Somewhere around week eight, the newborn fog lifts just enough that you look around and think: we have to leave this apartment. I remember standing in my kitchen with my first son, diaper bag half-packed, genuinely unsure if a walk around the block "counted" as an outing. (It does.)

Here's the thing I wish someone had told me with my first newborn: your baby doesn't care about the Pinterest-perfect sensory bin. They care about your face, your voice, and something new to look at. So do stuff for your own sanity and let the baby tag along (they're usually too busy taking in the whole world to notice you're catching up with a friend over coffee). The world is the sensory toy. Don't sweat the rest.

Spring

Spring is the easy one. The weather forgives you.

• Stroller walks, no destination required. Budding trees and birds are enough. I used to time these around nap windows so I'd get a walk and a nap out of the deal.
• Library baby story time. Free, indoors if it rains, and it's the first place I actually met other parents who weren't just from my prenatal class. Check your library's website for the infant session — most cities run one.
• Farmers markets. Colors, smells, gentle noise — a baby in a carrier is basically a captive audience for market chaos, and they love it.
• Botanical gardens. Many have free or pay-what-you-can days. Worth a quick check before you go.
• Puddle-jumping, once they're upright. Rain boots, one puddle, twenty minutes of pure delight. Bring a spare outfit.
• Duck ponds. Skip the bread (not great for the ducks) and just watch. My oldest could sit and stare at ducks for genuinely twenty minutes, which as any parent knows is an eternity of free entertainment. Pigeons are also a wealth of entertainment to the point where I kept a bag of birdseed in my car.
• Cherry blossom spotting. If your city has a park known for spring blooms, it's basically a free photo shoot and a nice walk in one. Check local park department pages for bloom updates.
• Community egg hunts. A lot of towns run free ones around Easter, even for babies too young to hunt. You just carry them around while older kids do the work.
• Playground bench time. Even a six-month-old who can't play yet loves watching older kids run around. Bring a blanket, sit on the grass, let them people-watch.

Summer

Longer days, more options, more sunscreen.

• Splash pads. Free, at most public parks, and the fastest way to entertain a baby for an hour without spending a cent. Go early to dodge peak heat and crowds.
• Shaded park time. A blanket, a tree, a couple of toys. That's the whole activity, and it's enough.
• Free outdoor concerts or movie nights. Check your city's summer events calendar. Babies sleep through more noise than you'd think (obviously AC/DC concerts might be a bit much – I still have hearing damage from the "Those About to Rock tour) .
• Zoo or aquarium free days. Most bigger institutions run a handful of free-admission days a year. Worth bookmarking their calendar.
• Backyard sprinkler. Costs nothing if you already own a hose. Low effort, high payoff.
• Beach or lake edge. You don't need a whole beach day. Even twenty minutes at the water's edge with bare feet in the sand is enough to count as an outing, and toddlers in particular go feral for it in the best way.
• Mommy-and-me classes in the park. Free outdoor yoga or fitness meetups pop up in most cities all summer — search your local parks department or community Facebook group. Half the value is the adult conversation, honestly.
• Evening porch time. Once it cools off, sitting outside with a baby at dusk is criminally underrated. Fireflies, if you're lucky, are basically free magic.
• County or town fair. Many have free admission or free days for young kids. You're not there for the rides, you're there for the noise, the lights, and the change of scenery.

Fall

Crisp air, no extremes. A crowd favorite for a reason.

• Apple orchards and pumpkin patches. Many only charge for what you pick, and even wandering around is often free.
• Leaf walks. Genuinely underrated. Crunching leaves is a full sensory experience for a baby, and it costs you nothing but time.
• Community harvest festivals. Usually free to attend, and a good excuse to get everyone dressed and out the door.
• Nature centers. Often free or by donation, and the trails are almost always stroller-friendly.
• Trunk-or-treats. Free, low-key, and a solid way to try out a baby's first Halloween costume without committing to actual trick-or-treating. My youngest was a pumpkin exactly once before he decided costumes were an act of war.
• Corn mazes. A lot of farms let babies and toddlers in free since they're not exactly navigating it themselves. Worth calling ahead to check the policy.
• Fall thrift shopping. Not glamorous, but hunting for a warm coat or a cheap sweater is an actual outing, and it doubles as a task you needed to do anyway.
• Tailgates or community game days. If your neighborhood has a local football culture, even watching from a stroller on the edge of the action gives a baby new sounds and faces without you spending a dime.

Winter

This one takes more intention, but you can still get out without spending much — and you should, because the winter isolation is real and nobody warns you about that part either.

• Library programs. Story time doesn't stop for cold weather. Warm, free, and a built-in reason to get dressed.
• Mall walking. Not glamorous, but climate-controlled and stroller-friendly, and most have a play area if your baby's mobile.
• Museum free evenings. Science centers and children's museums often run free or pay-what-you-wish nights – worth checking before you assume it's out of budget.
• Window-watching snow. On the days it's genuinely too cold to go out, sit your baby by a window. A change of scenery doesn't always mean leaving the house.
• Baby-and-me groups at your local community center. Usually low-cost, and honestly more for you than the baby. Winter with a newborn is isolating, and a weekly group gives you something to look forward to.
• Holiday light drives or walks. Free, cozy, and a baby in a carrier bundled up to watch lights is peak winter contentment. Bring hot chocolate for yourself.
• Holiday markets. Usually free to wander, and the lights and music make for great sensory overload in a good way.
• Ten minutes of snow. You don't need a whole outing. Just bundle them up (an event in itself), let them feel snow on a mitten, and call it a day. Short and sweet beats a full production every time.
• Indoor play cafes. Not free, but usually cheap for a drop-in visit, and worth it on the days you need adult coffee and a warm room more than the baby needs the toys.

A Few Things That Work in Any Season

• Just drive around. A car ride can be a full activity when everyone needs a change of scenery (and sometimes a nap).
• Visit a friend or relative. New sights, new voices, new smells — free and often the easiest outing of all.
• Grocery store trips. Bright lights, colors, and gentle bustle make for surprisingly good baby entertainment.
• Walk a new route instead of the usual one. Novelty matters more than distance.

FAQs

How young is too young to take a baby out?
Once your pediatrician clears you (usually after the first couple of weeks, sooner for a quick walk), fresh air is fine. Skip crowded indoor spaces until after the first round of vaccines if you're being cautious, but a walk outside is safe almost from day one.

What do I need to bring?
Diapers, a change of clothes, and a way to feed them. Everything else is optional. I over-packed for the first six months with my oldest and under-packed for the rest of my son's babyhood, and both worked out fine.

My baby just cries the whole outing. Is it worth it?
Some days, no, and that's okay. But a lot of "outing meltdowns" are really overtiredness. Try timing your outing right before or during a nap window instead of right after they wake up.

Takeaway

You don't need elaborate plans or expensive gear to give your baby a rich, stimulating world. Fresh air, new faces, and a change of scenery go a long way for both of you. Some days the "outing" will be a walk around the block, and that's enough.

If you found this list helpful, bookmark it and come back each season. Babies change fast, and what feels like a big outing at three months will feel easy by nine.

Let me know your ideas in the comments so I can add them to the list!

Also check out: 70+ Toddler Activities to Beat Boredom (No Screens Required) and Please Tell Me What to Do With My Newborn All Day

Baby showers feel like a modern American invention: pastel balloons, diaper cakes, a mom-to-be in a decorated chair, perhaps an aunt who's had one too many mimosas, but the impulse behind them is thousands of years old. What we think of as "the baby shower" only really took shape after WWII, and before that, cultures from ancient Egypt to India had their own very different ways of marking pregnancy.

I've been covering pregnancy and new parenthood for over 15 years, and I've watched baby showers shift even in that relatively short window — fewer diaper cakes, more sip-and-sees, way more Pinterest boards. Digging into where this tradition actually came from made me appreciate how much of it is genuinely new, and how much of it we've quietly borrowed from centuries-old rituals without realizing it.

Ancient rituals: protection, purification, and prayer

Long before anyone said "baby shower," ancient societies had elaborate customs around childbirth though most of them look nothing like a modern gift-and-games party.

• Ancient Egypt held celebrations after birth, not before. Childbirth was thought to bring impurity, so mother and baby were often separated from the community for a period of purification, sometimes involving visits to local temples. Feels harsh, but okay.
• Ancient Greece also waited until after delivery. A shout announced the birth, and a formal welcoming ceremony followed five to seven days later. I like this one better, plus the food would be great.
• Ancient India is where this starts to look familiar. A ritual called Simantha, held in the sixth or eighth month of pregnancy, showered the mother with sweets, dried fruit, and baby items, along with prayers for a safe delivery. Music was played for the baby to "hear" in the womb which, if you've ever seen a newborn calm down to a song from your own pregnancy, doesn't feel like a stretch at all.
• Ancient Rome gave symbolic gifts to new mothers after birth, meant to bring good fortune to mother and child.

Medieval Europe: a more solemn affair

The party mood didn't survive the Middle Ages. Given how dangerous childbirth genuinely was, medieval Europe treated pregnancy as a serious, even somber, occasion. Priests visited expectant mothers so they could confess their sins before labor. This wasn't about celebration it was about facing real risk with as much spiritual preparation as possible.

The Victorian era: tea, advice, and modesty

By the 1800s, the tone shifted again. Victorian gatherings for expectant mothers were genteel affairs like tea parties hosted by female friends and family, with small gifts exchanged but the real focus on passing down advice from mothers and grandmothers to the next generation. Welcome or not, that advice flowed freely (some things never change).

The phrase "baby shower" still didn't exist yet. But the Victorians built the template the 20th century would run with: a women-only gathering built around the transition into motherhood.

Post-war America: the birth of the modern baby shower

The baby shower most of us picture today came together in the United States after World War II, and it wasn't a coincidence because three things lined up at once:

• The baby boom. Record numbers of young couples were starting families and buying homes at the same time.
• A hunger to celebrate. After years of wartime hardship, people wanted an excuse to mark good news properly.
• A booming consumer economy. More disposable income and more baby products on the market meant more to give as gifts.

This is also the era of the Tupperware party. Starting in the mid-1950s, women gathered in a hostess's living room for product demonstrations that were part sales pitch, part social event — dressed up, connected, and quietly participating in the economy from inside the home. Baby showers picked up that same DNA: practical, gift-focused, hosted at home, organized by and for women.

Gifts were resolutely practical during this period like diapers, blankets, bottles. The baby registry grew directly out of this instinct, so no one ended up with twelve blankets and zero bottles (a problem I can confirm still happens without one).

Late 20th century: bigger, more elaborate, more personal

Showers kept growing from here. Guest lists expanded past close family to include coworkers and looser acquaintances, which is part of why some moms ended up with two separate showers (one intimate, one bigger) so they could actually enjoy time with each group instead of making small talk with 40 people at once. Games, themed decor, and dedicated shower cakes became standard, and the whole event started to look a lot more like a birthday party for a guest who hadn't shown up yet.

The social media era: themes, reveals, and reinvention

The last 15 years reshaped baby showers again, mostly thanks to Pinterest, Instagram, and now TikTok. Showers became more visually designed, more themed, more photographed.

This era also produced something entirely new: the gender reveal party. It traces back to a single 2008 blog post by LA blogger Jenna Karvunidis, who cut into a cake with pink filling to announce she was expecting a girl, after several previous pregnancy losses. It spread through parenting blogs, then exploded on YouTube and Pinterest through the 2010s — evolving from a simple cake into elaborate productions with smoke, fireworks, and confetti cannons, sometimes with real consequences, including wildfires and fatal accidents. Karvunidis has since said she regrets popularizing it, noting that putting so much weight on a baby's sex misses everything else that actually makes them who they are.

A few other shifts worth knowing about if you're planning one now:

• Co-ed showers are common now, breaking from the women-only tradition.
• Diaper parties and "dadchelor parties" give dads-to-be their own version of the event.
• Sprinkles are smaller showers thrown for a second or third baby, without duplicating an entire registry.
• Sip and sees happen after the birth, so guests meet the baby and gift-giving is optional or low-key.
• Virtual baby showers took off during COVID and are still useful for long-distance family.
• Gender-neutral showers reflect a move away from strict pink-and-blue decor toward something more personal.

What this history actually tells us

Strip away the decor, the games, and the changing technology, and the same thing connects a Simantha ceremony in ancient India to a Pinterest-perfect shower today: people gathering to support a woman stepping into motherhood, with practical help, shared wisdom, and a shared sense that this new life matters. The format keeps changing — sometimes solemn, sometimes over-the-top, sometimes controversial — but I feel like the underlying instinct hasn't moved.

If you're planning one now, you're not obligated to follow any of this history, but it's a nice reminder that however you throw it (or skip it), you're part of something a lot older than Pinterest.

Related reading: What Is a Baby Sprinkle? A Complete Guide to Planning One

If you've narrowed it down to Bobbie Organic Whole Milk and Kendamil Organic, you're comparing two of the closest things to breast milk you can buy off a shelf – both are organic, whole-milk-based, and built around the same 60:40 whey-to-casein ratio found in mature breast milk. The real differences come down to how much of the formula is whole milk, whether prebiotics are added, and price.

Quick answer: If third-party contaminant testing and US manufacturing matter most to you, Bobbie Organic Whole Milk is the stronger pick. If you want added prebiotics and a slightly lower price per ounce, Kendamil Organic is the better fit. Neither is "healthier" in any meaningful sense – they're just built differently.

Below is the full breakdown to help you figure out which one is right for you.

Table of Contents

• Quick Comparison Table
• Milk Base: The Core Difference
• Ingredients and Nutrition
• Digestion: What the Ingredients Suggest
• Taste and Texture
• Certifications and Manufacturing
• Price Comparison
• Where to Buy
• How to Actually Switch Formulas
• FAQs
• Bottom Line

Quick Comparison Table

Bobbie Organic Whole Milk compared to Kendamil Organic

Prices and formulations change periodically, so double-check current pricing on Target.com or the brand's site before you buy.

Milk Base: The Core Difference

Both formulas lean on whole milk rather than the nonfat/skim base older-style formulas use, which means more naturally occurring milk fat and less reliance on added vegetable oils. The distinction between them is how much of that milk is actually whole: Bobbie uses 100% organic grass-fed whole milk, while Kendamil Organic blends whole milk with some skim milk. In practice, that gives Bobbie a slightly higher proportion of naturally occurring milk fat, including MFGM (milk fat globule membrane), a component also found in breast milk and linked to brain development support.

Sourcing differs too. Bobbie's whole milk comes from grass-fed cows, including New Zealand sourcing, with its lactose and whey sourced from organic family farms in the US. Kendamil Organic's milk comes from grass-fed family farms across the UK.

Ingredients and Nutrition

Both formulas use organic lactose as the sole carbohydrate, both use plant-based DHA sourced from algae rather than fish oil (so neither has a fishy smell or carries mercury exposure risk), and both skip palm oil, corn syrup, and maltodextrin entirely.

Kendamil Organic contains GOS (galacto-oligosaccharides), a prebiotic fiber intended to support gut bacteria and digestion.

Bobbie doesn't add prebiotics to any of its formulas. Instead, it points to two things: the naturally occurring MFGM from its whole milk base, and the fact that its formula is 100% lactose, which it markets as having some natural prebiotic-like properties, though that works through a different mechanism than added GOS. Babies who might need an additional gut health boost can add their Organic Probiotic Drops. 

DHA levels are slightly different too: Bobbie sits at 20mg/100kcal (which meets EU minimums), while Kendamil Organic runs higher at 24mg/100kcal.

Digestion: What the Ingredients Suggest

Neither brand has published head-to-head digestion studies against the other, so this is ingredient-based reasoning rather than a guarantee. Every baby's gut responds differently, and persistent reflux or distress is worth raising with your pediatrician rather than solving through label-reading alone.

Both formulas' whole-milk bases are designed to be gentler than older nonfat-and-added-oil formulas, with naturally occurring fats some parents find easier to digest and that may support softer stools. Kendamil's added GOS is specifically marketed for gut health support; Bobbie's MFGM is marketed primarily for brain development, with digestive ease attributed more broadly to its whole-milk, lower-added-oil composition. 

In practice, this means there's no clear ingredient-based winner on digestion between these two. It's genuinely a trial-and-observe situation.

Taste and Texture

Both are whole-milk-based, so expect a richer, creamier texture from either than you'd get from a nonfat formula, which is closer to what many parents describe as a "real milk" taste. Because neither uses fish oil, neither should have the faint fishy taste or smell some formula brands carry. Beyond that, taste preference comes down to the baby; there's no reliable way to predict which one a given baby will prefer before trying it.

Certifications and Manufacturing

Manufacturing location and testing philosophy are really where these two diverge.

Bobbie's US-based production and third-party testing (Clean Label Project, Light Labs, the botulism screening) appeal to parents who want an outside lab verifying every claim.

Kendamil's UK manufacturing is backed by 60+ years of production experience and, by its own account, no major safety recalls to date – including through the 2022 shortage, when it kept shipping steadily enough to enter the US market and help fill gaps for American families.

If you weigh third-party verification heavily, that favors Bobbie; if you weigh a long, uninterrupted production track record and in-house testing at scale, that favors Kendamil.

Price Comparison

Pricing varies by retailer and whether you're buying via subscription, so treat these as ballpark figures:

• Bobbie Organic Whole Milk: roughly $1.78/oz on subscription (around $25.20/can subscription, from $28.99/can retail)
• Kendamil Organic: roughly $1.42/oz at Target

Kendamil's larger can (28.2oz vs. Bobbie's 14.1oz) is a big part of why it lands cheaper per ounce. At around 24oz/day of exclusive formula feeding, that price gap can add up to roughly $80–100+ a month, which is worth weighing against the certification and sourcing differences above.

Where to Buy

Bobbie Organic Whole Milk is sold at Target, Whole Foods, and through Bobbie's own subscription service (hibobbie.com), which also includes perks like free sessions with lactation and feeding experts for subscribers. Kendamil Organic is sold at Target, Walmart, and Amazon, and through various formula subscription retailers online.

How to Switch Formulas

If you're moving from one to the other (or from breast milk to either) the general approach most pediatricians recommend is a gradual transition: start around 25% new formula mixed with 75% of the current one, then shift the ratio over several days while watching for changes in stool, fussiness, or spit-up. Mixing the two formulas together in the same bottle isn't recommended, since each is formulated to be nutritionally complete on its own; if you want to compare them, alternate by bottle instead.

FAQs

Is Bobbie or Kendamil Organic easier to digest? Neither has published comparative digestion data. Both use whole-milk bases designed to be gentler than older nonfat formulas; Kendamil adds GOS prebiotics specifically for gut support, while Bobbie relies on its 100% whole-milk composition and naturally occurring MFGM. This comes down to trial and observation with your own baby.

Does Kendamil Organic or Bobbie Organic Whole Milk taste more like breast milk? Both are whole-milk-based and tend toward a richer, creamier taste than nonfat formulas. There's no meaningful taste difference reported between the two beyond ordinary can-to-can or baby-to-baby variation.

Can I switch between Bobbie Organic Whole Milk and Kendamil Organic? Yes, with a gradual transition and pediatrician guidance (see the switching section above). Avoid mixing them in the same bottle.

Are both FDA compliant? Yes. Bobbie is manufactured in the US under FDA regulation. Kendamil Organic is FDA-listed for the US market, separate from Kendamil's UK-only product lines.

Bottom Line

Bobbie Organic Whole Milk and Kendamil Organic are both well-formulated, organic, whole-milk-based options with the same protein ratio as breast milk and none of the ingredients most parents are trying to avoid. The decision mostly comes down to whether third-party contaminant testing and US manufacturing (Bobbie) matter more to you than added prebiotics and a lower price per ounce (Kendamil). Whichever you choose, give it a real trial window before ruling it out, and loop in your pediatrician if anything seems off.

Find out more at hibobbie.com and us.kendamil.com

Have questions about formula feeding or your own experience to share? Drop a comment below.

Next read: How to Switch Baby Formula: Creating a Smooth Transition

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through my links I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Pregnant Chicken — it keeps the lights on and supports our free content. Updated July 2026.

Being pregnant in summer is like wearing a fur coat in a sauna while balancing a bowling ball on your bladder. I did my third trimester with a 9+ lb baby born in late June, so I'm basically a credentialed summer pregnancy survivor. (Anyone reading this in Arizona in August just laughed, and I respect that.)

Here's what helped and what you can skip.

The Gear That Will Save Your Sweaty Pregnant Self

A better-than-average sunscreen. Pregnant skin can have some very weird reactions with the sun so try not to skip out on the sunscreen. Children do a great job of haggaring us so don't have the sun add to it.

A decent bug spray. Mosquitoes treat pregnant women like all-you-can-eat buffets — and they're not wrong, since you're running warmer and exhaling more carbon dioxide than usual. DEET is actually considered safe during pregnancy and is recommended by the CDC and ACOG, but some providers suggest being cautious with it in the first trimester specifically. Here's a full post on insect repellent if you want more details.

A handheld fan. Get one of those mini fans or one that also sprays water and carry it EVERYWHERE. People will understand. You can also spritz strangers who try to touch your belly like a cat eating a house plant.

A sun hat. Doubles as UV protection and a "please don't talk to me" signal when pulled low enough.

Comfortable sandals. Your feet will expand, swell, and generally revolt against normal shoes. I loved my slides because I didn't have to bend down to put them on or off.

An industrial-sized water bottle. The kind that keeps water cold for hours because lukewarm water is just...no. You'll need it for pregnancy AND breastfeeding later, so consider it an investment.

A cooling pillow. For when you transform into a human furnace at 2am. Momcozy also makes a maternity pillow with a cooling cover.

A maternity swimsuit. One that makes you feel like a majestic pregnant mermaid, not a beached whale. They exist, I promise.

Hair ties and headbands. Pregnancy hair grows at Rapunzel speed. Tragically, it doesn't last.

The Only Summer Maternity Wardrobe You Actually Need

Skip the 27-piece "essential" maternity wardrobe roundups. Here's what I actually wore:

• Flowy dresses — basically fancy nightgowns you can wear in public. Bonus if they'll work for nursing later.
• Maternity shorts — at least one pair of jean shorts that don't look like a denim diaper, plus some stretchy yoga shorts for at home.
• Tank tops — stock up. You'll live in them.
• Biker shorts — worn under dresses so your thighs don't start a friction fire.

That's it. Four things.

The Pool Is Your New Best Friend

Swimming while pregnant is basically the only time you'll feel weightless. A few quick answers:

Is swimming safe? Yes, unless your doctor has told you otherwise. It's actually one of the best pregnancy exercises going. It's low impact, easy on your joints, and genuinely good for you. Just don't decide to train for the Olympics.

Is chlorine safe? In a well-maintained pool, yes. Research actually found that women who swam in early and mid-pregnancy had a slightly lower risk of preterm birth compared to non-exercisers.

Heat + Pregnancy = Actual Risk

Your body is already working overtime, so extreme heat is genuinely something to take seriously. You don't want your core body temperature going above 102°F, and pregnancy makes it harder to regulate temperature than usual. Some ways to avoid turning into human toast:

• Hydrate constantly — yes, it means more trips to the bathroom. Sorry.
• Become a shade enthusiast — scout the shadiest routes everywhere you go.
• Stay indoors during peak hours — that window between 10am and 4pm is when the sun is most aggressive. If you can avoid it, do.
• Embrace all forms of air conditioning — car, home, ceiling fans, handheld fans. All of them.
• Treat yourself to cold things — popsicles, smoothies, ice cream. It's medicinal and I will not hear otherwise.
• Be naked at home — draw the curtains and free the bump. You've earned it.

Fun Things to Do When You're Hot and Huge

Because you can't sit in front of the AC for nine months (though tempting):

• Early morning walks before the sun turns evil
• Evening strolls with your partner — great time to argue about baby names
• Movies (dark, cold, snacks, bathrooms nearby — pregnant paradise)
• Pool time
• Mini golf (shaded and you can still see your feet)
• A babymoon if you can swing it
• Night drives with the windows down and a milkshake in hand
• All the naps. Then one more.

Summer pregnancy is temporary. And somehow – weirdly, inexplicably – you will one day find yourself nostalgic for the days when your biggest problem was being sweaty and enormous. I know. I didn't believe it either.

Up next: Bug Spray and Pregnancy: What's Safe to Use

When I worked in an office, my coworker Maria was one of the nicest people on the planet – the kind of person everyone in the office genuinely loved – so when I organized her baby shower, the usual $5 chip-in turned into $10, $20, and one guy handed me $50 cash without blinking. Before I knew it, I had $800 in an envelope and a big problem: her giant family had already swept through her registry and bought all the big stuff.

I had no kids of my own at the time and genuinely no idea what babies and new parents actually need. Someone suggested a sterling silver rattle and a cashmere baby outfit, and even in my clueless, child-free state I knew that wasn't right. "I think babies poop up their back a lot," I said, and that was the end of that suggestion. I spiraled into a full first-world-problem panic and ended up buying the leftover small items off her registry and a gift card. It was fine. It was okay. But it felt kind of sad given how much everyone had chipped in.

After nearly two decades of writing about pregnancy and new parenthood (and two kids of my own), I finally know what I wish I'd known then. These are the baby gifts worth buying when you're in a professional setting, you have a real budget, and you need to get it right without overstepping.

What to skip before you start
Before we get into the good stuff, a few landmines worth avoiding:

• Don't duplicate what family already bought. Check in before buying items like strollers or car seats. If it's up for grabs on the registry, go for it.
• Avoid anything too personal. Even if it's on their registry, opening a breast pump in front of coworkers gets awkward fast.
• Skip anything religious unless you know their faith with certainty.
• Leave parenting advice books at home. Even funny ones can land wrong and new parents are drowning in unsolicited opinions already.
• Pass on clothing with sayings. "Daddy's Drinking Buddy" is probably a pass in a professional or corporate gift context.

The Best Large Baby Shower Gifts for Coworkers and Clients

(When You Have a Real Budget)

A Beautifully Curated Baby Shower Gift Basket (~$100 - $300+)
Most baby gift baskets are stuffed with filler. Nurtured 9 is different because they're known for thoughtful, high-quality curation, and many of their baby gift baskets lean heavily toward things a new mom can actually use herself (which is rare).

You can build your own baby gift basket from their list, which is so well put together that even the most gift-averse person in your office could pull it off.

They also do corporate gifting if you need a streamlined way to send a "congrats" to clients who've just had a baby. Check out all of the gifts from Nurtured9 here.

Everything But the Rubber Ducky (~$300 - $400)
The Lalo bath starter kit paired with a solid set of bath toys makes a great bundle. For toys, I'm a fan of Munchkin, Green Toys, and Yookidoo. Just make sure whatever you buy is easy to clean inside the toy. Toys with hidden cavities grow mold fast, which is as gross as it sounds. Shop it all here.

Books Before Bedtime (~$400 - $500)
Every baby born today will receive at least three copies of Goodnight Moon, so skip the duplicates and build them a first library full of variety instead. A mix of board books and picture books works well, and your local bookstore will basically blackout from excitement if you walk in and ask them to pick out $300 worth of children's books. Pair it with the Pottery Barn Bookcase and you've given a gift that lasts for years without crossing any professional lines. Shop it all here.

Dinner is Served (~$400–$500)
The Lalo clip-on high chair is sleek, easy to clean, and takes up zero floor space. It works at home, at restaurants, and when visiting family. I specifically like it because it has a footrest, which actually matters for feeding comfort and development (most clip-on chairs skip this). Pair it with stainless steel feeding dishes, a few muslin bibs, and a Little Spoon gift card (fresh, organic baby food delivered to your door) and you've covered them from purees all the way through toddler meals. Shop it all here.

The Ultimate 'Play Station' (~$600–$900)
Lovevery makes age-specific toy kits developed by childhood development experts, and they're thoughtfully designed for parents who aren't into a house full of plastic. They're one of the best gift subscriptions in the baby space. Add the Avery 2-Shelf Cubby with Bins from Pottery Barn Kids and you've included somewhere to put everything (the open bins mean you can actually see the toys without dumping everything out). Shop it all here.

Get Out of the House Kit (~$700 - $1,000)
I'm not exaggerating when I say I have chased down strangers at farmers' markets to ask if they like their Veer wagon. Every single one has said yes without hesitation. Bundle it with outdoor toys, a beach kit (sand toys, a pop-up shade tent, sunscreen), and a cozy blanket and you're basically gifting them an entire summer. Beach days, nature walks, neighborhood strolls – this thing gets used constantly. Shop it all here.

Note: I would get the original cruiser unless they already have a bunch of kids. You can see our Veer Cruiser Wagon review and comparison here.

The bottom line

A big budget is a real opportunity, but it can also feel like a lot of pressure. The best gifts at this level are ones that actually make daily life easier, hold up over time, and don't require the parents to do anything complicated to enjoy them. If you're still not sure, a beautifully curated gift basket plus a gift card to a meal delivery service covers almost every base and will genuinely be appreciated.

Next Up: Baby Shower Card Messages: 50+ Heartfelt, Funny & Original Ideas

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Pregnant Chicken – it keeps the lights on and supports our free content. Updated June 2026.

Thank you notes are one of those tasks that sounds simple but somehow ends up on your to-do list for three weeks while the stack of cards sits on your counter judging you.

You're exhausted, possibly enormous, and you have to figure out something heartfelt to say about the sixth set of burp cloths you received. I get it.

Thankfully, you don't have to be a poet. You just have to be genuine and I'm going to make this as painless as possible with real, usable wording you can tweak and send.

Need cards too? I've got a few of my favorites linked here.

The Basic Formula That Always Works

Before we get into the examples, here's the low-tech template behind almost every good thank you note:

1. Thank them for the specific gift (or their presence)
2. Say something real about how you'll use it or how it made you feel
3. Connect it to the baby or this season of life
4. Wrap it up warmly

Four sentences. You're done. It doesn't need to be longer than that.

Thank You Notes for Specific Gifts

For Clothes

• "Thank you so much for the adorable [outfit/sleepers/onesies]! I genuinely gasped a little – they are so cute I almost can't stand it. I can already picture the baby swimming in them for approximately two weeks before outgrowing them, and I intend to photograph every moment."
• "The little [item] you picked out is absolutely precious. I'm already plotting which outfit goes on for the first hospital photos. Thank you for thinking of us!"
• "Thank you for the [clothes]! Dressing a tiny human is apparently one of the great joys of new parenthood, and you have made that a lot more fun."

For Diapers or Wipes

• "Diapers – the unglamorous gift that every new parent secretly wants more than anything. Thank you. Genuinely. You just bought me roughly [X] panic-free middle-of-the-night changes and I will not forget this."
• "Thank you so much for the diapers! I have been told by every parent I know that you can never have enough, and I now believe them completely. This was so thoughtful."
• "Not glamorous, but honestly? One of the most useful things we could have received. Thank you for being a practical genius."

For a Gift Card

• "A gift card is basically a hug in card form, and I am very grateful for it. We'll be putting it toward [the nursery/baby gear/that thing we keep waffling on], and I'll think of you every time I use it."
• "Thank you for the [store] gift card – the gift that lets us get exactly what we need at the exact moment we realize we need it at 11pm. You're a lifesaver."
• "This is going to come in so handy. We have a running list of things we're sure we forgot, and your gift card is going to cover at least a few of them. Thank you so much."

For Big-Ticket or Registry Items

• "I can't believe you got us the [item]! We debated putting it on the registry because it felt like a big ask, and you just went and did it. We are so grateful and this is going to get used every single day."
• "Thank you so much for the [stroller/monitor/carrier/swing]. We've already been reading the manual (yes, we're those people). This was incredibly generous and we really couldn't be more appreciative."
• "The [item] has already been set up and is currently [sitting in the nursery looking very official / being tested by the dog / the subject of a minor assembly argument]. Thank you for such a thoughtful and generous gift."

For a Baby Book or Keepsake

• "The [baby book/memory box/keepsake] you gave us is so beautiful – I may have teared up a little opening it. I can already see it filled up with tiny footprints and embarrassing first photos. Thank you for helping us capture this."
• "What a special gift. I love that we'll have something to look back on and share with our little one someday. Thank you for thinking of something so meaningful."

For Handmade Gifts

• "I don't know how you did this, but the [blanket/quilt/item] you made is absolutely stunning. Knowing that someone put that much love and time into something for our baby genuinely moves me. It will be treasured."
• "You made this?! I am in awe. This is going straight into the 'things we'll keep forever' category. Thank you so much – this means more than a store-bought gift ever could."

For Cash

• "Cash is a beautiful, beautiful gift and I will not pretend otherwise. Thank you so much – it's going straight toward [the nursery fund/the 'we definitely forgot something' budget/baby's future college fund because we are optimists]."
• "Thank you for the generous cash gift. We're putting it toward [item/fund] and we're so grateful for the flexibility it gives us to get exactly what we need."

For Food, Meals, or Gift Baskets

• "A meal I don't have to cook? You are an actual hero. Thank you so much for the [food/basket/meal delivery] . It's going to be a lifeline in those first foggy weeks."
• "This is honestly one of the most practical and thoughtful gifts we could have received. Future sleep-deprived me is already deeply grateful. Thank you."

For Multiple Gifts From One Person

• "You completely spoiled us and I am not mad about it. Thank you so much for the [gifts] – you thought of everything. We feel so lucky to have you in our corner as we head into this wild new chapter."

Thank You Notes for People Who Came From Far Away

• "Thank you so much for making the trip for the shower. Knowing you were there meant everything to me. It takes a village, and I'm so glad you're part of ours."
• "The fact that you traveled to be there honestly made my day. Thank you for the [gift], but more than that, thank you for showing up. It meant so much."

Thank You Notes When You're Close to the Person

For your mom: "Mom, I don't even know where to start. Thank you for throwing this beautiful shower and for everything you've done to help us get ready for this baby. I'm going to need you a lot in the coming months and I hope you know how grateful I am. Love you."

For your mother-in-law: "Thank you so much for the shower and everything you put into it. We felt so celebrated and loved. I'm so glad [partner's name] has you, and now our little one will too. Thank you for welcoming me into the family the way you have."

For your best friend: "I could not have gotten through this day without you — or honestly this whole pregnancy. Thank you for the [gift], for being my person, and for already loving this baby the way you do. You're going to be the best [honorary aunt/godparent/best friend a kid could have]."

For a close friend who hosted: "You pulled off something beautiful and I want you to know I didn't take a single second of it for granted. Thank you for pouring so much love into this shower. I owe you approximately one million favors."

Thank You Notes for Coworkers

• "Thank you so much for the [gift] and for celebrating this milestone with me at work. It's meant a lot to feel supported by such a great team during this time. I'll be counting down the days until I can bring this little one in to meet everyone!"
• "Thank you for being such a wonderful group of people to go through pregnancy with. The [gift] is so thoughtful, and I'll think of all of you when we use it."
• "Your generosity honestly caught me off guard in the best way. Thank you for the group gift and for making me feel so celebrated. Maternity leave is going to be much more comfortable because of your thoughtfulness."

Thank You Notes for People Who Couldn't Attend But Sent a Gift

• "I was so sorry you couldn't make it, but your gift made it feel like you were there in spirit. Thank you so much for the [gift] and for thinking of us – it means a lot."
• "We missed you at the shower, but we are so touched that you sent such a thoughtful gift. Thank you and we hope you get to meet the baby in person very soon!"

Thank You Notes That Double as Birth Announcements

If you're sending notes after the baby has arrived, you can roll both into one:

• "[Baby's name] arrived on [date] and we are completely smitten. In the middle of all this newborn chaos, I wanted to make sure I thanked you properly for your beautiful gift at the shower. Your [item] has already [been worn/been used/saved the day]. Thank you so much."
• "Writing this from the other side of parenthood – [baby's name] is here and perfect and we're basically zombies in the best possible way. Your [gift] has been such a help already. Thank you for celebrating with us before this little one made their arrival."

When You Have No Idea What They Gave You

This happens. Especially at big showers where someone else is keeping track of the gift log and things get chaotic. Here's a graceful way to handle it:

• "Thank you so much for coming to the shower and for your generous gift. Your support as we head into parenthood means so much to us and we are so grateful."

It's vague, but warm. Nobody needs to know.

A Few Tips to Make This Less Painful

Write them in batches. Ten at a time is more manageable than staring down a stack of 40.

Keep a gift log at the shower. Have someone write down what came from who in real time. Future you will be extremely grateful.

Done is better than perfect. A genuine three-sentence note sent promptly beats a beautifully crafted paragraph that never gets mailed. People remember that you sent one, not whether it was eloquent.

It's okay to be honest about the chaos. Mentioning that you're in the thick of newborn life isn't an excuse – it's relatable. People who've had kids will completely understand.

Give yourself a deadline. Two to three weeks after the shower (or after the baby arrives if they came close together) is the general etiquette guideline. Most people are forgiving if you're a little late and exhausted.

One Last Thing

If you're writing these while massively pregnant or running on three hours of sleep with a newborn on your chest, first of all, you're doing great. Second, nobody expects perfection here. They just want to know their gift landed and that you're happy.

Say thank you, say something real, and seal the envelope. That's all it takes.

Also check out: Newborn Sleep: Start With This One Goal

The first 48 hours after I gave birth, I felt like I'd been hit by a dump truck and then handed a tiny, perfect human I was somehow supposed to keep alive. Not exactly creative director mode (and I say that as someone who spent nearly 30 years as one).

I've also been writing about pregnancy and birth for almost two decades, which means I've seen a lot of Fresh 48 sessions done well and a lot done in a panic. The photos that hold up are not the elaborate ones. They're the real ones taken in hospital lighting, on a phone, by a sleep-deprived person doing their best. Here's what's worth capturing.

What Is a Fresh 48 Session?

A Fresh 48 is any photo documentation of your baby in the first 48 hours of life – whether that's a hospital, birth center, or home birth. It can be done by a professional photographer, your partner, or honestly just you propping your phone up somewhere clever. The goal is to capture the raw, real, unrepeatable first chapter.

Fresh 48 Photo Ideas (The Full List)

• Pre-baby details: the room, the view, the hallway sign, the clock on the wall
• Baby's arrival
• New family photo – close up and from a distance
• Birth parent holding baby – every angle you can manage
• Partner holding baby, with birth parent visible in the background
• Nurse or midwife with baby (always ask first)
• Baby in the bassinet, wrapped and unwrapped
• Baby details: ears, fingers, toes, peach fuzz, the top of that head
• Birth information card or bassinet tag with baby
• Siblings meeting the baby
• Grandparents and family meeting the baby
• Going home outfit, buckled into car seat, walking out the door

Photos You Should Take in the Hospital After Having a Baby

Before Baby Arrives
If you're in early labor and your partner has two free hands, this is a weirdly good time to take photos. The parking lot. The room before it became chaos. The clock when you checked in. These feel pointless in the moment and absolutely fascinating 10 years later. Trust me on this one.

Baby's Arrival
This part is a flurry and you likely won't capture everything – especially if you're the one doing the actual work of giving birth. If you have a birth photographer, great. If not, don't stress. The medical team's priority (rightly) is making sure everyone is okay, not holding for your shot. Let them do their thing, and grab what you can when the dust settles.

New Family Photos
If someone is willing to take a photo – a nurse, a doula, a family member – ask them to grab a few of the three of you. Try both close up and from across the room. The wider shot showing the whole hospital setting will hit differently when you look back at it.

Birth Parent With Baby
This is the one I feel most strongly about. I don't care if you feel puffy, sweaty, or like you've recently survived something (because you have). Get in the photos. Take them from above, straight on, over the shoulder and at every angle. If you hate them now, tuck them away. You will not hate them later. I have never once heard a parent say they wished they had fewer photos from this moment.

Partner With Baby
Use any natural light coming through the room window and move toward it if you can. Try the portrait mode on your phone. Have the birth parent visible in the background if they're up for it; those layered shots are really beautiful and tell the whole story of the room.

Baby in the Bassinet
Pro photographers do incredible overhead shots but I'm not going to tell you to teeter on a chair two hours postpartum. Instead, try a few angles: from the side, from the foot of the bassinet, and straight on. If a nurse or midwife is interacting with the baby and you're comfortable asking, those candid shots are some of the most beautiful ones you'll get.

Baby Wrapped Up
Get a few shots of that iconic pink-and-blue striped hospital blanket situation. Fun fact if you're a trivia person: the Candy Stripe Kuddle-Up blanket was designed by A.L. Mills in the early 1950s – the same guy who made surgical gowns green. The company he founded, Medline, now sells 1.5 million of those blankets a year. You're participating in a deeply American postpartum tradition.

Baby Unwrapped
String bean legs. Drum belly. Peach fuzz everything. You can wait until you're home for this one if the hospital room isn't cooperating, but do make sure you get it. These details disappear fast.

Tiny Details
Here's a framework that actually helps when you're too exhausted to think: far, here, close.

• Far = the whole room in frame — bed, baby, windows, the whole scene
• Here = you or your partner holding the baby, mid-range
• Close = fingers, toes, lips, eyelashes, the soft spot on their head

Shoot a lot. You can delete later. You cannot recreate this.

Baby Signs and Birth Details
Whether it's the card on the bassinet, a custom name tag, a letterboard, or a "Hello My Name Is" sticker, snap a photo of it with your baby. Etsy has beautiful custom keepsake tags you can fill out, and if you know you want one, order it before your due date so it's ready.

Siblings Meeting the Baby
This will either be a Hallmark movie moment or a genuinely hilarious disaster, and honestly both are worth documenting. Make sure someone is specifically assigned to capture this – not just hoping it gets caught. Here's a post on 4 Tips For Introducing a Toddler to a New Sibling if you want to set it up for success.

Grandparents and Family Meeting the Baby
I'll warn you: this section is where I always get emotional. There is something completely undone about watching the people you love meet your baby for the first time. Have someone ready with a phone. These are the photos that end up framed.

Going Home
Don't pack up and leave without getting a few shots on the way out. The going-home outfit, the car seat buckle, the walk down the hospital hallway – these mark the end of one chapter and the start of everything else. They're worth 5 minutes.

One More Thing: Birth Announcements
If you're planning to send birth announcements (and I'd argue you should — people love them and they don't take long), pick your design before you give birth. I partnered with Minted on this post because their birth announcement cards are genuinely beautiful, and having your design chosen ahead of time means you can literally just upload photos and go when you're in the thick of newborn life.

What did I miss?
If you have a Fresh 48 shot that belongs on this list, drop it in the comments or tag me @pregnantchicken on Instagram. Just maybe warn me if it's going to make me cry.

Next Up: The Ultimate Hospital Bag Packing Checklist

This post may contain affiliate links and was created in partnership with Minted. If you purchase through my links I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Pregnant Chicken – it keeps the lights on and supports our free content. Updated May 2026.

When I was pregnant, I tried every single one of these with both of my pregnancies. The ring test, the Chinese calendar, the heart rate theory. All of it. And both times, I was convinced I was having a girl. (Spoiler: I have two boys.) So take all of this with a giant grain of salt and enjoy it for what it is.

That said, there's something deeply human about wanting to know. Before ultrasounds and NIPT tests, this is all people had. (Between wondering if the crops would fail or if they would survive the winter. Good old days, baby!)

Here's a full rundown of the most popular old wives' tales, what they claim, and whether any of them hold up.

Bump Shape & Size

The tale: Carrying low and out front like a basketball? Boy. Carrying high or spread wide? Girl.

This is probably the one the office manager, Barb, will announce the second she sees your belly. The problem is that how you carry has a lot more to do with your core strength, body shape, and the baby's position than it does with sex. First-time moms tend to carry higher because their abdominal muscles are tighter. So this one is really just a fun conversation starter.

Morning Sickness

The tale: Brutal nausea and vomiting = girl. Sailing through the first trimester = boy.

There is some evidence that hyperemesis gravidarum (severe morning sickness) is slightly more common in pregnancies carrying girls, possibly linked to higher levels of hCG. But plenty of people have easy pregnancies with girls and miserable ones with boys. If you're in the thick of it right now, I'm sorry, but it doesn't necessarily mean anything about who's in there.

Heart Rate

The tale: Baby's heart rate above 140 bpm = girl. Below 140 bpm = boy.

This one comes up at almost every prenatal appointment. Fetal heart rate does vary, but it's more influenced by how active the baby is and how far along you are than by sex. A 2006 study published in Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy found no significant difference in heart rates between male and female fetuses in the first trimester. Still a fun one to track though.

Cravings

The tale: Reaching for ice cream and chocolate? Girl. Can't stop thinking about burgers and chips? Boy.

I craved salt and vinegar chips nonstop with both pregnancies, so clearly the "salty = boy" tale had something going for it in my case, but that's anecdote, not data. Cravings are most likely driven by nutritional needs, hormones, and what sounds good when everything else is making you nauseous.

Skin & Hair Changes

The tale: Glowing skin = boy. Breakouts, dull skin, or thinning hair = girl (because she's "stealing your beauty").

First of all, I find the idea that a daughter is stealing your beauty extremely rude. It always feels like a salty mother in law came up with it. Second, skin changes during pregnancy are driven by hormonal shifts that happen regardless of the baby's sex. That said, some research suggests girls may be associated with slightly higher estrogen levels, which could affect skin, but the "glow" or lack thereof is really just pregnancy doing its thing.

Gut Feeling

The tale: You just have that gut feeling that you know what you're having.

Some studies have suggested that mothers' intuition about their baby's sex is correct around 70% of the time, which is better than chance. Whether that's biology, unconscious cue reading, or just a good guess remains unclear. But if you have a strong feeling, it's worth paying attention to. I was convinced both times, and right only once, so your mileage may vary.

The Ring or Pendulum Test

The tale: Hang your wedding ring (or a needle) on a piece of thread over your belly. Circles = girl. Back and forth = boy. (This varies by tradition, so don't @ me.)

This one is pure fun. There's no science behind it, but it's a staple at baby showers and a great way to get everyone involved. (I think it works best with a slightly drunk aunt.) The movement is likely caused by unconscious micro-movements in your hand — called the ideomotor effect — not mystical forces.

The Chinese Gender Prediction Calendar

The tale: Using the mother's lunar age at conception and the lunar month of conception, a chart predicts boy or girl. Claims up to 93% accuracy in some versions.

This one has been around for centuries and is genuinely fascinating from a cultural history standpoint. Studies testing its accuracy have found it performs at about 50/50. So, basically a coin flip. It's still fun.

Partner Clues

The tale: If your partner is gaining weight along with you, you're having a girl.

This one's actually rooted in a real phenomenon called couvade syndrome, where partners experience sympathetic pregnancy symptoms including weight gain, nausea, and mood changes. It's fascinating, but it has nothing to do with the baby's sex. Just a partner who's very emotionally invested (bless them).

The Math-Based Tales

The tale: The Mayan method looks at the mother's age at conception and the year of conception. If both are even or both are odd, girl. One of each, boy. There are also various number-adding tricks floating around online.

These are essentially numerology applied to pregnancy, which means they're exactly as accurate as you'd expect. But they're genuinely fun to calculate at a gender reveal party, so here we are.

The Weird Ones

(Garlic Test, Key Test, and Other Oddities) Eat garlic and if the smell seeps through your pores, it's a boy. Pick up a key from the narrow end and it's a girl, the round end and it's a boy.

I'm including these purely because they're wonderfully unhinged. There's no logic, no science, no through-line, just generations of people looking at a key and thinking this will tell me something.

So What Does Science Say?

Most of these tales perform at right around 50/50. Which makes sense because there are only two options.

The methods with the most legitimate scientific discussion behind them are:

• Morning sickness severity (some weak correlation with female pregnancies)
• Maternal intuition (surprisingly decent track record in some studies)
• Fetal heart rate (varies, but not reliably by sex)

If you actually want to know before birth, your real options are:

• NIPT (non-invasive prenatal testing): Can detect fetal sex from around 10 weeks via a blood draw
• Anatomy ultrasound: Usually done around 18 - 20 weeks
• Amniocentesis or CVS: More invasive, typically done for medical reasons

The Bottom Line

These old wives' tales have been passed down for generations because pregnancy makes us curious, impatient, and a little superstitious, and there's nothing wrong with that. Have fun with them. Just don't paint the nursery based on the ring test.

Did any of these work for you? Drop your experience in the comments. I'd love to know which tales were right (or spectacularly wrong).

Also check out: What Color Eyes Will My Baby Have? Baby Eye Color Predictor

As if new parenthood doesn't already require you to hit the ground running, let's add pumping into the mix. Not only do you have to figure out how you're going to do it, you often have to figure out where – in a moving vehicle, a public bathroom, or a work boardroom (all while worrying if Doug from sales is going to barge in at any moment trying to score leftover cookies from the previous meeting).

After writing about pregnancy and new parenthood for almost two decades, I've tested, reviewed, and heard from thousands of moms about what actually makes pumping easier. Here are the products and hacks I think are worth knowing about. Some are probably on your radar already but I always like to include a full list in case you are starting from zero.

Pumping Gear & Accessories

1. Wearable Breast Pump (Elvie, Willow, Motif Aura Glow, etc.) You've probably seen these — they fit inside your bra, they're wireless, and you can wear them while doing just about anything. The trade-off is that they typically don't have the same suction power as a traditional electric pump, so if supply is a concern, do your research before committing. That said, for convenience and discretion, they're genuinely game-changing.

Quick tip: Before you buy anything, check your insurance. Many plans cover a breast pump and accessories. See our guide: Get a Free Breast Pump Through Insurance: Complete Guide.

2. Pumping Bra If you're using a traditional electric pump, a hands-free pumping bra holds the flanges in place so you can eat, scroll your phone, or stare off into the distance while listening to a true crime podcast while your pump does its thing. A solid investment and Kindred Bravely constantly comes up as a favorite.

DIY Hack: Grab an old sports bra and cut two small slits in the breast area, then insert the flanges from your pump through the holes.

3. Flange Size Inserts Nipples come in different sizes, which means the flange (the trumpet-shaped piece that sits against your breast) needs to fit properly. Flange inserts let you adjust the fit of your existing flanges without buying a whole new set. Aeroflow has a helpful flange sizing chart if you're not sure where to start.

4. Silicone Milk Catcher (Haakaa, Elvie or Munchkin) If you're nursing on one side, a silicone milk catcher on the other side captures the let-down you'd otherwise lose into a breast pad. It's not a pump — it works on suction and gravity — but it's an effortless way to build a little freezer stash.

5. Portable Battery Pack for Your Pump A portable battery is handy if you don't have access to a wall outlet. It's important to note that breast pumps are voltage-specific – for instance, many Medela pumps use 9V and most Spectra pumps use 12V. Check your power cord or instruction manual before buying a battery pack – too low and your suction suffers, too high and you can damage your pump.

6. Car Adapter for Your Breast Pump It plugs into your vehicle's power outlet and connects directly to your pump. Most adapters have 8-foot cords, which means you can pump in the back seat if needed. Medela and Spectra each make their own — the difference is voltage (same as above), not functionality, so check to make sure you're buying the correct one.

Milk Storage

7. Breast Milk Storage Bags Look for bags with pre-printed labels (date, time, volume). Lay them flat to freeze — this saves significant freezer real estate and they thaw faster too.

8. Milk Storage Organizer Tray Keeps your frozen bags standing upright and in order so you're always using the oldest milk first.

9. The Pitcher Method (Hack) Instead of pouring milk into storage bags after every session, collect all your day's pumping sessions in one clean pitcher in the fridge. At the end of the day, combine and pour into bags. This saves bags, reduces waste, and cuts down on dishes. Many lactation consultants recommend it. (Always make sure all milk being combined is the same temperature before storing.)

10. Breast Milk Freezer Tray Freezes milk in 1/2 oz portions, so you can thaw exactly what you need without wasting a drop. Particularly useful for younger babies with smaller feeds.

11. Insulated Cooler Bag with Ice Pack For pumping at work or on the go, an insulated cooler bag keeps your milk fresh until you get home. Momcozy makes a popular one, but any well-insulated bag works.

Pro tip: Use gel ice packs instead of regular ones. Gel packs have a lower freezing point, so they stay colder longer and help keep your milk at a safer temperature during transport.

12. Ceres Chill This is a double-walled, copper-lined chiller that you can attach to most major breast pumps and pump straight into the chiller, skipping the bottle transfer altogether. It keeps milk cold for up to 20 hours, holds between 12 and 34 oz and it's TSA-friendly (huge if you travel for work). It's also FSA, HSA, and HRA reimbursable, so check your benefits before you pay out of pocket.

Cleaning & Sterilizing

13. Microwave Steam Sterilizer Bags These bags sterilize pump parts in about two minutes using nothing but water and your microwave. Reusable, compact, and genuinely useful when you're away from home. They make a silicone version as well. It's more durable but it's a bit bulkier if you want to haul it around with you.

14. Pump Parts Drying Rack Keeps flanges, valves, and connectors elevated and off the counter while they air dry. I like this one from Munchkin because it folds down for easy storage.

15. The Fridge Hack Between pumping sessions during the day, store your pump parts (flanges, valves, tubing) in a sealed zip-lock bag in the refrigerator instead of washing them every time. The cold temperature inhibits bacterial growth. Many lactation consultants approve of this method, but check with yours if you have any concerns, especially for premature or medically fragile babies.

16. Dishwasher Basket for Small Parts Valves, membranes, and bottle lids disappear in a dishwasher without a dedicated basket.

On-the-Go & Workplace

17. Privacy Pumping Poncho For pumping in shared spaces, a nursing poncho gives you coverage without requiring a dedicated room. They are essentially the same thing as a breastfeeding cover, so if someone offers you one, take it. I like this one from Momcozy because it looks like a regular shawl and the mesh makes it breathable.

18. Pumping App (Baby Tracker, Pump Log) Tracking your sessions, output, and timing helps you spot patterns, manage your supply, and figure out when you're most productive. It also helps if you're managing a freezer stash or returning to work. The top three I would check out are Huckleberry (I love their sleep tracking too), Baby Tracker or Pump Log.

19. Portable Fridge A dedicated mini fridge for your office means you're not relying on a shared work fridge or colleagues accidentally knocking over your milk (or adding it to their coffee). A small investment that might remove a daily source of anxiety.

A note on novelty mini fridges: Breast milk needs to be stored below 40°F (4°C) to stay safe, but many super-compact or novelty mini fridges don't actually get that cold, or they cool relative to the ambient room temperature. So if your house or office runs warm, your fridge might not get cold enough to safely store milk. Before you buy, check the specs and confirm that it can maintain a consistent temperature below 40°F regardless of the room.

20. Know Your Rights Under the federal PUMP Act, nearly all employers in the U.S. are required to give you reasonable break time and a private space – not a bathroom – to pump for up to one year after your baby's birth. This covers salaried and hourly workers, teachers, nurses, farmworkers, and most others.

That's the federal floor. Many states have laws that go even further, extending protection beyond one year, requiring paid breaks, or setting specific standards for the pumping space itself. Check Mamava's state-by-state guide to see exactly what your state requires.

Save a screenshot or printout of the federal law and your state law and keep it handy.

21. Mamava Lactation Pod Locator Mamava makes small, private lactation pods installed in airports, stadiums, shopping centers, and workplaces. Their app lets you find the nearest pod before you need it. Worth downloading before you travel.

Comfort & Sanity

22. Pumping Lubricant (Coconut Oil or Pumping Spray) Reduces friction between your skin and the flange, which makes sessions more comfortable and can actually improve output. A small amount of coconut oil spray goes a long way.

23. Warm Compress or Heating Pad Applying these warming pads to your breasts for a few minutes before pumping encourages let-down. This is especially helpful if you're stressed, rushed, or pumping somewhere you'd rather not be. A warm damp cloth works in a pinch.

24. Nipple Cream Pumping can cause soreness, especially early on. Apply a nipple balm after sessions to prevent cracking. Many moms also find it helps to apply a small amount before pumping to reduce irritation.

25. Gel Soothie Pads Store these in the fridge and apply them after a pumping session for instant relief. Lansinoh can be used hot or cold, which is why they are my pick for the warm compress reco above – two birds, baby!

26. Dedicated Podcast or Show List Reframing pumping as your time – possibly the only quiet 20 minutes in your day – can genuinely change your relationship with it. Stress inhibits let-down, so relaxing actually helps you pump more. Pick something you only let yourself watch or listen to during sessions and it becomes something to look forward to.

27. Sticky Note Over the Auto-Flush Sensor If you're pumping in a public bathroom stall (it happens), cover the automatic toilet sensor with a sticky note before you start. Otherwise, it will flush repeatedly throughout your session. Unglamorous advice, but experience-tested.

28. Printable "Pumping in Progress" Sign A simple printable sign you can tape to a door or hang from a handle signals to anyone nearby that you need a few minutes of privacy. A small thing that prevents a lot of interruptions.

Nobody hands you a manual for this. But between the right pump setup, a few clever hacks, and knowing your rights, pumping gets a whole lot more doable, even if you still have to deal with Doug and his cookie hunt.

If you've got a tip that should be on this list, drop it in the comments.

Also check out: Breast Pumping at Work: Packing Checklist

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through my links I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Pregnant Chicken — it keeps the lights on and supports our free content. Updated April 2026.

If you've got an expired, outgrown, or banged-up car seat taking up prime real estate in your garage, Target will take it off your hands AND give you 20% off new baby gear. That's a win-win if I've ever heard one.

Here's everything you need to know to make the most of it.

What Is the Target Car Seat Trade-In Program?

Twice a year, Target runs a trade-in event where you can drop off an old car seat (any brand, any condition) at a participating store and walk away with a 20% Target Circle bonus toward select baby gear.

Right now, the program runs April 19 to May 2, with the bonus valid through May 16, 2026.

Since the program launched in April 2016, Target has recycled over 3.5 million car seats (or 1.2 million pounds of car seat material) turning all that sticky, Cheerio-dusted plastic into things like pallets, plastic buckets, construction materials, and even select Brightroom products.

What Car Seats Qualify?

All of these are accepted, regardless of brand:

• Infant car seats
• Convertible car seats
• Car seat bases
• Harness or booster car seats
• Seats that have been in an accident or are damaged
• Seats that are expired

Basically: if it's a car seat you're done with, it qualifies. Just note that this program is car seats and bases only – strollers, bouncers, and other gear don't go in the drop-off box, so don't make a wasted trip with a trunk full of miscellaneous baby equipment.

Wait, Do Car Seats Expire?

They do, and a lot of parents don't realize it. Most car seats expire 6 to 10 years from the manufacture date (it varies by brand and model). To find yours, look for a sticker on the seat itself – it'll show the manufacture date, and sometimes the expiration date outright. If it's not obvious, check the manufacturer's website using the model name.

If your seat has hit its expiration date, it legally shouldn't be used anymore anyway, so this trade-in is the perfect send-off.

How the Target Car Seat Trade-In Works (Step by Step)

You'll want the Target App downloaded before you go so you can grab your bonus on the spot.

1. Bring your old car seat or base to a participating Target store. Drop-off boxes are located near Guest Services.
2. Scan the QR code on the box with your mobile device to add the bonus to your Target Circle account. (A team member at Guest Services can sort you out if you need help.)
3. Find your bonus in your Target Circle Wallet.
4. Use it. The bonus can be applied in-store or online, and it's redeemable twice.

What Can You Use the 20% Bonus On?

The bonus applies to:

• Car seats, booster seats, and car seat bases
• Travel systems and strollers
• Select baby home gear: playards, high chairs, swings, rockers, bouncers, walkers, entertainers, and jumpers

A couple of things to keep in mind: the bonus excludes Target Plus items and clearance, but it can be combined with other item-level offers, which is worth knowing if something is already on sale. And since you can use it twice, you could potentially stack savings on two separate purchases.

A Few Things Worth Knowing Before You Go

These trade-in events can get busy toward the end of the window, and some stores run out of box space. Going earlier, closer to April 19, tends to mean fewer crowds and less hassle.

Also, don't overthink whether your seat "qualifies." If it's a car seat and you're done with it, Target will take it. Expired, damaged, ancient, curb garbage, all fair game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trade in more than one car seat? Yes, but you receive one 20% bonus per Target Circle account, regardless of how many seats you drop off.

Does the bonus stack with other offers? Yes, it can be combined with other item-level offers, which is great if something you want is already discounted. Just note it excludes Target Plus items and clearance.

What if I don't have the Target App? You'll need to scan the QR code on the drop-off box to get your bonus, so downloading the Target App beforehand is the easiest route. If you run into trouble, Guest Services at the store can help.

What does Target do with the old car seats? They're recycled by Target's partners into new products like pallets, plastic buckets, steel beams, carpet padding, and select Brightroom items. So your old seat genuinely has a second life.

Is this a seasonal thing? Target typically runs the program twice a year, in spring and fall. Setting a reminder now means you won't miss the next one.

Is It Worth It?

If you already have a seat to get rid of, absolutely. You were going to deal with it eventually, you might as well get 20% off a new stroller or playard out of it. And the seat is being recycled rather than ending up in a landfill.

Set a calendar reminder for April 19 so this one doesn't sneak past you!

Related: Finding the Best Infant Car Seat

Your stroller is already doing a lot of heavy lifting. But a few well-chosen accessories can take it from "fine" to "how did I ever leave the house without this?" I've been writing about baby gear since 2010 and have two kids who have put a lot of strollers through their paces, so here's what I think is actually worth adding to your stroller setup.What stroller accessories have you added to your setup?

Do Not Touch Tags

Babies are irresistible, so it's not surprising that well-meaning people often reach in and touch a newborn without thinking about what's on their hands. I came up with these durable signs that can go on a stroller, car seat, or carrier if you are too hoarse from screaming, "keep your filthy hands off my precious baby!" at old ladies at the supermarket. Shop here.

BuggyGuard Stroller Lock

It takes a real piece of work to steal a baby stroller, but they're expensive and it happens more than you'd think. The BuggyGuard has a retractable cable that loops through the wheels and locks to any stationary object, with a combination lock so there are no keys to lose. The compact design tucks away neatly and doesn't interfere with folding. Keep it clipped to your stroller so it's always there when you need it. Shop here.

Habitat Stroller Cup Holder with Phone Holder

You will need your coffee, your water bottle, and your phone simultaneously approximately 100% of the time you are walking. This holder keeps all three within reach on your stroller handle, which sounds like a small thing until you've tried to fish your phone out of the bottom of a diaper bag with one hand while steering with the other. Shop here.

Skip Hop Ultra Stroller Organizer

This is the storage upgrade most strollers genuinely need. Multiple pockets, insulated cup holders, and easy access to wipes, snacks, and your keys — all from the handlebar. If you're the kind of person who likes everything to have a place (or desperately wishes you were), this is your accessory. Shop here.

Lulyboo Stroller Hook Clips Set

For everything that doesn't fit anywhere else — shopping bags, a backpack, a tote with 40 things in it. These clips hang from the handlebar and hold a surprising amount. One important note: be mindful of how much weight you pile on, because a back-heavy stroller will tip the moment you let go of the handle, and that's a lesson you don't want to learn with a baby in the stroller. Shop here.

Skip Hop Stroll & Connect Bladeless Stroller Fan

Bladeless is the key word here — no little fingers getting into spinning blades, which is less about safety (most stroller fans wouldn't do any damage) and more about a baby who can't help but fiddle with something that's moving. This fan connects easily to your stroller and keeps air moving. A hot, sweaty, overtired baby is everyone's worst afternoon, and this helps avoid that. Shop here.

Nuby Stroller Fan

I like this one because it's easy to move around so you get the perfect fan angle. It also delivers a little more breeze than the bladeless if your baby can resist messing with it. Shop here.

Nuby Eco Stroller Weather Shield & Netting Set

Rain, wind, bugs, and the occasional rogue bee — this shield and netting combo handles all of it. It fits over the stroller to block the elements and keeps flying insects out, which perfect if you're doing any outdoor time in bug season or somewhere tropical. The fact that it doubles as weather protection makes it worth having year-round. Shop here.

7AM Enfant Blanket 212 Evolution Extendable Footmuff

This is a warm sleeping bag for your baby, and it is wonderful. The adjustable, removable top gives you temperature control, and the extendable footmuff means it grows with your child so you actually get seasons of use out of it. It's pricey so if you just need something for occasional use I'd just use a warm blanket but if you're somewhere with brutal winters, it's a great investment. Shop here.

7AM Enfant Warmmuffs Stroller Gloves

These look a little odd at first but they're genuinely brilliant. They stay on the stroller handle — not your hands — which means you can take them off and on without dropping them or losing one on the sidewalk. Easy access to your baby, your phone, your coffee, your dignity. Shop here.

morepeas Baby Toy and Cup Strap

These simple straps attach toys, pacifiers, sippy cups, and teethers to your stroller so that when your baby inevitably flings something as hard as they can toward the ground, it just... bounces. Cheap, effective, and one of those things you'll wonder how you lived without. I like the snaps on these. Shop here.

Adjustable Silicone Straps

Here is another version that has a thinner strap and the items attach through a pull through loop vs. the snap. Shop here.

Chian Link Rings

Another option for attaching goodies to the stroller are these rings. I like that you can customize the length. Shop here.

Lalo Snack Cup

This cup is spill-resistant (emphasis on resistant, because nothing with a toddler is truly spill-proof), easy for little hands to dig into, and works great for Puffs, Cheerios, or whatever your child is currently willing to eat. It fits into most cup holders too. Shop here.

Skip Hop Glow with Me Portable Sound Machine

If your baby has learned to fall asleep to white noise at home (and honestly, good for you for starting that habit early), this little acorn brings that magic on the road. It clips right to the stroller, glows softly, and plays soothing sounds so your baby thinks they're in their crib even when you're navigating a crowded farmers market. The fact that it's shaped like an acorn is completely unnecessary and yet somehow makes it even better. Shop here.

Frida Baby Hands Free Rocker

This one's a bit of a wildcard, but stay with me. Clip it to your stroller or use it at home to keep baby gently rocking while you actually do something with your hands — like drink a full cup of coffee or shake your fists at the sky because you're dealing with a sleep regression. Shop here.

Skip Hop Farmstand Avocado Stroller Toy

Everything for babies is avocado-themed right now and I refuse to be annoyed about it, because this toy is cute and genuinely works. Crinkly, soft, clips right to the stroller, and holds a baby's attention surprisingly well. Shop here.

Infantino Go gaga! Musical Travel Bar Activity Toy

This arches over the stroller seat and gives your baby an entire entertainment center to interact with — lights, music, toys to bat at. It's a lot, and babies love it. Great for longer outings when you need your little one engaged and happy. Shop here.

Lamaze Clip & Go Freddie the Firefly

A classic for a reason. Soft, colorful, clips easily to the stroller, and has stayed popular for years because babies are consistently obsessed with it. If you need a straightforward, reliable stroller toy, Freddie is always a good call. Shop here.

Mockingbird Riding Board Stroller Accessory

For the toddler who wants to walk everywhere right up until the moment they absolutely don't. The Mockingbird board is especially good because it sits off to the side, so you're not kicking it with every step — which if you've ever used a riding board before, you know is a genuine quality-of-life improvement. This one is compatible with the Mockingbird stroller but depending on how your stroller is configured it might work. Shop here.

tagalong Kids' Handle

For the toddler who still needs to stay close and feel like they have a job to do (and also isn't a bolter). This attaches to the stroller and gives them their own handle to hold. They feel like a big kid, you maintain some crowd control, everybody wins. Shop here.

Drop them in the comments – I love finding out what's actually working for people out there.

Related: Mockingbird Stroller Review – Too Good to Be True?

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through my links I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Pregnant Chicken — it keeps the lights on and supports our free content. Updated 2026.

Easter is right around the corner, and if this is your baby's first one, you're probably wondering what on earth goes in a basket for someone who can't eat candy and doesn't know what a bunny is yet.

Good news: there are genuinely great options. After years of writing about baby gear and shopping for my own two boys, I've rounded up the best baby Easter basket ideas — things that are small enough to fit in a basket, useful enough to actually use, and cute enough to make the whole thing feel special.

I've focused on items that won't collect dust after Easter Sunday. Most of these work well into toddlerhood, which means better value and less waste.

🛒 Want the full shoppable list? Every item in this post is linked and ready to shop — head here to browse the full list.

What to look for in a baby Easter basket:

• Safe for your baby's age and stage
• Small enough to tuck into a basket
• Useful beyond the holiday
• Easter-adjacent without being so themed they're useless in May

The Best Baby First Easter Basket Ideas

Custom Easter Basket If you're going to do a basket, get one that grows with them. Pottery Barn Kids has a great selection of sizes and designs that work well past babyhood.

Easter Pajamas You can never have too many sleepers, and bunny or duck prints feel seasonal without being so Easter-specific that you can't use them in June. My top picks: Hanna Andersson (splurge-worthy), Burt's Bees Baby (soft and affordable), and Old Navy (great value).

Hip Hop Onesie (Etsy) If you want something a little unexpected, these "hip hop" graphic onesies are a fun twist on the usual Easter fare. Several Etsy sellers make them — worth a browse if you want something with personality.

Bunny Crib Shoes Cute without being aggressively Easter-specific — you can easily keep using these past the holiday. Available at Target.

Knitted Bunny Hat I mean, how perfect is this for Easter photos? Found these from Marys Knits on Etsy.

Cuddle + Kind Bunny These are genuinely some of the most beautiful stuffed animals I've ever seen — soft, well-made, and they hold up to serious love. What makes them special is that each purchase provides 5–15 meals to children in need. They sell out fast, so don't wait. Available on their site and Amazon.

Stuffed Chick Only 5 inches tall, easy for little hands to hold, and genuinely adorable. Available on Amazon and Target.

Carter's Organic Cotton Bunny Lovey This one comes wrapped, which means it's basket-ready right out of the box. Sweet, soft, and the kind of thing babies genuinely attach to. Available on the Carter's website.

Pottery Barn Kids Personalized Bunny Available in small and jumbo, plain or personalized on the ear. The kind of thing that gets kept for years. Available at Pottery Barn Kids.

Loulou Lollipop Bunny Teether Textured on both sides, easy to hold, and free of BPA, PVC, phthalates, lead, and cadmium. If bunnies aren't your thing, they also make alligators, elephants, giraffes, llamas, lions, and rhinos. Available on the Loulou Lollipop site and Amazon.

Carrot Teether A carrot-shaped teether that's perfect for Easter and genuinely useful for teething babies. Available at Target.

Haba Musical Eggs Four wooden eggs that rattle, chirp, and jingle — plus one that twists and clicks. They're perfectly sized for little hands, made from sustainably sourced beech wood in Germany, and finished with non-toxic stains. An Easter basket item that actually gets played with. Available at Target, Amazon, and the HABA site.

Hide N Squeak Eggs A classic for good reason. Six eggs that crack open to reveal chicks that chirp when pressed. Each egg has a shape on its base that fits a unique spot in the carton — a sneaky early shape-sorting activity. Available at Walmart.

Loulou Lollipop Stacking Cups Softer than standard stacking cups, which means they stack more reliably and make a less teeth-rattling crash when they fall (they will fall). Works for both playtime and bath. Available on the Loulou Lollipop site.

Loulou Lollipop Bath Toy Set These bath toys open up so mold can't grow inside them — a detail that matters more than you'd think after a few weeks of bath time. Great grip size for small hands. Available on the Loulou Lollipop site and Amazon.

Hatching Duck Bath Toy Fill the egg with water, watch the duck slowly appear. Push it down, water squirts out. Pick up the egg, water sprinkles from the bottom. Simple, delightful, endlessly entertaining. Available on Amazon.

Dabble & Dollop Bundle of Joy Minis Kit Three fragrance-free essentials — cleanser, soother, moisturizer — in the cutest little minis that fit perfectly in a basket. Genuinely useful from day one, which honestly puts them ahead of most Easter basket fillers. Available on the Dabble & Dollop site.

Shopping for an older kid? Check out theBunny Bundle that includes Limited Edition Chocolate Bunny Whip (3-in-1 shampoo, body wash, and bubble bath that creates seriously impressive bubbles and smells like the chocolate bunny) and two Bunny Bath Bomb Trios. It's also available on the Dabble & Dollop site.

ezpz Tiny Cup Developed with a Pediatric Feeding Specialist, this food-grade silicone cup has a weighted base and tactile bumps to help resist tipping. It's suitable from 4 months. For older babies, the Mini Cup + Straw is the next step up. Available on the ezpz site, Amazon, and Target.

ezpz Tiny Spoons The sensory bumps on the bowl of these spoons help reduce gagging and choking during early feeding — something I wish I'd known about sooner. A small item that actually earns its basket space. Available on the ezpz site, Amazon, and Target.

Tubby Todd All Over Ointment I've reviewed this one in depth (link to review) and it's the real deal — great for dry skin, eczema-prone skin, and general baby softness. The green label gives it a spring feel, which is a bonus. Available on the Tubby Todd site.

Babyganics SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, free of parabens, phthalates, PABA, fragrance, and nanoparticles. Spring is a good time to start the sun protection habit. Available at Target.

Babiators Sunglasses Objectively the cutest thing a baby can wear. More importantly, they offer real UVA/UVB protection and are durable enough to survive being sat on, thrown, and chewed. Available on the Babiators site, Amazon and Target.

Loulou Lollipop Bunny Meadow Swaddle The single swaddle comes rolled up, which means it literally fits like it was made for a basket. The Bunny Meadow print is sweet without being over-the-top. If soft pink isn't your thing, Adventure Begins and Woodland Gnome are great alternatives. Available at Target, Amazon, and the Loulou Lollipop site.

Wooden Hair Brush Surprisingly practical if your baby came out with a full head of hair (mine didn't, which made the Easter egg comparison a little too accurate). Found a lovely spring-packaged version at Target.

Minted Personalized Labels These are the kind of practical gift parents actually appreciate — perfect for labeling sippy cups, shoes, and jackets. They come on a sheet, so they sit nicely in a basket too. Available at Minted.

Portable Sound Machine Not egg-shaped, but it has Easter vibes (I'm choosing to believe this). Four sound options — heartbeat, white noise, ocean, lullaby — and compact enough for a diaper bag. Available on Amazon.

Personalized Board Book (Pottery Barn Kids) The Snuggle Bunny book follows a bunny through a bedtime routine — tidying up, brushing teeth, getting cozy. Personalizing it makes it a keepsake. Available at Pottery Barn Kids.

Easter Board Books Worth Adding

Some of these are Easter-specific; some just feature bunnies and ducks. All of them are worth reading more than once:

• I Am a Bunny — honestly, the best one. Available at Target.
• Peter Rabbit Easter Fun — Target
• Peter Rabbit Beatrix Potter Easter Spring Deluxe Soft Book — Target
• Where's the Bunny? — Target

👉 See the full list: 21 Best Easter Board Books for Babies and Toddlers

The Bottom Line

Your baby won't remember their first Easter — but you will, and so will the photos. The best basket is one that has a few things they'll genuinely use, one thing that's purely for the occasion, and maybe a book or two.

Just because they can't eat the jelly beans doesn't mean they can't have an amazing basket. And at the end of the day, the most important thing they'll know this Easter is that somebunny loves them very much.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have a bulk bag of mini eggs calling my name.

Related Reading:

• 40+ First Easter Baby Photo Shoot Ideas You Can Do at Home
• 21 Best Easter Board Books for Babies and Toddlers
• Tubby Todd All Over Ointment: An Honest Review

Look, we get it, babies are cute. Those sweet cheeks, that sweet baby smell, those tiny fingers wrapped around yours – it takes everything not to smother them with kisses. (They really are yummy.)

But a baby's immune system is brand new, like, literally just unpacked from the box. What reads as a minor sniffle to you could land a newborn in the hospital.

Let's break down exactly why those kisses need to wait, and why baby kisses are riskier than you think.

It All Comes Down to Germ Transfer

When someone kisses a baby – especially on or near the face – they're potentially transferring bacteria and viruses that their adult immune system handles just fine, but a baby's developing system can't fight off yet.

The even trickier part is that many people don't even know they're contagious.

The relative who "just has allergies"? Could be early RSV. The neighbor who had a cold last week and feels fine now? Still potentially shedding virus. That friend who swears they never get cold sores? They might carry HSV-1 without symptoms.

The risk isn't a baby getting a little sniffly. We're talking about serious infections that can affect their brain, lungs, and other vital organs during those first months when they're most vulnerable.

The 4 Biggest Risks When Someone Kisses a Newborn

1. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

This is the big one, especially right now. A 2024 study that followed over 2.3 million children born in Sweden found something shocking: even healthy, full-term babies with no underlying conditions ended up in intensive care with severe RSV.

The median age of the sickest babies? Just under two months old.

For adults, RSV symptoms are so mild you might think it's just a stuffy nose or slight cold. But for babies, RSV can mean:

• Difficulty breathing and rapid breathing
• Severe dehydration
• Hospital admission (2.8% of RSV-infected infants were hospitalized)
• ICU stays with oxygen support
• In rare cases, death

Babies born in winter months or those with siblings under 3 have a threefold higher risk, and prevention is infinitely easier than treatment.

The good news: RSV hospitalizations have dropped since vaccines became available. But that doesn't mean a baby is automatically protected – especially in those first vulnerable months.

2. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1)

About 67% of adults under 50 carry HSV-1, the virus that causes cold sores. Many don't even know they have it because they've never had an outbreak.

Here's what makes it brutal for newborns: you can spread herpes even without an active, visible cold sore.

When a newborn contracts HSV-1, it's not just a blister on their lip. The virus can:

• Spread to their eyes, potentially causing vision problems
• Attack their central nervous system, leading to brain damage
• Cause herpes meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes)
• Become life-threatening if it reaches their organs
• Leave permanent intellectual disabilities

We've all heard heartbreaking stories and the younger the baby, the more vulnerable they are. The first four weeks are the highest risk period, but you should curb the kisses for at least the first three months.

3. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

This viral infection is incredibly common in daycare settings and among young children, but it's easily spread to babies through kissing or close contact. While it sounds relatively benign, HFMD causes:

• Painful ulcers and blisters in and around the mouth
• Rashes on hands, feet, and diaper area
• Fever and irritability
• Difficulty eating and drinking (which can lead to dehydration in infants)

As with many of these treats, someone can spread HFMD before they show any symptoms. So that well-meaning toddler who kissed a baby's hands yesterday? They might develop blisters tomorrow, but that baby could already be infected.

4. Their Barely-There Immune System

Let's talk about what's actually happening inside a newborn's body. For the first three months of life, babies have significantly fewer infection-fighting immune cells – specifically neutrophils and monocytes – compared to older children and adults.

Think of it this way: their immune system is like a security team that's severely understaffed. They're doing their best, but they're easily overwhelmed.

Bacteria that normally live harmlessly in an adult's body (like Group B streptococci (GBS) from the gastrointestinal tract or certain E. coli strains) can cause:

• Sepsis (blood infection)
• Pneumonia
• Meningitis (inflammation of brain and spinal cord membranes)

These aren't "baby got a cold" situations. These are "rush to the emergency room" scenarios that can have life-threatening consequences.

What About Parents Kissing Their Own Baby?

Great question. Parents can generally kiss their baby because:

• They're in constant contact anyway
• They share the same household germs
• They're hyper-aware of their own health status

So What Can You Do Instead?

The good news: there are tons of ways to bond with and show love to a new baby that don't involve face kisses.

Great alternatives:

• Hold their tiny hand or foot
• Snuggle them close (after washing your hands)
• Talk to them – babies love hearing different voices
• Give gentle head pats or back rubs
• Just be present – your company matters more than your lips on their face

The golden rules for visiting:

• Wash your hands when you arrive
• If you've been even slightly sick in the past week, reschedule
• If you have any active cold sore or feel one coming, definitely reschedule
• Save the face kisses for when baby's older

The Bottom Line: Their Baby, Their Rules

Parents don't need to justify protecting their baby.

Anyone who truly cares about that child's wellbeing won't be offended by being asked not to kiss them. And if they are? That's their problem, not the parents.

That baby will have their entire life ahead of them for kisses from loving family members. Right now, during these vulnerable first months, everyone's job is to protect that developing immune system.

There are a million ways to show love to a baby that don't involve putting your mouth on their face. Anyone who can't respect that can kiss an ass instead.

Also check out: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting a Newborn

I'll never forget the well-meaning coworker who showed up unannounced three days after I brought my firstborn home. She arrived with a cold, stayed for two hours, and expected me to make coffee. I spent the visit fighting back tears of exhaustion while she dominated the conversation with unsolicited advice.

That experience taught me everything about what NOT to do when visiting a newborn. After writing about pregnancy for over a decade and navigating two of my own newborn phases, I've learned that the difference between a welcome visit and a stressful one comes down to a few crucial principles.

The Golden Rule: It's About Them, Not You

Visiting a baby is a privilege, not a right. New parents are navigating sleep deprivation, physical recovery, feeding challenges, and keeping a tiny human alive. Your excitement doesn't automatically entitle you to a meet and greet.

Wait for the invitation. Never drop by unannounced – not to the hospital, not to their home, not even if you're "just in the neighborhood" with muffins.

Try this approach: "I'm so excited to meet [baby's name] whenever you're ready! No rush at all – just let me know when visitors would be helpful rather than overwhelming."

Even if you've scheduled a visit, text 30 minutes before you leave: "Still good for our 2 PM visit? And can I grab anything from Target on my way?" New parents exist in a timeless fog where scheduled visits can slip their minds, and that heads-up gives them a chance to reschedule guilt-free (or put a bra on).

Before You Visit: Health and Safety Non-Negotiables

Newborns have developing immune systems and haven't received most vaccinations yet. Your first job is protecting that vulnerable baby.

Cancel your visit if you:

• Feel even slightly under the weather (scratchy throat, mild congestion, fatigue)
• Have been around sick people in the past week
• Had a cold or flu – wait at least one full week after recovery

I missed meeting my friend's daughter by two weeks because I had a lingering cough. But that baby is now five, and I've been at every birthday party since. Short-term sacrifice, long-term relationship.

When you arrive:

• Wash your hands immediately with soap and water for 20 seconds – before anyone asks
• Skip the fragrance (no perfume, no scented lotions)
• Do not kiss the baby. Not on the face, not on the hands, nowhere. Even if you feel healthy, you can transmit viruses like RSV or HSV that cause serious illness in newborns. You can read more about it here.

Your Visit Game Plan

There's a crucial difference between being a visitor and being a helper. A visitor requires entertainment. A helper reduces the workload. Here's how to be the latter:

Bring Food, Not Flowers

The most helpful thing you can bring:

• Complete meals ready to heat and eat
• Freezer-friendly dishes
• Healthy snacks you can eat with one hand
• Restaurant gift cards or food delivery credits

Always check for dietary restrictions and ask what they're craving. One friend told me she was desperate for fresh fruit. Another wanted nothing but carbs.

When You Arrive: Offer Specific Help

Don't say "Let me know if you need anything!" Most exhausted parents won't take you up on this.

Instead, try:

• "I'm at the grocery store, can I grab milk, diapers, or anything else?"
• "I'm bringing dinner Thursday. Chicken pasta or veggie stir-fry?"
• "If you want to take a long shower or have a nap, I'm completely comfortable here with the baby."
• "I'd love to help out while I'm here. What would make the biggest difference? Dishes? Laundry? A grocery run?"

Hold the Baby Only If Offered

Never assume you can hold the baby. Wait until a parent offers. New parents are navigating intense bonding hormones, healing bodies, and anxiety about germs. They may not want to hand over their baby, and that's their right.

If you are offered baby snuggles: wash your hands again, always support the head and neck, sit down, and hand them back if the baby starts to cry.

What to Talk About (And What to Avoid)

Don't ask:

• "Are you breastfeeding?" → Feeding choices are deeply personal and often fraught.
• "Is the baby sleeping through the night yet?" → Newborns don't sleep through the night; it's developmentally normal.
• "Did you have a natural birth?" → Technically, I would argue that all birth is natural, plus, birth stories can be traumatic. Let parents decide if and when to share.
• "Don't you just love being a mom?" → Not all parents bond immediately. Some experience postpartum depression.

Avoid commenting on:

• Her body ("You look so tired," "When will you lose the baby weight?")
• Her house ("Wow, it's really messy in here!")
• Her parenting (unsolicited advice, "In my day we did it this way...")

Safe, supportive conversation starters instead:

• "The baby is absolutely beautiful. Those tiny fingers!"
• "How are you feeling? Really – no pressure to say 'fine' if you're not."
• "Tell me about [baby's name]'s personality so far. Are they calm? Feisty?"
• "What's been the biggest surprise so far?"
• "Do you feel like talking about the birth, or would you rather I catch you up on normal life stuff?"

The golden rule: Follow their lead. If they want to vent about cracked nipples and sleep deprivation, listen. If they want to talk about literally anything other than the baby, give them that gift.

Social Media Boundaries

NEVER post photos of someone else's baby without explicit permission. This is the parents' news to share on their timeline.

When to Leave (And Why Coming Back Matters More)

A good visit lasts 30 minutes to an hour – not three hours.

Signs it's time to wrap up: parents start checking the time, mom looks uncomfortable, baby needs to eat or sleep, or the conversation naturally winds down.

Before you leave: "I don't want to overstay. Would it be helpful for me to stay a bit longer, or is this a good stopping point?"

The 4-week follow-up: Here's what most visitors don't realize: By week four, the visitors stop, the meal train ends, and the reality of long-term sleep deprivation sets in. That's when new parents need you most.

Set a reminder for four weeks after birth, then reach out: "Thinking of you! Can I bring over dinner this week?" This second visit means more than the first one.

The Real Secret

The visitors new parents remember fondly are the ones who made their lives easier, not harder. They showed up with food, respected boundaries, kept visits short, and returned during the harder weeks that followed.

Quick Recap:

DO:

• Wait for an invitation
• Confirm you're healthy and vaccinated
• Wash your hands immediately
• Bring food or practical help
• Keep visits under an hour
• Follow up in a few weeks

DON'T:

• Visit if you're even slightly sick
• Kiss the baby
• Drop by unannounced
• Post photos without permission
• Comment on her body, house, or parenting
• Overstay your welcome

Following these guidelines isn't about walking on eggshells; it's about recognizing that this tender postpartum period is unlike any other time in a family's life. The new parents in your life are lucky to have someone who cares enough to get this right.

Now go be the visitor they actually want to see... just call first.

You might also find these posts helpful:

• 20 One-Handed Snack Ideas for New Parents
• 15 Meals to Bring a New Mom (That Aren't Lasagna)
• 30+ DIY New Mom Gift Basket Ideas
• 10 Thoughtful Gifts for New Moms (That Actually Help)

There is no one on the planet who loves thrift store shopping more than me. Stuff is expensive, we need to keep useful stuff out of landfills, and the thrill of the find lights my brain up like a Christmas tree. If you are having a baby, you can save some serious cash by buying things secondhand, whether it's at a thrift store, garage sale, consignment store, or Facebook Marketplace. Over the years of thrifting and researching for this site, I learned which baby items are total wins secondhand and which ones you should absolutely skip (no matter how good the deal looks).

Quick Answer: What's Safe to Thrift?

Buy secondhand: clothes, books, toys, storage bins, nursery decor, curtains, humidifiers, high chairs, strollers, baby carriers, play mats, and blankets.

Don't buy secondhand: car seats, cribs (especially drop-side), mattresses, breast pump motors, bottle nipples, expired items, and anything that's been recalled.

The golden rule? If it's a safety item with an expiration date or hidden damage could hurt your baby, buy it new.

What You Should Buy Secondhand

These items are typically safe to buy used and can save you serious money without compromising safety.

Clothes

This is the easiest win. Babies outgrow sizes in weeks, so most secondhand baby clothes have barely been worn. I once bought a $60 snowsuit for $3 that still had the tags on it. Look for stain-free items and check zippers and snaps.

Books

Board books get expensive fast, but thrifted ones work perfectly, and a little corner wear doesn't affect story time. I built my sons' entire library from library sales and yard sales for next to nothing. Here's a great post on how to clean them too.

Toys

Babies don't care if their stacking cups are brand new. Check that toys have no small parts that could break off, no recalls (search the model number at cpsc.gov), and give everything a good wash or wipe-down. Wooden toys and basic plastic items hold up great. Lovevery, Haba, KiwiCo, Hape, and Melissa & Doug are good brands to watch out for.

Storage Bins and Organizers

Cubbies, canvas bins, shelving units – these are all perfect secondhand. Babies create so much stuff to organize, and storage doesn't expire. I try to keep an eye out for Pottery Barn storage because it's usually well-made.

Art and Nursery Decor

Frames, prints, wall hangings, and decorative items can transform a nursery on a budget. I found vintage alphabet prints at an estate sale that everyone thought I'd commissioned custom. Just don't hang anything over your crib (I swear that line will be etched on my tombstone).

Curtains

As long as they fit your windows and aren't stained, curtains are a great thrift. Blackout curtains, especially – those things are pricey new.

Diaper Bags

I see so many great diaper bags when I'm on the hunt. Thrift a sturdy one and save your money for diapers.

Baby Bathtubs

Plastic baby tubs are straightforward – no safety concerns as long as there are no cracks. Especially helpful if you're buying extras to keep at grandma's house.

Changing Tables and Dressers

Solid furniture lasts forever. Just make sure it's sturdy, any drawers don't smell, and it hasn't been recalled. You can use a regular dresser with a changing pad on top.

Swaddles and Blankets

Wash them well and they're as good as new. Avoid anything with stains or loose threads that could be a hazard.

What You Could Buy Secondhand

These items are technically safe to buy used, but many parents prefer to buy them new for peace of mind. If you're getting them from a trusted friend or family member whose habits you know, they can be great money-savers.

Humidifiers

Thrift stores are full of humidifiers. I always like to keep an eye out for Crane models (they've been around forever, and they can be pricey). Ideally, try to test it beforehand to make sure it works and clean it thoroughly before use.

High Chairs

These get messy but are built to last. Make sure all straps and buckles work, the tray locks securely, and check the brand and model against the CPSC recall list. Wipe it down well – dried food hides everywhere. Brands like Stokke are great to find on Facebook Marketplace.

Strollers

A quality stroller can cost $500+ new. Secondhand ones often work perfectly. Check that wheels roll smoothly, brakes work, the harness is intact, and the fabric isn't ripped. Research the model first to ensure it hasn't been recalled.

Baby Carriers and Wraps

If all straps, buckles, and fabric are in good shape with no tears or fraying, carriers are safe to buy used. Some of these tend to get light use before babies outgrow them. Be aware that there are knock off baby carriers out there so look very closely to make sure you're buying the real deal. I once saw a Wildbird Ring Sling at Goodwill for $4.99. I left it and felt like I was leaving a diamond on the beach – hopefully someone who knew what it was snapped it up.

Play Mats and Activity Gyms

Babies spend tons of time on these, but they're essentially padded fabric with hanging toys. Easy to wipe down and usually in great shape but give everything a very close look before buying.

Nursing Pillows

Check the tag, but Boppy and My Brest Friend pillows can often be washed. Check for worn elastic and ensure the cover is included or buy a new one.

Exersaucers and Activity Centers

These are huge and expensive new but babies use them for only a few months. Make sure all parts are present and nothing is broken.

Baby Dishes and Utensils

Plates, bowls, and spoons are fine secondhand. Just inspect for cracks or sharp edges. I often see pristine ezpz mats and bowls when I'm thrifting.

Baby Monitors

Audio monitors are simple and cheap used. Video monitors are trickier – test them before buying to ensure they connect properly.

What You Shouldn't Buy Secondhand

These items pose real safety risks when bought used. I would save my thrift store budget for other things and buy these new.

Car Seats

This is non-negotiable. Car seats expire (usually after 6-10 years), and if a seat has been in any accident (even a minor one), it's compromised. You can't see internal damage. Plus, many secondhand seats are missing instruction manuals, which you need for proper installation. One of my friends almost bought a "great deal" car seat at a garage sale until I pointed out it had expired three years earlier.

Tip: If someone offers you a sketchy car seat, accept it, then use it at the Target Trade In Event to score a coupon. They recycle all of the seats they collect.

Cribs

Modern safety standards for cribs have changed dramatically. Drop-side cribs are banned. Older cribs may have lead paint, loose slats, or recalled parts. Crib hardware can strip or go missing, making them unsafe. If you do buy used, verify it meets current CPSC standards and has never been recalled. Listen, if a friend is going to sell you her Snoo, that's a different story, but these are the areas where I get twitchy if you don't know the history.

Mattresses (Crib or Bassinet)

Mattresses can harbor mold, bacteria, dust mites, and allergens you can't see or clean out. They also break down over time, creating suffocation risks. Again, one of our writers passed along her Newton Baby Mattress to a friend with no issues but be cautious with this one.

Breast Pumps

The motor can harbor milk particles and bacteria you can't sterilize. The FDA regulates breast pumps as single-user items. You can buy new pump parts (flanges, bottles, tubing) for a used pump if it's yours from a previous baby, but don't buy someone else's motor.

Bottle Nipples and Pacifiers

These go directly in your baby's mouth. They're pretty cheap new, so I would just buy them.

Expired Formula or Baby Food

Never buy opened, expired, or improperly stored formula or food. I know it's expensive, but it ain't worth it.

Helmets

Whether bike helmets or medical helmets for flat spots, you can't tell if they've been dropped or damaged internally. One impact compromises the protection.

Drop-Side Cribs

These have been banned since 2011 after dozens of infant deaths. If someone offers you one for free, decline.

Sleep Positioners and Crib Bumpers

The AAP recommends against these due to suffocation risk. They show up at garage sales constantly – skip them.

Pressure-Mounted Baby Gates (Older Models)

Newer pressure gates are safer, but older ones may not meet current safety standards. Hardware-mounted gates are more secure for stairs.

My Thrifting Strategy

I always searched model numbers on cpsc.gov before buying anything with moving parts or safety functions. I joined local mom swap groups where people sold gently used gear cheap. And I learned to move fast – the good stuff at consignment sales goes in the first hour.

The money I saved on clothes, books, and toys let me buy the important safety items new without guilt. My kids never knew the difference, and I probably saved thousands over their baby years.

Bottom line: Thrift the fun stuff. Buy new for anything that keeps your baby safe.

Also check out: Controversial Baby Products: A Safety Guide for Parents