First-time parents often have little idea of what things they will actually need for their newborn. Sure, they know the big items — cribs, strollers, and diapers — but in a time of coronavirus where expectant parents are spending less time with their parent friends, it’s easy to miss putting certain essentials on a gift registry. Fortunately, Parentology has a list of 15 practical baby gifts for under $20 that you’ll need and your friends can afford.
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Now, onto the list…
1. Organic Nursing Pads
Nursing pads are a must-have for any new mom. These high-quality, washable pads are made of natural bamboo cotton and are soft, comfortable and silky. Though any new mom would love these lacy beauties, they are ideal for mothers with sensitive skin. You can get a set of 10 for just $13.99 on Amazon.
2. Inkpad for Baby’s Handprint and Footprint
For real safety and identification purposes, you’ll want to get your child a digital footprint scan. But for the ultimate gift of sentimentality? Pearhead’s “Clean Touch” Ink Pad in black allows new moms and dads to get a carbon copy of their little one’s digits with ease.
3. Baby Book
A baby book is always a huge hit. Pearhead’s Chevron Memory Book includes 50 pages for documenting up to five years of baby milestones. It also includes a clean-touch ink pad. Find it for $19.99 in up to four colors.
4. Magic Reflection Ball
Who says new parents can’t eat out in peace? The People Magic Reflection Ball provides reflections from every angle. It’s the ideal distraction for a little one learning about the world around him or her, and it’s only $8.99.
5. Backseat Mirror
This backseat mirror allows parents to keep an eye on their little ones even when they’re on the go. When it comes to baby gifts for under $20, this one is a must-have and only $17.99.
6. Baby Diaper Caddy Organizer
Make life easier on new parents and provide a diaper caddy. They store all your diaper-changing essentials such as diapers, wipes and cream. Find a Portable Caddy for $19.25.
7. Piggy Bank
One thing babies and young children get? A lot of money. Load all those coins and dollars into a ceramic piggy bank. It’s cool, fun, and kind of “old school.” for the granparents. You can find lots of cute ones online for less than $15.
8. Johnson’s Bath Gift Set
New parents often discover they can never have too much of certain items. One such item is baby soap. Give the gift of cleanliness in the form of this cute Johnson’s Six-Piece Bath Discovery Set, which you can find at Amazon for $19.92.
9. Milestone Stickers
“Hi, my name is Emma and I’m six-months-old. I like to…” You’ve probably seen many Facebook posts that start with pictures of baby wearing a numbered sticker. Get a set of 24—the additional 12 are for baby’s first Christmas, Valentine’s Day, etc.—for just $11.95. You can also find gender-neutral ones here.
10. Swaddle Blankets
Give new parents’ arms a rest by giving them the gift of the swaddle. Swaddles help babies feel secure when not in Mom or Dad’s arms by wrapping them up tight. Find colorful patterns online for as little as $10.90.
11. Pregnancy Journal
Moms-to-be have dozens of pregnancy pictures stored on their phones. Give your favorite gal the perfect gift to store those pictures by gifting her a pregnancy journal. lt seems old school — and we love technology — but trust us when we say a mom treasures these printed pics.
12. Nipple Shields
Before a mother gets used to breastfeeding, she may experience some pain and discomfort. Nipple shields provide relief but still allow baby to feed safely and comfortably. Get a set for $13.99 on Amazon. You can also pair the shields with 100 percent natural nipple cream for just $8.92.
13. Memory Box
Give the parents a place to store precious mementos such as baby’s first lock of hair and baby’s first tooth. A memory box is just $14.99 on Amazon.
14. My First Rosary Box
Are the parents-to-be Catholic (or just religious)? For the Catholics, gift the baby a first rosary and a keepsake box. Most religious traditions have their own similar items they hold dear, so think of what will speak to the family and do a fast search. These items make great baby gifts for under $20.
15. Baby Tooth Album
Parents have a tendency to cherish all their little one’s baby teeth. Gift them a tooth album keepsake flap book for just $15.95.
