Despite family support and useful advice from friends, books, and magazines many new parents still don’t know what items they need to take care of a newborn baby, even up to the due date! They are uncertain about what accessories they need and are overwhelmed by the many choices and prices. What once was a simple baby carriage in their minds has now turned into a sophisticated apparatus that can rock and rotate. Some can even be transformed into other functional transportation devices for the car and road.

First-time expecting parents can use all the assistance they can get and your thoughtful gifts can truly make a difference. If you want to help consider the following gift ideas:

Clothing

Many new parents underestimate the amount of clothing they need for a newborn. Layette sets are a super idea, because they contain stylish, coordinated jumpsuits, bodysuits, jackets, sleepers, pants and tees, bibs, socks and anything else required to dress up a little boy or girl. Colors and styles can be picked according to the preference of the parents and the sex of the baby. If the gender is unknown and you want to shop for bargains, stay with neutral colors and themes. When buying clothing take sizes and seasons into account. Babies grow fast and your snowsuit may be too small by the time winter sets in.

Toiletries

Brush, comb, wipes, cleanser and baby shampoo, skin care lotion, talcum powder, petroleum jelly, and cloth or disposable diapers are usually on top of the newborn shopping list. A changing mat and hooded towel may come in handy, and it may also be quite beneficial to have a baby bathtub for safety and convenience. Do not hesitate to surprise expecting parents with any of these items if you know they are missing from the parent’s baby check list.

Baby room

The baby needs a lot of sleep and in the first months a basket or crib will do as long as there is an ample amount of bedding supplies. Accidents happen and sheets or blankets may need to be changed frequently. Musical mobiles are soothing and will help put the baby to sleep. While the parents also take a break, a baby monitor will keep them alert to their baby’s activities. A changing table would be nice to have, but any flat and stable surface will do just fine to change a newborn.

Other essentials

Starting a family is an involved and often expensive process. Fortunately, family, friends, neighbors and co-workers can make life a little easier with their thoughtful gifts. These offerings may include:

• Quality, adjustable slings. They will last and can be re-used

• Bouncy chair and swing

• Car seat

• Baby carriage

• Changing or diaper bag

• Bath thermometer

• Nail scissors

• Nappy wrapper

• Soothing music CDs

• Stimulating toys, such as hand, wrist or booties rattles, and soothers.

Finding the perfect newborn gift is easy in the real world or online. The stores and websites are full of cool gift items, ranging from simply affordable to exquisite. Believe it, with all those choices at hand, you are bound to find something that will please you, as well as the new or expecting parents.