If you’re new parents who are putting together a baby registry checklist, I’m so glad you’re here. And if you’re shopping for a mama-to-be, then this unique baby shower gifts list is for you too.
Today let’s chat about non-baby baby registry items and baby shower gifts.
Things that aren’t necessarily baby items, or even “things” at all. Think items that are experiences, household goods, and memory keepers. Gifts that are just for mom and aim to keep her comfortable and happy. These non-baby registry items are going to be things you’re so glad you included on your baby registry, because they are the best baby shower gifts for you.
Yes, baby essentials and typical registry items are important. We need car seats, cribs, swings, and burp cloths. But there are other things that you might not think to register for that you WILL drop money on after baby arrives. Or that will be huge time savers.
So remove the possibility of more spending once the baby arrives. Know that you’ll be comfortable and stressing less. Let your loved ones gift you some of the non-baby and experience-type registry items included on this list.
Disclaimer: We may be compensated through the affiliate links in this post, but all opinions are our own. Read more here.
1. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: An Upgraded Coffee Maker
Still using a hand-me-down Keurig from a family member, or an old conventional coffee maker that hasn’t been cleaned in years? Now’s the perfect chance to up your coffee maker game. Let’s face it; coffee is likely going to become a mainstay in both you AND your partner’s life once baby arrives.
I recommend opting for one that is programmable, has a self-cleaning feature and auto shut-off. I love my Cuisinart Coffee Maker for all of these reasons. As soon as we notice it running slow, we run the self-clean and voila- it’s like it’s new again!
Other Coffee Related Baby Shower Gift Ideas?
2. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: A Really Nice Camera
If you haven’t looked into photography session rates lately, get ready for a pretty big shock. I couldn’t believe the cost of a newborn photography session! And most of the packages only included a handful of digital copies and prints.
This is why I love the idea of including a really nice camera on your baby registry. Cole and Trina did this and were able to take a ton of great DIY newborn photos. They also regularly do family photoshoots on their own because of this amazing gift. Just think of all the money you’ll save down the line!
A Digital SLR Camera is the way to go, and if using a fancy camera intimidates you, consider checking out a course on YouTube that will teach you enough basics to get you started. Pinterest is also full of great DIY photoshoot tips.
3. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Spa Gift Certificates
Be deliberate and include these things on your registry! This is one of the best baby shower gifts for you. If you use MyRegistry.com to set up a free registry, you can sync all of your other registries (i.e., Amazon, Etsy, etc.) into one place. They also allow you to add virtually any item to your registry as long as they have an online store. I’ll take one pedicure, prenatal massage, and haircut please!
If you are the one giving a baby shower gift, this can be such a great addition to a card. It’s really a gift and reminder for the mama to be to slow down and practice some self-care before baby arrives.
4. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Childbirth or Breastfeeding Classes
Register for an Online Childbirth Class
Preparing for birth is not something to take lightly for new parents. One of the best things you can do to decrease anxiety and increase your chance at having the birth you want is taking a childbirth class. Now, in-person childbirth classes certainly have their place, but in today’s busy world, and access to information online, why not add an online childbirth class to your registry or gift list?
Childbirth classes can be expensive but they are such a valuable resource. Your loved ones would be honored to give you this gift, but might not realize it’s possible if you don’t ask!
An online childbirth class allows you to learn childbirth education on your own time. You can do it from the comfort of your own home with your partner. You can also choose a class that is specific to the birth you desire or eases the main apprehensions you are feeling.
What Online Childbirth Class Should I Register For?
- If you are hoping to have a natural birth, the Mama Natural Birth Course or KOPA Prepared Birth Class are two excellent options.
- If you want a childbirth class most similar to an in-hospital birth class that is geared for couples: The Online Prenatal Class for Couples is for you.
- If you want a childbirth class specifically geared for the dad to be, check out: Supporting Her.
Register for an Online Breastfeeding Class
Taking a childbirth class is often considered a “must do” on your third-trimester checklist. It is also one of the best baby shower gifts possible. However, little talk ever goes into what you can do to prepare to breastfeed while you’re pregnant. Well Mamas, an online breastfeeding class is a fabulous way to get a head start on your breastfeeding journey.
If you are looking for a unique baby shower gift, give the gift of breastfeeding education. Help the mother-to-be in your life succeed at breastfeeding.
Some of the Best Online Breastfeeding Classes Are:
- Simply Breastfeeding
- Milkology (at only $19 this is a fabulous add-on gift!)
- Lactation Link
5. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Maternity or Newborn Photography Sessions
I know that above I recommended registering for a nice camera so that you can do your own maternity and newborn shoots. However, if you just aren’t feeling the DIY route, or maybe want some professional photos in addition to your own, ask for photography as a baby shower gift!
Photography sessions can be VERY costly. Yet, the photos you’ll have to enjoy for years to come are so worth it. By adding photography sessions to your registry, your loved ones will be happy to give you this gift.
If you are the one shopping for a unique baby shower gift, check out local photographers in the area. Most will provide gift certificates, or you can pay for a specific package in full. Be sure you understand exactly what the expectant mother will get out of the photo session.
6. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: A Phone or Tablet Holder
A what?! Okay, hear me out on this one. A lazy gooseneck phone or tablet holder that clips in place is actually an amazing gift for a new mom. Any breastfeeding mother will tell you about the countless hours you spend sitting out nursing.
Of course, many of those hours are spent looking lovingly at your newborn’s face. However, an equal amount of those hours are spent scrolling your phone or watching Netflix.
Having a phone or tablet holder will help the mama be more hands-free while watching videos or face timing. It will also make browsing Pinterest easier too. This is truly a unique baby shower gift idea that the new mama will definitely use. I guarantee it gets a laugh at the shower, too.
7. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Take out/Delivery Meal Service
Being home with a newborn as new parents means there is little time to do anything but care for the newborn and sleep. Spending extra time on cooking dinner often falls to the wayside. One amazing non-baby gift idea is a meal delivery service or take-out gift cards.
These are items you can totally add to your baby registry, and your friends and family will absolutely get it. Without adding them, your loved ones may not think about it. By using a FREE MyRegistry.com registry, you can add gifts from any store in the world.
This means you can totally add restaurant gift cards or subscription meal boxes. It also allows you to add cash gift funds. You can say the fund will be spent on take-out.
Looking to give a unique baby shower gift? Look into meal delivery service options.
When choosing a meal delivery service to give as a gift or register for, make sure you pick one that sends ready to eat meals. You don’t want to burden the new family with cooking, cleaning, or ingredients that will potentially spoil. Two that totally fit this bill are Veestro and Freshly.
8. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Freezer Meals
As a gift giver, are you looking to go the DIY route on giving meals to the expecting couple? I really think there is no better gift than a huge stack of ready to eat, homemade freezer meals. I was fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of homemade freezer meals from my sweet friend after my baby was born, and feel forever grateful.
Now, this is my go-to gift for any pregnant friend or family member. I always use Kelly’s Complete Freezer Recipe Bundle to make my meals. If you want to learn more about the process and inspiration about how to get it done, check out this article.
If you are expecting and want to give a little hint, hint that this is what you’d like. Try setting up a meal train or having a friend set one up. This website makes it super easy and guests at your baby shower can sign up to deliver meals on specific days after the baby is born.
9. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: House Cleaning Services
Along the same lines as giving the gift of meals, giving the gift of a clean house will make any new mother ecstatic! You could give a onetime cleaning certificate, or schedule and pay for regular bi-weekly or monthly cleaning for the first six months.
For your registry, you can add this as something for guests to contribute money to that you will spend on a cleaning service. This another reason MyRegistry.com is the ultimate place to register. Create a cash gift fund titled “cleaning service” for guests to contribute to. This is one of the best baby shower gifts a new momma can receive.
If you are the gift giver, create a DIY gift certificate good for a certain amount of cleanings. Just be sure to actually follow through on coming and doing the cleaning that you promise. You might have to push the new mom a bit to make sure you get to do it, but she will be grateful when you do.
10. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Diaper Subscription
Okay, I technically said this was going to be a “non-baby” gift list. But, let’s file this under the “unique” part of the title 😉 Diaper subscriptions are some of the best baby gifts. I don’t think new mothers actually realize just how many diapers they will go through.
Registering for diapers, or better yet, diapers that are sent regularly will be a huge money and time saver for you.
Some to check out:
- Amazon’s Subscribe and Save Option for Diapers
- Honest Company Diaper Subscriptions
- Made Of Diaper Subscriptions
11. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Postpartum Care Supplies
This is definitely a more unique shower gift that is often overlooked. Remember to register for items that will help you postpartum and are some of the best baby gifts as well.
This Is a Chance to Ask for More ‘Luxury’ Postpartum Care Supplies, Such As:
- Motherlove Sitz Bath Spray
- Earth Mama Organic Herbal Sitz Bath Salt
- Birth Song Botanicals Postpartum Healing Herb Bath
- Pre-Made Lavender and Aloe Padsicles
- Fridababy Fridet, The Mom Washer
12. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Breastfeeding Supplies
In addition to postpartum care supplies, you can register for items that will help you succeed at breastfeeding as well. Most baby registry checklists include a nursing pillow, but overlook other breastfeeding essentials. Don’t miss some of the best baby shower gifts possible!
Some of These Are:
- Reusable Nursing Pads
- Organic Nipple Cream
- Nursing Balm
- Nipple Butter
- Nursing Sleep Bra
- Breastfeeding-Friendly Clothing
13. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Bath and Body Products for Mama
You might also want to ask for some personal care products just for you! Things like belly butters designed for pregnancy, and all-natural organic lotions and body washes. Pamper yourself; you deserve it!
14. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Bump Boxes
One of my favorite gifts that I received at my shower wasn’t for my baby at all; it was a Bump Box! It was so fun to receive a box full of goodies just for keeping me comfortable and pampered in my final weeks before birth. I was also fortunate enough to receive a postpartum box! I can’t say enough good things about Bump Boxes.
This is something you can definitely add to your registry! And if you’re are the one looking for a unique gift, a Bump Box is sure to be a hit. These are the best baby and best mom gifts.
15. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Teething Jewelry
This is another gift I received at my own baby shower that was totally unexpected. Teething Jewelry are necklaces designed for your teething or mouthy baby, but actually look cute for you to wear.
I received and loved the Chewbeads brand and have given them as gifts myself! A bonus is that you won’t lose it. I also found these necklaces to be interesting and engaging to play with while breastfeeding my older baby.
16. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Babymoon Fund
Babymoon’s are an excellent time for couples to enjoy one another before the time comes to care for another human being. For first time parents, these trips are a time to reconnect and strengthen their relationship before the chaos ensues. If you shop online, you can find hundreds of deals for flights and resorts.
But keep in mind, babymoon’s do not need to be fancy. They can simply be an out of town weekend or a road trip to another city. If you want some help raising money for this important trip, starting a babymoon fund is the best way to do it!
17. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Easy to Walk in Heels
Asking for some easy to walk in heels, such as block heels or heels with straps are a great way to allow those you love to be involved with your beauty journey per-pregnancy. As a pregnant woman, you may have a desire to feel beautiful on a night on the town, but you can’t wear any of the same outfits.
This extends to more than just clothes; it includes shoes as well. Your feet are probably going to swell at some point in your pregnancy, and that means having nice fitting heels with some room makes all the difference. Another aspect is the height. Taking a fall as a pregnant woman is a big no-no. So having some low, pretty heels can solve your beauty issues!
18. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Every Day Wear Earrings
Another thing that will help a new mom even more than a pregnant mom is having jewelry that can be kept on or put on quickly. When you are handling all the life changes that come along pregnancy and mothering, having a quick and easy way to feel pretty is important.
This a great self-care gift and something sentimental too! Get online and find sites that have durable earrings that can be worn on a daily basis, or even visit jewelry shops and try a few on. Then when you take your pick, pass the message along to your loved ones.
19. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Relaxation Candles
Candles are an inexpensive way to be spoiled by your loved ones. There are so many to choose from, ranging from a variety of prices and scents. Selecting the perfect candle for relaxation is all about finding the scents that give you the calmest feeling. But other genuine factors play a role in this as well. Did you know certain scents promote relaxation more than others? For instance, lavender is a stress-relieving ingredient that helps you wind down.
Another smell that helps you wind down is peppermint. Even ancient cultures used this scent as a stress-reliever, such as the Egyptians and Greeks of old. Other things peppermint can do are elevate your mood, clear your thinking, and lift your spirits. These are all things a new mom or pregnant mother need! Don’t push relaxation candles to the side when it comes to self-care.
20. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Luxury Robe
Are you getting up to pee a hundred times a night, running in and out of the nursery, going into the kitchen for the third time to fill up your cup of coffee… If yes, what do these all have in common? It’s simple, actually. They are all better done in a robe! Robes are used for no other purpose than for luxury.
They come in a variety of materials and colors, but it’s really all about your personal preference. You don’t have to wait to go to the spa or hotel to be pampered, you can be pampered every day at home while wearing your comfy robe as an act of self-care. Keep in mind that robes can get pricey, so do your research and find one in your ideal price range!
21. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Comfy Slippers
Comfy slippers are a much-needed addition to the robe, and they come in so many shapes and sizes. But one of the best qualities is being able to have multi-purpose slippers that you can wear in the house and out of the house. Moccasins are a type that can be worn in public and are so stylish that no one will know how comfortable you are. One of the best things is finding the perfect in house slipper that works for you.
Something like memory foam, which shapes to the body of the foot, or easy to slip on sandal with a thong shape works well. When you are getting up as much as a new mom is, it is natural to want excellent support in the shoe you’re wearing and something cozy and warm for the late night, cold, hardwood floor runs.
22. Unique Baby Shower Gifts: Good Pair of Sneakers
There is nothing better for pregnant moms and new moms than to take a walk every day. Walking has so many benefits. For starters, your overall mood improves as you get your body gently moving. Creativity flows out of you. Weight loss occurs to get rid of the baby weight. Your digestion will improve, as well as the condition of your stool. Walking also helps mental sharpness, where you may currently feel sluggish during and after pregnancy.
Walking daily also relieves stress which may be prevalent in your life with all the changes. Walking can help with postpartum depression in lifting your spirits and giving you a renewed outlook on life. And if you are feeling exhausted, walking will give you that sweet burst of energy to tackle the rest of the day.
All this being said, walking is best done with good fitting and supportive sneakers! Having a good pair of sneakers will get you motivated to get out there and walk every day, whether it be a stroll around the neighborhood one time with your bump or a jog while pushing a stroller with the new baby. It all counts and health and wellness is one of the best ways to show yourself care!
Don’t Forget about Yourself, Mama!
With these 15 ideas, you can rest assured that your own comfort and needs are also taken care of when it comes to baby shower gifts. By registering for these unique, non-baby gifts, you will get a little something just for you.
As a gift-giver, any new mother will be delighted by the ideas on this list! Anything that can make her life easier or more comfortable is sure to be a hit. And the gift of memories, like a photo shoot, will be treasured forever.
Use My Registry! I can’t emphasize this enough. It’s FREE! By using this site, you can sync registries you might have at any other stores or sites. It also lets you add cash gift funds and individual items from any store in the world. I used it for Baby N and loved how easy it was to manage. Don’t miss out! These may not be the best baby gifts, but they are the best for you to be the best momma!
Have another non-baby or unique baby shower gift to add to the list? Comment below!
Thanks for reading! If you found this article helpful, please share it on Pinterest or Facebook.
Sophie says
Thanks for sharing such a wonderful post,, these are some really cool ideas , thanks for sharing…I am hosting a baby shower on next Saturday for my sister in law and i’m very confused on what to give her as a gift thanks for helping me.., you saved so much of my time. 🙂