What to bring when visiting a newborn: diapering gifts

What to bring when visiting a newborn: diapering gifts

A good thing to bring a new family is whatever is about to run out, and the easiest way to find out is to ask before you come. Often that means the next diaper size up, wipes or a restock of cream, plus something small for the parent who gave birth.

Ask one quick question first

New parents are busy, so make your question easy to answer with a few words. An open question like what do you need puts the work on them. Offer two options instead:

  • I am coming by on Thursday. Could I bring wipes or a meal, whichever is more useful?
  • What size is the baby in now? I would like to bring the next size up.

Also ask whether they are up for visitors and for how long. When you arrive, text from the door instead of ringing the bell, in case the baby is asleep. If you get no reply, bring something that keeps and leave it at the door.

The next diaper size up

The parents will probably have the current size. What they may not have is the size after it, and babies can move up sooner than expected. A pack of the next size saves a trip when that happens, and an unopened pack stores easily on a shelf.

Find the current size by asking, then check the weight range printed on the pack for the size above it. The diaper sizing guide explains how weight and size match. If the next size up turns out to be size 2, one option is Pampers Baby Dry Diapers, Size 2, 120 Count, and the baby diapers and training pants collection lists other sizes and brands.

If you cannot find out the size, choose a smaller pack one or two sizes above newborn. It is easier to store than a large one, and it is less to return if it turns out to be wrong. If the parents use a particular brand, match it. Babies grow at different rates, so treat the size as a guess and be happy if it is not needed yet.

Wipes and other restocks

Wipes go quickly, and a pack is hard to get wrong. If the parents have a brand or a fragrance-free preference, match it. One option is WaterWipes Sensitive+ Newborn and Baby Wipes, Unscented, 720 Count (12 Packs). See the current price on the product page.

Other restocks that help any new household:

  • A sealed tube of diaper cream, but only if the parents have named the one they use; look for it in the diaper rash creams and ointments collection. The label tells them how to use it, and questions about the baby's skin are for a doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
  • Household basics, such as toilet paper, dish soap and snacks that can be eaten one-handed.
  • Garbage bags, or refills if you know which diaper pail they use.

Small comforts for the changing station

By now the parents know where changes really happen, which may not be where they planned. Small extras that fit around that are easy to carry in:

  • A caddy or tray, so wipes and cream can move between the bedroom and the living room.
  • A portable changing pad for a second changing spot or for the diaper bag.
  • A spare pack of wipes to live in the car or the stroller basket.
  • A spare changing pad cover or a few disposable pads, so there is a clean surface while the other is in the wash.

Skip furniture and anything that needs assembly. A new household does not need a project.

Something for the parent who gave birth

The parent who gave birth is recovering, and visitors often focus entirely on the baby. Something for them is a kind gesture.

  • A meal that can go in the freezer or be eaten with one hand.
  • A water bottle, tea or favourite snacks.
  • An offer to hold the baby while they shower, eat or nap, or to do the dishes or fold laundry.

Postpartum and nursing items are personal, so ask before you buy and do not assume. If the parent mentions bleeding, pain, low mood or trouble feeding, listen kindly, and suggest they speak to their midwife, doctor or nurse. That is not a question for a visitor to answer.

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What not to bring

  • Strong scents, such as perfume, scented candles or heavily scented flowers. Some families prefer none around a newborn.
  • Your cold. If you feel unwell, stay home and visit later. Wash your hands before holding the baby.
  • Piles of newborn-size clothes. The smallest size may be outgrown quickly, and some families have plenty already.
  • Unasked advice, especially on feeding and sleep.
  • Extra visitors, unless the parents have said they are welcome.
  • Anything that needs a reply, a thank-you card or a return.

If you cannot visit in person

Distance does not have to stop you. Send wipes or a pack of the next diaper size to the parents' address, and follow up with a message to say it is coming. We ship within Canada only. Timing depends on the item. Amazon delivers anything tagged Ships via Amazon, in an Amazon box and usually within 2 to 4 business days; the rest is sent by our suppliers in a plain, unmarked box and takes 3 to 5 business days. Check the product page before you promise a date.

Add a short call or video message when the parents are ready, and tell them not to rush to reply.

Common questions

How long should I stay on a first visit?

Ask the parents, and keep it short. A short visit suits many new families, but follow their lead on the day.

Is it all right to bring food?

Yes, but ask about allergies or food restrictions first. A meal that freezes well is easy for a family to use over a few days.

Should I ask to hold the baby?

Wait until the parents offer, and wash your hands first. If they do, hold the baby while they take a break.

Is the next size up always the right gift?

Not always. Check the weight range on the pack, ask the parents what size the baby wears now and be ready for the answer to be that they do not need it yet.

Still deciding what to bring? Ask us through the contact page and we will help you choose a size or a restock that fits. We answer within one business day.