Baby gifts: the guide to getting it right
A friend or family member is expecting, and the classic moment arrives: what do you get them? Here's how to get it right, in the two most common situations.
If there is a registry
This is the easy case: buy something from the registry, even partially via a fund if the item is pricey. The parents chose it on purpose, you know it'll actually get used, and there's no risk of duplicates.
If there isn't one
- A portable changing pad, useful from day one, never over-received
- Clothes in size 3-6 months rather than newborn, babies outgrow newborn sizes fast
- A prepared meal or a cleaning-service voucher, underrated, always appreciated
What's better to avoid
Giant stuffed animals (parents usually already have plenty) and large quantities of newborn-size clothes, which only get worn for a few weeks.
By budget, if you want a benchmark
- Under €30: a size 3-6 months outgrow-proof outfit, a fabric book, or a pharmacy gift card for the products parents keep buying anyway
- €30 to €80: a baby carrier or wrap, a pack of larger-size bodysuits, or a contribution to a bigger group gift
- Over €80: a share of the car seat or stroller through a group gift split between several people, usually more useful than a standalone gift at that price
What if the baby already arrived?
It's never too late to do it right. A meal delivered in the month after birth, a cleaning service, or simply asking the parents what they actually need beats an item picked at random the day before.
If you're expecting yourself and don't have a registry yet, Kickoala lets you create one for free, so your loved ones never have to face this dilemma.