Baby showers originated in ancient Rome and Egypt. After a mother gave birth to her baby, she was welcomed back into society with a party and gifts.

Today, baby showers continue to be a celebration. It’s a chance for family and friends to “shower” the new mom and baby with love and gifts.

You’ve probably been to at least one baby shower where the mom got multiple of the same thing. She doesn’t need 3 baby bathtubs, 4 nursing pillows or 7 baby nail clippers.

Instead of giving her a gift she might already have (or worse get at her shower), we’ve compiled a list of baby shower gift ideas that are sure to please the mom to be. Read on!

Practical Gifts

Though babies are so small they require a whole lot of essential gear. You can help the new mom a lot by giving her something practical that she will use all the time.

Expecting parents are told to get ready for a lack of sleep. But of course, you can’t really prepare for it. Gifting the new mom with items that may help her newborn sleep will be one of the best gifts for a baby shower you can give.

For example, a sound machine can simulate the noise baby is used to hearing in the womb. These usually produce other sounds like a heartbeat, waves, lullabies etc.

A gentle nightlight for those late night feedings will also be super helpful.

Diapers. There is no such thing as too many diapers. Babies go through around 10 diapers a day in their first month.

The other guests may not ooh and ah at this gift, but the new mom will certainly use and appreciate them. If you want to add some cuteness to your gift, turn your diapers into a diaper cake.

Read 7 ways to cope when your baby is a fussy eater.

Keepsake Baby Shower Gift Ideas

Sometimes new moms get so lost in the day-to-day care of their new baby that they forget to record the special milestones in their child’s development.

There are various keepsake gift ideas for a baby shower that the new mom will treasure once the baby days are long behind.

A growth chart is one of those lovely baby shower gifts that are always well received. Kids love to see how they have grown in the past. It will be a treasured keepsake for years to come.

You can make your own rustic growth chart, or buy one that is personalized with the babies name (if you know what it is).

A baby’s first year book is another wonderful baby shower gift idea. The new mom can document baby’s first solids, when she cut her first tooth, the date of his first steps and her first word.

Soft, velvety loveys are also excellent gifts for baby showers. Kids can never have too many cherished snuggly items.

Chances are that your gift will be a favorite and become so well-loved that it will end up in the keepsake box.

Last Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed reading these baby shower gift ideas. Remember, a baby shower is a way to show the new mom-to-be love and support.

Any thoughtful gift will be appreciated. Include the gift receipt so she can exchange it if there’s something else she needs instead.

Want to give mom a gift just for her? Check out the best gifts for women in 2018.