Simple baby gifts are those that are easy to find in any children's store, practical and likely to be well used. Babies from newborn to age 1 require many necessities, and purchasing items which parents need to provide care and comfort for baby is a thoughtful way to offer a simple, useful gift.
Layette Items
Layette for baby includes clothing and accessory items, such as sleepers, bibs, blankets and burp cloths. These can often be purchased in layette sets. Layette pieces are functional gifts that are easy to find and are available in many styles, colors and fabrics. Additional layette pieces include fabric booties, socks and hats. Consider choosing several layette pieces and creating a gift basket for a well-rounded gift.
Toys
Many toys for babies up to 12 months offer vibrant colors and large patterns for visual and tactile stimulation, and can be found in stores which carry toys for children. Consider plush toys that offer interactive elements, such as rattles, rings or musical components in addition to bright colors. Board books with large pictures and baby-friendly musical CDs are fun gifts, as well. Simple electronic toys such as an age-appropriate musical play phone or keyboard can be inviting for older babies ages six months to one year.
Essentials
Essential baby products make practical, useful gifts. Packages of diapers and baby wipes, bath and body products such as shampoo and lotion, and care items like diaper creams make simple gift choices. For parents concerned about chemicals in commercial baby care products, organic and natural-based products are readily available. Also, stainless steel and BPA-free bottles and sippy-cups are essential gift choices for eco-friendly parents, and are becoming increasingly available in stores.
Baby Gear
Baby gear such as bouncy seats, play mats, strollers and slings are readily available in many different choices, and are items commonly needed and welcomed. Baby gear for meal time, such as plates, bowls and utensils for babies learning to self-feed make good choices, as well. Check the gift registry set by baby's parents, if available, to know what type of baby gear they would most appreciate as a gift. Or, consider giving a gift certificate for the purchase of baby gear, or other products, of the parent's choice.
