How Much to Spend on Baby Shower Gift: What’s Right for Your Budget and Relationship?

Are you stuck trying to figure out how much cash to drop on a baby shower gift? You’re not alone! This makes so many people sweat. They worry they’ll look cheap if they don’t spend enough or seem like they’re showing off if they spend too much.Think about this – what if you show up with a tiny gift when everyone else brings big boxes? Talk about awkward! Or worse, what if your budget is tight but you feel forced to overspend just to “keep up”?Don’t worry! I’ll help you nail the perfect gift amount based on who you are to the mom-to-be. Plus, I’ll share smart ideas for every budget that will make the parents smile big.

How Much Should You Spend? Quick Guide by Relationship

Your link to the new parents makes all the difference in what you spend. Here’s the real deal:

Most people in the U.S. spend $25-$100 on baby shower gifts. The most common amount? About $30-$50.

Big Factors That Change What You Should Spend

Not sure where you fit in that chart? Think about these things:

• How close are you? The better you know them, the more you might spend
• What can you afford? Don’t go into debt for a gift!
• First baby or second? First babies often get bigger gifts
• Where do you live? City folks often spend more than rural friends
• Going to many showers? Spend less at each one
• What’s on their wish list? Registry items have set prices

Remember – a thoughtful gift beats an expensive one any day!

Top Gift Picks for Every Budget

Under $25: Small But Mighty

• Cute baby books (babies need their own little library!)
• Soft onesies with funny sayings
• Bath time goodies
• Teething toys
• Pacifier clips (moms love these lifesavers!)

$25-$50: Practical Mid-Range Gifts

• Diaper fund cash (trust me, they’ll thank you later!)
• Cute outfit sets
• Swaddle blankets
• Personalized Memory Keepsake with baby’s birth date
• Baby care kits

$50-$100: Step-Up Gifts

• Diaper bag
• Baby carrier
• Mother and Child Projection Necklace (mom will love this!)
• Baby monitor
• Gift cards to baby stores

$100+: Big-Ticket Items

• Stroller
• Crib stuff
• Car seat
• High chair
• Custom Photo Keepsake Jewelry to mark this special time

Gift Rules That Make Sense

Should I Buy From Their Registry?

Yes! Parents make wish lists for a reason. They picked stuff they really need. When you buy from their list:

• You know they’ll use it
• You won’t give them double of something
• You can still pick items in your budget
• They’ll be super happy

Is Cash OK?

Cash is more than OK – it’s often the best gift! New parents face tons of costs. Money lets them buy what they need when they need it.Make cash gifts feel special by:

• Putting it in a cute baby card
• Saying it’s for diapers or a special item
• Adding a small token gift like a book

Group Gifts: Smart Way to Go Big

Join forces with friends to buy something big! This lets you:

• Get an amazing gift they’ll love
• Stay in your personal budget
• Show you worked together to do something special

Text one friend to start a group chat. Pick something nice from their wish list. Split the cost. Done!

Special Baby Gift Cases

Virtual Baby Showers

The same rules apply! Just because you’re on Zoom doesn’t mean you should spend less. Ship your gift ahead or send an e-gift card.

Second Baby “Sprinkles”

For second or third babies, you can spend a bit less. Parents have most big items already. Focus on:

• Diapers (always needed!)
• Clothes in bigger sizes
• Small toys for the new baby
• Heart-Shaped Crystal Pendant with Custom Photo to celebrate the growing family

Twins or More

For multiple babies, it’s nice to spend a bit more or give two of the same gift. Parents of twins need extra help!

Can’t Go to the Party?

Still send a gift if you’re close to them. You might spend a bit less since you save on travel costs, but show you care with something thoughtful.

Questions People Ask A Lot

“Is one big gift better than lots of small ones?”

One nice gift is often better than many tiny things. It feels more special and is easier to open at the party.

“Should godparents spend more?”

Yes, if you can. As a godparent, you have a special role in this child’s life. Your gift often reflects that bond.

“What if I can’t spend as much as others?”

That’s 100% OK! A $15 gift picked with love beats an expensive gift with no thought. Add a sweet note about why you picked it or share a tip for new parents.

“What if there’s no registry?”

Ask the host what the parents need. Or stick with safe bets like:

• Books
• Clothes in bigger sizes (everyone gives newborn size!)
• Gift cards
• Diapers
• Personalized Heart Projection Necklace for mom to keep baby close to her heart

“Is it weird to ask what others are spending?”

Yes, a bit. But you can ask the host: “What kinds of gifts are people bringing?” That gives you hints without being too nosy.

What Really Matters Most

At the end of the day, baby showers celebrate new life. Your gift shows you care, but the price tag isn’t what parents will remember.They’ll remember you being there. They’ll remember your kind words. They’ll remember how you supported them as they started this wild ride called parenting.Buy what fits your budget. Add a dash of thought. Write a note from your heart.That’s the perfect baby shower gift – no matter how much you spend.Remember this: The best gift isn’t the most expensive one. It’s the one given with the most love.