The Grandmother’s Guide to Buying the Perfect Baby Gift – Tots on the Move

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The Grandmother’s Guide to Buying the Perfect Baby Gift

The Grandmother’s Guide to Buying the Perfect Baby Gift

A new baby is on the way—and not just any baby. Your grandbaby.

For months, you’ve watched your daughter (or daughter-in-law) prepare for this life-changing moment. Maybe you’ve seen her glowing with excitement, or maybe you’ve seen her exhausted, a little overwhelmed, and quietly worrying if she’s truly ready.

And now, as a grandmother-to-be, you feel something deep inside:

💛 You want to help. 
💛 You want to support her in the best way possible.
💛 You want to give something meaningful, something she’ll truly use and appreciate.

But then the doubts creep in…

🧐 “What does she actually need?”
🧐 “I don’t want to buy the wrong thing.”
🧐 “I just want to make her life easier—not more stressful.”

You’re not alone. We hear this all the time from grandmothers who want to give the perfect gift but feel a little unsure about where to start. That’s why we created this guide—to help you choose something that will genuinely support her new journey into motherhood. 


1. The #1 Rule: Buy What She Wants (Not What You Think She Needs!) 

As much as you might love a beautifully hand-knitted baby blanket or an adorable pram suit, the best gift is the one she actually wants.

Many mums-to-be have spent hours researching baby gear, reading reviews, and carefully selecting the items they need. Chances are, she already has a list in mind.

✅ How to Get It Right: 

✔ Ask her directly: “Is there something specific you’d love for the baby?”
✔ If she’s shared a wishlist or product link, stick to it.
✔ If you’re unsure, a gift card to a trusted baby retailer (like us!) lets her choose exactly what she needs.

2. The Most Useful Baby Gifts (That She’ll Actually Use)

Some baby gifts get used every single day. Others… sit in the corner untouched. Here are the most practical gifts that new mums truly appreciate: 

🌟 A High-Quality Travel System (Stroller + Car Seat) → If she hasn’t picked one yet, a lightweight, durable, and easy-to-fold pushchair will be a lifesaver.

🌟 A Comfortable, Safe Cot or Crib → Babies sleep a LOT in the early months. A sturdy, well-made crib ensures peaceful nights for both mum and baby.

🌟 A Next-to-Me Bedside Crib → Helps new mums comfort and feed their baby at night without getting out of bed.

🌟 A Reliable Car Seat → A must-have for hospital discharge and every journey beyond. Safety certifications are key—choose one that meets UK safety standards (R129/i-Size).

🌟 A Baby Monitor → The gift of peace of mind. Many new mums appreciate a monitor that lets them keep an eye (or ear) on their sleeping baby from another room.

🌟 A Gift Card for Baby Essentials → Sometimes, the best gift is the freedom to choose.

3. What NOT to Buy (To Save You Time & Money) 

Some gifts seem like a great idea… until they don’t get used. Here’s what many parents tell us they wish people hadn’t bought:

🚫 Too Many Newborn Clothes → Babies outgrow newborn sizes in weeks (sometimes even days!). A few outfits are fine, but avoid buying piles of newborn clothing.

🚫 Fancy Baby Shoes → They’re adorable, but babies don’t wear shoes until they start walking.

🚫 Nappy Disposal Systems → Sounds convenient, but most parents just use a regular bin with a sealed bag.

🚫 Soft Toys & Blankets → While sentimental, many parents receive too many of these and end up storing them away.

🚫 Large Baby Equipment She Didn’t Ask For → A giant baby swing or high chair might be useful, but only if she has space for it. 

4. How to Show Your Love Beyond the Gift

Sometimes, the most meaningful support isn’t a product—it’s you

💛 Offer to help with nursery setup (assembling the crib, stroller, or furniture).
💛 Cook freezer-friendly meals she can eat once the baby arrives.
💛 Be there to listen without judgment—new motherhood can feel overwhelming.

A thoughtful gift + your loving support will mean the world to her. 

5. Not Sure What to Buy? We’re Here to Help! 

At Tots on the Move, we understand that choosing the right baby gift can feel like a big decision. That’s why we offer:

✔ Expert-curated baby essentials—handpicked for durability, safety, and ease of use.
✔ Fast delivery—so she gets her gift on time.
✔ A hassle-free return policy—in case something isn’t quite right.

💡 Need help choosing the perfect gift?

Browse our best-selling travel systems, car seats, and nursery must-haves.

Or, if you’d like personalised recommendations, contact us today—we’d love to help! 😊