A Sleep Consultants Top 5 Baby Shower Gift Recommendations
Who doesn't love welcoming a new baby into the world? Babies are signs of new beginnings, pureness and unconditional love. Going to baby showers are probably my favorite thing to dress up and go to because who doesn't love seeing tiny adorable baby socks?!
I have been to my fair share of showers (and have had two of my own thrown for me!), but something that always trips me up is what to select as the gift for the new mom. There are usually a huge list of items on a registry to choose from, and I'm always undecided on going for one big item or a bunch of smaller ones!
Since becoming a sleep consultant though, that has all changed! I now create what I call the "dreamers bundle" for all of my baby shower gifts to gift the mom-to-be the gift of starting her on great sleep! With SO many products on the market, it's almost impossible to know which are actually beneficial for baby. So the next time you have a baby shower to attend and are looking for gift ideas, pull up this post and know your gift will be both cherished and practical!
#1- Swaddle
As stated above, there are a million and on swaddles on the market for parents, grandparents, and gift-givers to choose from. While I found two brands I liked right away and stuck with them to make them work, I know others haven't had the same luck. My tried and tested brand is SwaddleMe as they have many swaddles to offer depending on the circumstances. Their pod swaddle is perfect for the newborn that loves the compression feeling of being held and snuggled while sleeping. It's made from a cotton/spandex blend that is movable but snug for baby to feel tight and secure!
This swaddle is perfect for those baby Hudini's out there who manage to escape every swaddle they are put into. They also have an original swaddle that both my boys enjoyed as it is 100% cotton and has the wrap to swaddle their arms at their sides or up by their face. They have so many different colors and patterns too, so it's easy to find anything from a neutral solid to a fun pattern!
#2- Sound Machine
Let's talk about a magical baby shower gift - Sound machines. These were something that I never knew the intrigue behind until I had my first son. I had never used one growing up, but knew some friends who slept with them on and thought it was weird. WHY did no one tell me how amazing they were? I would have jumped on the sound machine train way faster if I did!! Yogasleep creates my favorite sound machines, as both the Dohm for naps at home and the Hushh for naps on the go are perfect! Both are adjustable so you can determine how loud or soft you would like it to play.
#3- Blackout Shades
EZ Blackout Shades are my go to! There are a variety of shade sizes to match standard windows, but also have the option to create custom sizes. They are also super easy to install and don't require any tools! These have been a huge saver for us! Unfortunately, both boys rooms get a fair amount of sunlight in during the day. Relying solely on blackout curtains wasn't cutting it and these work beautifully. If you aren't sure of the size of the room or windows in the baby's nursery then gift certificates are available.
#4- Sheets
In a crib, the only thing that should be in there is a tight fitted sheet, so why not make it cute? Burts Bee's has both adorable and super soft fitted crib sheets that come in a huge variety from neutral solids to cute prints. Babies go through a lot (like a lot) of sheets. Between spit-up, diaper blow outs and pee leaks, so giving a mom-to-be a few extra sheets is a must!! I always layer our sheets for easy cleanup when things happen, so be sure to grab her some waterproof sheet liners as well!
#5- Bedtime Book
Bedtime routines are a very important part of getting a child to wind down before sleep. They can even start as soon as you come home from the hospital! I have complied a list of my top 10 favorite bedtime books. Right now I read the same book nightly with Baby J. At this point, Baby O picks his books depending on his mood at the time!
BONUS
*You can never have too many onesies! Pack of onesies are super helpful to wear under sleepers, cute outfits, on just on their own. As my friend's baby is due in May, these will come in super handy during the summer. They're perfect for quick, cool outfits while lounging in the shade outside.
*To be the BEST gifter ever, make sure to include a copy of my newborn course that will help parents get onto a great sleep schedule and learn infant sleep hygiene. Lost sleep is inevitable for new parents as newborn sleep is sporadic and unpredictable. Knowing the expectations and ways to gently get their baby onto a good schedule will have them loving you forever!