Freshly Picked First Pair City Leather Moccasins

It’s time to talk about the aforementioned Freshly Picked Moccasins! (I’ve been a devoted fan and customer for years!) I still remember watching founder Susan Petersen pitch the brand on Shark Tank back in 2014! These baby moccs are as functional as they are adorable, with soft, durable leather, classic fringe detailing, and an elastic opening that keeps them snugly on tiny feet (yes, even through those sock-losing kicks!). They’re perfect for pre-walkers and early walkers alike—and with bigger sizes available, your little one can keep wearing them well past the baby stage. A timeless, practical gift that parents will truly appreciate. — Buy Freshly Picked Moccasins: FreshleyPicked.com

Toddler Stroller

For this item, it’s going to MAINLY come down to preferences. There are some REALLY great options out there and I’ve loved a variety of strollers for many different reasons. So when you’re searching for the best one, you need to consider what the main uses will be. Do you need a compact stroller for quick errands? Will you need a larger, more comfortable stroller with all the bells and whistles? No matter what, some key features you will most definitely want to consider having include:

• Large Canopy: This is a must in my book because I want baby/toddler to be protected from the elements.
• Parent Tray: I’m not sure when most stroller companies went away from this but I LOVE me a good parent tray. I much prefer a built in one (more solid) over a cloth option that gets strapped on. It’s so inconvenient not having a place for a cup and my keys. So this is now a big MUST for me.
• Child Tray vs Belly Bar vs Nothing?: We’ve done it all. When it comes down to it, my kids have preferred having a child tray with built-in cup holder. It’s super handy to have a place to tuck a sippy cup and toss some snacks.
• Large Basket Underneath: Whether toting a huge diaper bag or just needing a place to dump everyone’s coats and gear, I’ve fallen in love with BIG baskets. (We just don’t travel light enough for mini or hard to access ones.)
• Do You Want This Stroller To Transform Into A Double?: Something to consider these days that just wasn’t a thing when we had our first is if you want a stroller that will grow with your family? Or would you rather live in the moment and when baby #2 comes along, upgrade to a double if needed at that time.

High Chair

Another must in my book but there are SO many to choose from. This item again comes down to features you want, space, and even color preferences. My top (personal) high chair choices are Nuna Zaaz, Abiie Beyond Junior Wooden High Chair with Tray, and Mockingbird High Chair.

SleepingBaby ZipadeeZip

My all-time favorite sleep sack is the swaddle transition from Sleeping Baby. It’s called the ZipadeZip! I could rave on and on about them but instead, go visit my previous blog posts where I give you all the background, our experience, and more. —->. My #1 Sleep Trick For Infants and Toddlers and Sleepingbaby ZipadeeZip Review. — Buy SleepingBaby ZipadeeZip: Amazon.com

Books!

You can never start reading to your kiddo too early so grab some adorable books and get into the habit from day one!

Just a Banana Board Book

Get ready to giggle! From the bestselling author of Beautiful Oops! comes a hilarious lift-the-flap book that turns an ordinary banana into endless imaginative surprises—a unicorn horn, a crescent moon, even a silly smile! With 10 interactive flaps and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, It’s Just a Banana makes a perfect stocking stuffer for creative, silly kids who love to see the world in unexpected ways. — Buy Just A Banana Board Book: Amazon.com

My First Milestones: Ready to Walk

Looking for the perfect gift to celebrate a little one’s big milestones? From the New York Times bestselling creator of How to Babysit a Grandpa comes a delightful new picture book series that captures the joy of growing up—starting with Ready to Walk! This charming story celebrates one of life’s most exciting firsts: taking those very first steps. With sweet illustrations, playful encouragement, and a heartwarming message about family and determination, Ready to Walk! makes a wonderful keepsake for new parents, baby showers, first birthdays, or any special moment along a child’s journey. — Buy Ready To Walk Board Book: Amazon.com

The Nice To Have

This category features some products that many parents LOVE but could live without.

Hiccapop Wipe Warmer & Dispenser

This is one of those products that you’ll find some parents can’t live without and others may have never tried. If you’ve got a sensitive little one that hates diaper changes, this wipes warmer and dispenser might be the ticket you’re looking for. It takes the jolt out of cold baby wipes while helping them stay accessible to caregivers.

Cold wipes shock a baby’s sensitive skin, making your baby irritable and fussy. Warm wipes soothe and calm your baby, especially during late night changes! It’s a product that is easily overlooked but could bring some real peace to the MANY daily diaper changes you’ll be doing. — Buy This Wipe Warmer/Dispenser: Hiccapop.com

Philips Avent Ultra Soft Pacifiers 

While not every baby will be a pacifer lover, I’ve had really good luck with Philips Avent Pacifiers. They are the ideal pacifier for newborn, fitting perfectly the mouth and face with its orthodontic design. — Buy The Philips Avent Pacifer: Amazon.com

Graco Simple Sway Swing

You’ll find that some babies LOVE swings and others won’t. So that’s why you’ll find it under my ‘nice to have’ category. It’s a wonderful tool when it works and you need two hands.

The Graco Simple Sway Swing is designed to keep your little one calm, cozy, and content. Its gentle side-to-side motion and six adjustable speeds let you find just the right setting for your baby’s mood. With 15 soothing songs and nature sounds, a plush headrest for extra support, and two-speed vibration, it’s a comforting haven for nap time or quiet moments. Plus, the option to plug in or use batteries means you can use it anywhere in the home—no matter the setup. — Buy This Graco Swing: Amazon.com

Tell me, what else would you add to this list? Did I forget anything?