How Much to Spend on a Baby Shower Gift (and Other Baby Gifts)
There is no official number. Here is a simple way to set your own budget without feeling cheap or overspending.
In this guide · 7
Short answer: there is no correct amount. Spend what is comfortable for you, and let closeness to the parents guide it: a little more for close family and best friends, a modest gift or a shared group gift for coworkers and distant acquaintances. A thoughtful, useful gift from the registry is never an embarrassing one, whatever it cost.
Three things that should set your budget
- Your own finances. Parents would rather receive a small gift from someone who is stretched than hear you went into debt for them.
- How close you are. Immediate family and closest friends often spend more; colleagues, neighbours and extended family usually spend less.
- Local custom. Norms differ between countries and families, and in some communities gifts are money or gold rather than objects. If you are unsure, ask a relative of the parents what is usual.
A simple way to think about it
| Your relationship | A sensible approach |
|---|---|
| Grandparent, sibling, best friend | One bigger item from the registry, or a share of a big one such as a car seat or pram |
| Close friend or family friend | A mid-range registry item, or a few small practical items |
| Coworker or acquaintance | One small item, or chip in to a group gift |
| Invited but can't attend | Same as if you came; send it, or just a card if money is tight |
| Second or third baby | Small and practical: consumables, or whatever the parents say they need |
Pick your own numbers for each row. What matters is that the gift matches your closeness and your means, not that it matches a figure from the internet.
Group gifts take the pressure off
Big registry items are the ones that sit unbought, because nobody wants to pay for them alone. Several people sharing one is a normal, welcome solution, especially at work or among cousins. Agree who buys it, then mark it as given so nobody doubles up. For office parties see how to plan a baby shower at work.
Shower gift, then a newborn gift?
You do not owe two gifts. If you gave at the shower, nothing more is expected. If you are meeting the baby for the first time, a small extra is a kind gesture and never required. Practical help, such as a cooked meal, is often worth more than another outfit; see what to send a new mum on delivery day.
Buy from the registry when there is one
A registry removes the guesswork: you see what the parents actually need, at prices from small to large, and you can mark your gift so it is not duplicated. If you are the parent setting one up, include items at a range of prices so guests with any budget can join in. Our baby registry etiquette guide covers sharing it politely. Hosting in Britain? See the baby shower gift list for the UK, from any shop.
What not to do
- Don't ask the parents how much others are spending.
- Don't leave the price tag as a signal either way; gift receipts are the kind option.
- Parents: don't compare gifts or skip thank-yous; see thank-you messages for baby shower gifts.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I spend on a baby shower gift?
Whatever fits your budget and your closeness to the parents. Close family often spend more, coworkers and acquaintances less. There is no official amount.
Is it okay to give a cheap baby shower gift?
Yes. A useful, small gift from the registry, such as nappies or wipes, is appreciated far more than an expensive item the parents did not need.
Do I need to bring a gift if I can't attend the shower?
It is a kind gesture but not a rule. If you can, send something small from the registry, or a warm card if money is tight.
How much should I spend on a second baby gift?
Less is normal. Parents usually already own the big items, so small practical gifts or consumables are welcome. Many hosts hold a smaller shower, often called a sprinkle.
Is a group gift acceptable at work?
Yes, and it is common. Pool money for one larger registry item and mark it as given so nobody buys it twice.