It is important to remember that parents appreciate practicality and quality when putting together baby hampers. Think about what they will use, not things that clutter their home.
You will know the person you are giving it to well enough to have an idea of their needs or wants. Keep it surprise-worthy by following these tips for creating the perfect hamper.
The "Four Gifts" Rule
There aren't any hard and fast rules for creating a personalised baby gifts. However, it is important to think about what you like and how much money you can spend. The "four-gift rule" is what it's called. This is a great way to plan a thoughtful hamper that parents and babies will enjoy and use.
Consider these things when planning a baby hamper based on the "four-gift rule".
- What they want (e.g. A toy/baby gym for them
- What they need (e.g. nappies/skincare items)
- What to wear (e.g. clothing/bibs/hair clips/shoes)
- A book to read (e.g. You could also choose to read a book or a book record/milestone or picture card in the context of a baby hamper.
If you are making a large gift basket, you can include multiple items for each subject. You can try to hit at least three categories if you have a limited budget. You could buy a teether toy, a dress, and moisturizer. The moisturizer could be used as a nappy cream or as a gift for new parents.
TIP: Don't believe that bigger is better. You won't like your friend or loved one if they use low-quality, chemical-laden body lotions bought at a discount store. Instead of filling your hamper full of low-quality items, consider a handful of quality products that mums and babies will love and appreciate. It is possible to introduce your baby to a brand or product they love and will want to continue using. Brownie points for you! Look for organic fabrics such as 100% cotton or bamboo linen, clothes, and toys that are sustainably made.
Mum Gifts
You could include a few items for dads or mums in your hamper design, as we have. Either a treat or something useful she might need (like dry shampoo powder/nipple balm/moisturizer/exfoliant). After going through pregnancy, birth, and recovery, mums also need support.
Siblings
You might consider giving a gift to older siblings if you are making a hamper for a baby. This is an optional addition. If you have the money and time or are close to the mom you are gifting it to, it's a great idea. You could add a few extra items like colouring books and pencils, play dough, or a toy to let them know that you are sending your congratulations.
Here are some ideas for items that you can include in a hamper if you're making one for mom and baby:
- Large box of essentials
- Nappies (find out if your parents prefer cloth nappies or disposable nappies).
- Nappy balm
- Bibs
- Baby-safe shampoo / lotion / moisturizer / nipple Balm (for nursing mums)
- Baby wipes
- Baby nail clippers (good baby shops will sell essentials grooming/medicine kits for babies)
- Baby thermometer
- Baby rug/muslin/wrap
- Baby brush
- For out-and-about, change your travel mat
- Baby bag
- Singlets / clothes/ socks
- Baby off-the-shelf medicines such as Panadol and gripe water
Food Preparation
Another twist: You might consider a gift basket that you can give to the baby when he or she is three months old or twelve months old if you are attending a baby shower. This way, parents don't get a lot of baby clothes or other items that they don't use or wear. Their clothes need to be resized three to four times in the first year.
