Baby & Child Care Tips for Parents
13 great gifts for a newborn
The must-haves that are sure to please new parents and babies alike
When it comes to buying gifts for a newborn, practicality and cuteness are equally important. Yes, it’s tempting to buy the biggest teddy you can find, but blankets, muslins, towels and sleep aids will delight tired parents and lighten their load. So let’s shop, because you’ll find everything that you need – and they want – with us.
The most marvellous muslins
Muslins are truly one of the best gifts you can give new parents, because they’ll be used for years to come for on-the-go changes, wiping up spills and everything else that life with a little one throws at you. This three-pack from Etta Loves features wonderful monochrome designs that are loved by little eyes.
The cute cuddly
Every baby needs a fluffy, cuddly friend to keep them company in their cot, and the adorable Bashful Bunny comforter is hard to beat. Jellycat is world-famous for its super-soft, ridiculously cute designs. This one is the perfect size for self-soothing, too.
The dream outfit
From the bestselling Heirloom Collection at John Lewis, this adorable long-sleeve bodysuit and dungarees set combines traditional charm (just look at that collar detail) with fresh, modern design. The poppers make for easy nappy changes, plus it’s all 100-per-cent cotton – so you know it won’t irritate a little one’s skin.
The cosy towel
What’s better than gifting something that you know is going to be used every day? From a newborn’s first bath (and well into toddlerhood), a hooded towel is an essential bit of kit. This cosy duo from Aden + Anais is made from soft cotton muslin, and features cute printed animals.
The classic baby blanket
With a breathable cellular design that’s safe for babies, this blanket will become a firm favourite with any new parent. Made lovingly in the UK from pure certified organic cotton, it has a satin trim around the border for a super-soft feel, plus there are lots of colours to choose from.
The best for baby bath time
Cowshed’s caring collection of natural products is designed to protect and nourish young skin. This trio of products features a hair and body wash to keep little ones clean, plus a lotion and oil duo to moisturise skin. Enriched with essential oils and plant extracts, they are gentle, effective and – as an added bonus – smell divine.
The everyday sleepsuit
In those hazy, early newborn days, a sleepsuit is pretty much the only thing a baby will wear. Easy to put on and take off, John Lewis sleepsuits are made from 100-per-cent cotton, with optional fold-over hand covers to keep little fingers cosy – and stop them from scratching delicate skin.
The ultimate teething toy
In just a few months, that tiny newborn will be teething and they’ll need something to chomp on to help soothe their sore gums. Meet Sophie La Girafe, a multi-award-winning squeezy toy made from natural rubber that can be chewed and slobbered on safely all day and night.
A mini-me outfit
It’s never too early to start building a baby’s first capsule wardrobe. This adorable olive green Breton-stripe top and leggings combo, made from 100-per-cent cotton, is great for layering with a cute cardigan on chillier days.
Their first wooden toy
You don’t have to buy a baby a gift that can be used immediately. Think ahead and go for something playful that they’ll use for years. This wooden rolling activity mirror has colourful and stimulating features, and is perfect for tummy time. As it can occupy little ones for ages, their parents really will thank you.
The cosy hat
Because babies lose so much heat through their heads, hospitals pop a hat on them immediately after they’re born. This pack of two sweet designs – with ears for extra cuteness – will help ensure parents always have one to hand to keep their little one cosy. They’ll be worn again and again.
The iconic owl sleeping aid
With its soft-glow nightlight, Tommee Tippee’s Ollie Owl is a cute nighttime companion that can be attached to a cot to play soothing sounds and lullabies. Hugely popular for its promise to help babies (and new parents) get a good night’s sleep, this is one gift that really does keep giving.
The long-sleeved bodysuit
Babies can get through three or four outfits a day (sometimes an hour!), so this pack of long-sleeved bodysuits will get plenty of wear. Super-cute colours and stripes add a dose of fun and, best of all, they wash like a dream.
