Gift Guide | What to Buy for a Baby Shower

First things first, there’s no such thing as too many muslins. Trust us. Handy for wiping spills, creating privacy whilst nursing, or swaddling baby, this simple saviour is a must-have in any changing bag. These cotton squares are also great for building your own gift box, just add add a teether, a cuddly toy and a cosy blanket too.

Teethers come in all shapes and sizes. Silicone designs with ridged handles make for a satisfying chew and are easy for little hands to hold. Alternatively, choose designs made from sustainably sourced bamboo to soothe and stimulate baby's gums. Whilst it may not be a gift that new parents will be putting to use straight away, they'll be grateful you've thought ahead when the time comes. If you're in search of baby shower presents without the fuss, our ready-made gift sets and hampers are filled to the brim with coordinating pieces, from bathrobes, bears and pyjamas to daytime outfits and soft rattles. Plus, they all come pre-wrapped with a big gold bow; gifting really couldn't be much simpler.

First impressions are everything. If you're not really sure what to bring to the baby shower, a brand-new outfit is a great place to start — just check the sizing marries up with the seasons; the last thing that new parents want to do is spend time exchanging or refunding. Winter babies need to be kept nice and warm, and cosy outfits not only look cute but can help to regulate their body temperature too. Knitted separates will be their best friend, just like Beatrice & George's three-piece set. We love materials such as Merino wool, cashmere and cotton for their soft, moisture-wicking and insulating properties. And as winter melts into summer, loose and lightweight styles lead the way. Bobble hats turn into sun caps woven with UPF50+ protection, and layers turn into breezy shapes with plenty of wiggle room. Burberry's Vintage Check romper is made from cotton with a little bit of stretch to ensure comfort all day long.

Perhaps a changing bag is on their baby shower wish list? Our Best of Baby Changing Bags guide showcases the latest styles and includes everything from practical features to luxury additions that make going from A to B a walk in the park. Be sure to keep those outdoor outings stylish by gifting a soft and sumptuous blanket. Atelier Choux Paris has a natural affinity to the finer things in life, so expect to see premium materials on the care label, beautiful packaging and the most intricate prints. So, that’s the baby looked after, but what about Mum? Pretty wash bags are great for holding all her beauty favourites and they'll be easy to find when it's time for a little self-care. Simply add a few new favourites in there. Little Butterfly London’s gift set includes stretch-mark butter and massage oil packed with natural properties she’ll love.

As the due date gets closer, adding the finishing touches to their nursery or play space will be a welcomed gift for any expectant parent — and a play mat is a great place to start. For the science fans out there, Etta Loves’ sensory play mats are perfect for tummy time. Their monochrome prints have been designed by experts to help stimulate cognitive and sight development with a black-and-white print on one side for newborns and a colourful print on the reverse for when they're over five months old. What's more, the padded organic cotton surface makes for a comfy spot for those first precious moments. We love the brand’s Keith Haring arty collaboration, which is sure to inspire even the tiniest of residents with its graphic illustrations and colour-pop prints. And no play space would be complete without a menagerie of animal friends, courtesy of aden + anais’ jungle-themed mats which come with plenty of tactile textures, detachable mirrors and rattles that the whole family will love. 

If you’re looking for something smaller, why not fill their nursery shelves with Liewood's animal night lights, soft and quirky toys from Aurora and Moulin Roty, and you can’t go far wrong with a photo frame? English Trousseau's silver-plated design is perfect for their very first family photo and it's exclusive to Childrensalon, so you won't find it anywhere else.

Teddy bears first became popular in the early 1900s, and they're one of the only toys that have remained a playroom constant through the centuries. Today, they're something we often treasure forever and are an absolute essential for any new nursery. Do you still have your first bear? Or perhaps you have fond memories of picnics with your childhood teddy? If so, then you'll want to choose the perfect cuddly companion to welcome the little one into the world. No pressure!

So, what do you look for when buying a bear? Cuddle factor has got to be up there, and a friendly face is a must. Powell Craft toys are always dressed to impress, and some even come with their own furry friend to look after. Dedicated followers of fashion will be proud to place a designer bear with matching bow tie on their nursery shelf, whilst traditionalists will adore Beatrice & George’s bear with his silky bow. All that’s left to do is give the bear a name. For everything else, there's always a Childrensalon gift card.