As we move on from our schooling years, we find ourselves navigating new stages of life. One of them is starting a family.
We’ve got you covered if you are looking for a meaningful and practical present to gift new parent-friends or colleagues. From sentimental keepsakes to essential items, here are some cute and practical baby gifts!
1) Bamboo Fabric products
Bamboo fabric is becoming increasingly popular as a material for baby products, and for good reason! Sustainable and eco-friendly — bamboo grows rapidly and requires less water than cotton — it is incredibly soft and gentle on delicate skin, hypoallergenic, and naturally antibacterial. This makes the fabric ideal for young ones and those who want to reduce their environmental footprint.
The highly breathable material is also moisture-wicking, which is particularly helpful in Singapore’s hot and humid weather.
For clothing and other essential items with charming locally-inspired prints, I recommend Piperluna! They’re a go-to on my gifting list, especially for their generously-sized swaddles that can grow with newborns to become toddler blankets.
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2) Wooden toys
Wooden toys are making a comeback! They are safer for babies to play with, as good quality ones don’t contain harmful chemicals, such as phthalates, or materials like plastic toys might. They are also easier to clean and maintain.
When properly cared for, they can be extremely long-lasting and durable; they can be passed down from generation to generation and have a less negative impact on the environment.
What’s more, wooden toys are often simple in design and encourage imaginative play —which is essential for early childhood development. Many are also good-looking and double up as great décor, too!
3) Personalised gifts
Personalized baby gifts are a great way to add a special touch and make something a unique keepsake the family will cherish for years to come! Here are a few options:
• Personalized storybooks
A personalized storybook is a fun gift! Parents can read it to their newborns to lull them to sleep, and the child can appreciate its contents when older. When the main character is named after them, they can better relate to the stories and imagine themselves on wonderful adventures! Companies like Wonderbly have a wide selection of books, with many genres, for children of all ages.
• Customized baby blankets
A customized baby blanket with his or her name/initials is a practical gift that can be used for years. Blanket choices range from those made with sustainable materials like organic cotton or bamboo, for an eco-friendly option, to fleece.
• Customized wall art
A personalized print or canvas with the newborn’s name or birth details (birthday, height and weight at the time of birth) can add a splash of colour touch to the nursery and become a treasured keepsake for years to come!
4) Baby milestone blankets and cards
Milestone blankets and cards are fun and creative ways for parents to document their baby’s growth and development. They’re less of a necessity and more of a want, so why not make some a gift? When outgrown, they can be passed on to other friends or family members who can use them too!
Look for blankets made from sustainable materials like organic cotton or bamboo. There are also many beautifully made milestone card sets that can be ordered off the internet.
5) Bibs
Bibs are relatively inexpensive compared to other baby essentials, making them a great option for a budget-friendly gift! They are also constantly in use, so new parents will appreciate having more of them around.
You can go for silicone bibs which are easier to wipe down, bandana drool bibs made from absorbent cotton, and choose between drool or food bibs. They come in many cute patterns too!
6) Gift Cards
Here’s the last, but certainly not the least!
If the new parents seem to have everything they need, why not give them a gift card? Whether it’s diapers, clothing, or other baby essentials, they’ll have the flexibility to make their own choices and get the items they want. Many baby essentials stores offer pretty digital gift cards if you’re looking for eco-friendly options.
Alternatively, you can get a gift card for your friends/colleagues/family member to use! Being a new parent is rewarding but challenging, with parents often prioritizing their baby’s needs over their own. Giving them a chance to pamper or indulge themselves will be very appreciated.
Choose one suited to the individual/couple’s tastes! It could be a spa treat, a dinner coupon, or even an electronics gift card.
Whether you opt for a practical, eco-friendly, or simply personalized gift, the most important thing is to show your love and support for the new family. Choose something within your budget, and as long as it’s well thought-out, we’re sure the recipients will appreciate it!
