People often ask us what to get their friends who have just had babies. After much thought, and consultation with our network of yummy new mommies, we’ve gathered our recommendations for the best newborn gifts. These happen to be ideal Christmas presents, so we hope we’ve made it on time to help make your shopping a little bit easier.
1. Aden and anais muslin swaddles– These are the ultimate multi-tasker and their great designs make them a stylish new mummy must have. We use them to wipe, wrap, line, swaddle, and cover. They make an ideal shade/cover for the pram when the baby is asleep, a great pram liner for those hot summer days (its breathable and helps regulate body heat in extreme heat), not to mention the fact that they are the best swaddle for hot summer nights. Your friends will thank you again and again as they will use them all the time. We never leave the house without ours!
2. Babasling – This was given to one of us as a present, and it saved our life during the first couple of months when the baby wants to be attached to mummy permanently! We still use it when travelling to pass through security (because it doesn’t beep when going through the machine so you can keep your baby on you if they are asleep). It is also ideal to hold the baby close during the flight (hands free!), meaning they are more likely to sleep the entire way. There are many slings on the market, but we have found that this one works the best because the baby can be horizontal (meaning you can sit on the sofa without disrupting their sleep, among other things). It also washes brilliantly, and is extremely discrete for breastfeeding, so you do not need to buy a “hooter cover”. Be brave and go for a bold colour; maybe turquoise?
3. Baby blankets from the White Company – An affordable and extremely practical present. We have tried many cellular baby blankets and this is by far the best quality one. Comes in pink, blue and white with a satin finish which is soft against the baby’s skin. We also love the White Company’s boxes, which you can later use in the nursery to store outgrown baby clothes in a beautiful, tasteful fashion.
4. Trumpette socks – These are so cute. They come as mary janes or ballet shoes for girls and as little trainers for boys. Most first time mummies have seen them around but do not know what they are called or where to get them so they make a good gift. The fact that they stay on the baby’s feet is what makes them so special! What’s more, you can never have too many Trumpette socks.
5. Sleepsuits – A staple for any newborn, and trust us, one can never have too many. We love the striped ones from Jojo Maman Bebe (they have a great little insert to go over the baby’s tiny hands to prevent scratches in those early weeks). Our mummy friends are also crazy for the softness of the Kissy Kissy range.
6. Logan the lion by Lamaze – One of the first toys one of our babies ever noticed and continues to love. It makes a sweet purrrring sound when it moves which captivates babies. We have noticed that people are reluctant to buy toys for newborns and usually opt for clothes or accessories. We ourselves were unprepared and did not have any toys in readiness for our babies to play, so this makes a good present that new parents can have ‘in stock’ for when the right time comes.
7. Baby shoes from Jacadi – To add a touch of luxury….the Jacadi baby shoes come in many different designs and are made of very soft leather – just perfect for those tiny little feet! We always opt for a couple of sizes bigger so that the baby can wear them at around three months. The Jacadi packaging makes all the difference…
8. Sleeping Bags from JoJo Maman Bebe – Here at moomboo corner we are passionate about safe sleeping. These sleeping bags make a lovely present as an alternative to swaddling or as a follow-on to swaddling. We love all the cute designs!
9. Moomboo Combining sleeping, playing and changing facilities in a portable pod, the moomboo means that parents do not need to buy a changing mat, play gym or travel cot. Buy one for your next baby shower, just in time to save new parents from buying superflous baby paraphernalia. (To get on the wait list, email contactmoomboo@gmail.com. We aim to make moomboo available early next year. To keep up with the latest developments follow us on twitter and facebook).
What do you think of our list? Please share with us your ideas for new baby presents or your views on any of the products we have featured. We look forward to including your recommendations in our next post!
Moomboo Corner 