12 Thoughtful Gifts That New Parents Actually Want To Receive

Aside from lots (and lots) of coffee, new parents need stuff. While the best gifts of this holiday season offer a little something for everyone on your list, when it comes to shopping for folks who just had a baby, receiving practical staples (think: diaper bags, carriers, and so forth) on Christmas morning can be ideal, as it helps make caring for their little one a lot easier—and less stressful.

To help you find the perfect present for the first-time mom or dad in your life, we’ve rounded up 12 of our favorite gifts for new parents, from sentimental keepsakes to popular accessories and more. The best part of all? Each gift costs $100 or less, so you won't blow your entire holiday budget but can still impress with a thoughtful item that'll make your loved one's transition to being on full-time baby duty so much easier.

1. Ruvalino Diaper Bag Backpack; $40

With 21,000-plus reviews, this Ruvalino diaper bag backpack is a fan favorite on Amazon—and for good reason. Made from waterproof fabric, the backpack comes in seven different hues and was designed with durability in mind. Other features include padded shoulder straps, mesh organizers, and insulated pockets (the latter of which is ideal for storing food and drinks). The wallet-friendly price tag is an added bonus.

Buy it: Amazon

2. Artifact Uprising Baby Book; $99

Any parent will appreciate this sweet keepsake from Artifact Uprising. The brand’s popular baby book serves as an interactive photo journal for parents to document important milestones from their little one’s first year of life. It even offers prompts to help draw more thoughtful details out from both parents, and is available in seven colors.

Buy it: Artifact Uprising

3. Boon Drying Rack Lawn Countertop; From $28

This Boon drying rack has racked up (pun-intended, of course) a near-perfect average rating of 4.9 stars thanks to its fun design and sturdy construction. Plus, it’s just as adorable as it is functional thanks to its removable water tray (included with each purchase), which helps prevent spillage.

Buy it: Amazon

4. Serene Evolution Portable Baby White Noise Machine; $19

This Serene Evolution sound machine is especially convenient due to its compact size. Users can choose from 18 sounds total (think: white noise, ocean waves, and rain), and opt to leave it on all night long, or set a timer (this device offers 30-, 60-, or 120-minute intervals). It comes with a stroller strap, so new parents can take it with them on trips out with kids. The 75-hour battery life is also a perk, especially for parents who are on-the-go but want a device that will help keep their little ones snoozing.

Buy it: Amazon

5. HelloFresh Weekly Meal Kit; From $67

Getting nutritious meals delivered right to one's doorstep can be appealing to lots of folks. Yet, for those who just welcomed a baby, meal delivery kits can be especially wonderful because it means there's one less thing to worry about—especially in those first few weeks when they're still adjusting to having a newborn. HelloFresh is one of the biggest meal subscription services available right now, and each meal includes pre-measured ingredients (read: no grocery store required) and easy-to-follow recipes.

Buy it: HelloFresh

6. Moby Evolution Baby Carrier; $50

Available in three colors, the Moby Evolution baby carrier is made from a soft, supportive blend of cotton and stretchy viscose, making it the ideal accessory for busy new parents. The crossover construction helps to evenly distribute weight, while the ergonomic design provides comfort for both parent and baby.

Buy it: Nordstrom

7. Baby Basics Kit by FridaBaby; $40

This Baby Basics Kit by FridaBaby has everything a parent needs to manage everyday hygiene for little ones. It includes the brand’s beloved Snotsucker (for eliminating boogers), SnipperClipper (for nail trimming), SkinSoother (for soft skin), and GasPasser (for gas relief). A zippered carrying case is also included.

Buy it: Amazon

8. Baby and Sunshine Monthly Subscription Box; $48

Baby and Sunshine subscription boxes feature a curated selection of essentials for babies and their parents. From loungewear to onesies, these ultra-comfy staples are sure to brighten up any new parent’s day—or (sleepless) night.

Buy it: Cratejoy

9. Parachute Baby Bath Bundle; $42

This plush baby bath bundle from Parachute includes two washcloths and one hooded towel, each made from super-soft and absorbent Turkish cotton. It’s cozy and gentle on skin—a win-win—and available in four neutral shades.

Buy it: Parachute

10. Baby Mushroom Handprint & Footprint Keepsake Photo Frame Kit; $21

New parents will love this Baby Mushroom hand print and footprint keepsake photo frame kit. Each package includes clay, a roller, and a stencil kit for personalization. What’s more, this one-of-a-kind keepsake is designed to be displayed and even comes with a stand and wall brackets.

Buy it: Amazon

11. Uhinoos Nursing Cover; $10

For just under $10, Uhinoos’s nursing cover is a budget-friendly—but also incredibly meaningful—gift for new moms who plan to breastfeed and will appreciate privacy while on the go. Available in three patterns, its lightweight cotton material adds breathability, while the adjustable neck strap ensures a custom fit.

Buy it: Amazon

12. SwaddleMe Original Swaddle (3-Pack); $35

These SwaddleMe Swaddles are especially great for newborns thanks to their small size. Each swaddle is constructed with 100 percent machine-washable cotton for optimal comfort and convenience. The swaddles come in packs of three and are available in 12 colored and patterned varieties.

Buy it: Amazon

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