A new baby is a big deal, and finding a gift that says so can be surprisingly hard. The tiny outfits are cute, but they're outgrown in weeks. The gifts that new parents tend to remember are the useful ones: the things that make the 3am nappy change a bit easier, or give them ten minutes to themselves.
Here are some ideas that are practical, thoughtful and a bit lighter on waste.
1. Nappy-change essentials that don't run out
New parents go through a lot of wipes. ZERO Baby Wipes are a useful, slightly unexpected gift: dry wipes made from timber viscose (a fibre made from wood pulp), with nothing added. Just add water.
- No preservatives or fragrance, because they're dry.
- OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 Class 1 certified, meaning the material has been independently tested for harmful substances to the strictest class, for baby articles.
- Reusable and machine washable, so they can be rinsed and used again for everyday messes. For nappy changes, a fresh wipe each time is best.
Pair them with a small spray bottle for the change table and you've got a gift that'll get used every single day.
2. Nappy waste bags
Not glamorous, we know. But anyone who's changed a nappy on the go will thank you. ZERO Nappy Waste Bags are certified home compostable and come 90 to a pack, so they'll last a while in the nappy bag.
3. A kitchen kit for easy meals
The first few weeks are a blur, and the best gift can be food. If you're dropping off a meal, freezer portions or a lunchbox of snacks, the Zero Waste Kitchen Family Kit is a nice way to wrap it up. Wrap leftovers in ZERO Cling Wrap, made from bioplastic and certified home compostable, or portion things into Resealable Food Storage Bags, which are certified home compostable and freezer-friendly.
4. Something just for Mum
A lot of baby gifts are for the baby. A gift that's just for the person recovering from birth goes a long way. A few ideas:
- A comfy robe or soft pyjamas that are easy to feed in.
- A big water bottle. Feeding is thirsty work.
- A simple self-care treat. ZERO Makeup Wipes are reusable dry wipes made from the same timber viscose as our Baby Wipes, handy when there's only time for a quick refresh. Or go all out with the makeup kit.
5. Clothes in the next size up
Newborn sizes get outgrown fast and new parents often receive lots of them. Clothes in 3 to 6 or 6 to 12 months will still be useful later. Soft, breathable natural fibres are popular choices.
6. A good blanket or wrap
A soft, breathable wrap or blanket gets used for months. If it's for a newborn, check current safe sleeping guidance before choosing, or ask the parents what they'd like.
7. Cloth nappies
Some families are keen to try cloth nappies, and a starter set can be a generous gift. It's worth asking first, as it's very much a personal choice and depends on the household's routine.
8. The gift of time
Honestly, this is often the best one. Offer to do a load of washing, walk the dog, mind older siblings, or drop off dinner and leave. No product required.
Putting it together
A little bundle of Baby Wipes, Nappy Waste Bags and a home-cooked meal wrapped in compostable cling wrap is practical, thoughtful and won't end up at the back of a cupboard. Everything they need. And nothing they don't.
FAQ
What do new parents actually need?
Practical things that get used every day, like wipes and nappy bags, and help with everyday jobs like meals and washing.
Are ZERO Baby Wipes a good newborn gift?
They're a useful one: dry timber viscose wipes with nothing added, certified to OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 Class 1. Just add water.
What's a good gift for the mum, not the baby?
Comfortable clothes, a big water bottle, a simple self-care treat, or an offer of practical help.
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