Let’s be real—baby showers are a special kind of party. They’re filled with cute decorations, baby-themed games, and of course, plenty of gifts for the baby (and parents). But have you ever thought about who the baby shower is really for? Is it for the baby who isn’t even born yet? Is it for the mom-to-be, who’s probably juggling excitement and anxiety? Or is it for the parents, including dad, as they prepare for the big change?

Honestly, a baby shower is for everyone involved, especially the parents. Sure, the baby will benefit from the gifts, but the real winners here are the parents, who can cross off many baby essentials from their shopping list. Baby showers are a way for friends and family to show support for the soon-to-be parents. It’s a celebration of a new life and the family that’s about to grow.

But what if you’re invited to a baby shower, and you realize all the good items on the registry are taken? Or maybe what’s left is way over your budget? Fret not! I’ve got a list of functional baby shower gifts that are not only budget-friendly but also surprisingly useful. These are gifts you don’t typically see on registries, but trust me—parents will thank you for them!

1. Toadwill Maternity Seat Belt Adjuster

Let’s start with something you probably don’t see often on a registry—the Toadwill Maternity Seat Belt Adjuster. If you’ve ever been pregnant (or know someone who has), you know how uncomfortable regular seat belts can get as the belly grows. This handy gadget helps adjust the seat belt to sit below the belly, making driving much more comfortable for the mom-to-be. Safety is key, and this seat belt adjuster ensures that both mom and baby are protected in case of sudden stops or accidents.

Why is it a great gift? Because most moms-to-be don’t even know it exists, but once they try it, they won’t want to drive without it. Plus, it’s affordable and can be used throughout the pregnancy, making it a gift that’ll get plenty of use.

2. Hiccapop OmniBoost Travel Booster Seat with Tray

Next up is the Hiccapop OmniBoost Travel Booster Seat with Tray, a lifesaver for parents who are always on the go. This portable booster seat is perfect for meals at grandma’s house, picnics in the park, or even camping trips. It’s lightweight, easy to fold, and comes with a removable tray, making feeding time a breeze wherever you are.

Parents will love how easy it is to clean, and the fact that it can be used both indoors and outdoors. It’s also compact enough to fit in the car, so they’ll never have to worry about lugging around a bulky high chair. Trust me, this is one of those funstional baby shower gifts where parents will say, “I didn’t know I needed this, but I’m so glad I have it!”

3. Momcozy Pregnancy Belly Band

Pregnancy comes with its fair share of aches and pains, especially as the belly grows. Enter the Momcozy Pregnancy Belly Band, a soft and stretchy band that provides support for the growing belly, relieving pressure on the lower back and hips. It’s perfect for moms-to-be who are experiencing discomfort or just need a little extra support during daily activities.

What makes this belly band stand out is its breathable fabric, which makes it comfortable to wear all day. Whether mom is working, walking, or resting, the Momcozy Belly Band can help alleviate some of the strain that comes with carrying a baby. Plus, it’s a gift that shows you care about the mom’s comfort as much as the baby’s.

4. Ziri & Zane Keepsake Memory Book

Sure, babies won’t remember their first steps or their first word, but parents definitely will—and they’ll want to document every milestone. That’s where the Ziri & Zane Keepsake Memory Book comes in. This beautiful, gender-neutral baby book is perfect for recording all those precious moments from the baby’s first year. From birth details to the baby’s first smile, it’s a thoughtful and timeless gift.

Why is it a hit? Because every parent loves to look back on these memories, and this keepsake book makes it easy to record them all in one place. It’s the kind of gift that lasts a lifetime, and it’s perfect for parents who want to capture every little moment of their baby’s journey.

5. Toyk Store Baby Bath Books

Reading to babies is so important, even from a young age, and bath time is the perfect opportunity to introduce them to their first books. The Toyk Store Baby Bath Books are waterproof, soft, and filled with colorful images that will keep babies entertained during bath time. They also make squeaky sounds, which adds to the fun!

These bath books are great for early development, helping babies learn about colors, animals, and sounds. Plus, they’re easy to clean—just rinse them off after the bath, and they’re good to go. They’re a fun and functional baby shower gifts that parents will appreciate, especially when trying to keep a wriggly baby occupied during bath time.

6. The Birth Deck: 50 Ways to Comfort a Woman in Labor by Sara Lyon

Childbirth can be overwhelming, especially for first-time parents, but The Birth Deck by Sara Lyon offers 50 practical ways to comfort a woman in labor. Whether it’s providing breathing techniques, massage tips, or calming exercises, this deck is packed with helpful advice for both moms and their birth partners.

This unique gift is ideal for couples who want to be more prepared for the big day. It’s not just for moms—the birth partner (yes, dads too!) can use this deck to support the mother throughout labor. It’s a thoughtful, empowering gift that shows you’ve put extra thought into helping the parents during one of the most important moments of their lives.

7. 4-in-1 Baby Diaper Bag Backpack

If there’s one thing parents always need, it’s a good diaper bag, and the 4-in-1 Baby Diaper Bag Backpack checks all the boxes. With multiple compartments, insulated pockets for bottles, and enough room to store diapers, wipes, clothes, and toys, this bag makes traveling with a baby so much easier.

The best part? It’s a backpack that can turn into a changing station, a play station and comes with net cover to protect baby. It’s also unisex, making it a great gift for both mom and dad. This bag is designed to last through the baby stage and beyond, so it’s a functional baby shower gift that’ll keep on giving.

8. Bubzi Cry Activated Sleep Soothers

Sleep is a luxury for new parents, and the Bubzi Cry Activated Sleep Soothers can help both baby and parents get more of it. These plush sound machines automatically activate when they detect a baby’s cry, soothing them back to sleep with calming sounds or lullabies. They also double as nightlights, providing a soft glow for nighttime feedings.

Parents will love how this gadget helps the baby self-soothe, giving them those extra few minutes of sleep before having to get up. It’s a lifesaver for those first few months when sleep is hard to come by.

9. Pierri Baby Lounger with Detachable Mosquito Net

The Pierri Baby Lounger is a cozy spot for newborns to rest and relax, and the detachable mosquito net is perfect for keeping bugs away, especially during outdoor naps. It’s soft, portable, and designed to mimic the feeling of being in the womb, which helps newborns feel safe and comfortable.

This lounger is great for supervised naps, tummy time, or just giving the parents a break while the baby chills nearby. It’s a versatile gift that’s perfect for indoor and outdoor use, making it a go-to item for any parent.

10. Bloobloomax Wrist and Foot Rattle Socks

The Bloobloomax Wrist and Foot Rattle Socks are adorable little toys that strap onto a baby’s wrists and feet. They jingle and rattle with every movement, helping babies develop their motor skills and learn about cause and effect. Plus, they’re just plain cute!

These rattles are perfect for early playtime and will keep babies entertained while they learn to move their hands and feet. It’s a simple but fun and functional baby shower gifts that parents will love watching their baby enjoy.

11. Splashin’kids Inflatable Tummy Time Water Mat

Tummy time is essential for a baby’s development, and the Splashin’kids Inflatable Tummy Time Water Mat makes it way more fun. Filled with water and colorful floating shapes, this mat encourages babies to reach and grab, helping them strengthen their neck and core muscles.

Parents will appreciate how this mat keeps the baby engaged while making tummy time a little less of a chore. It’s easy to set up and even easier to clean, making it a practical and fun gift.

12. Vicks 3-in-1 SleepyTime Humidifier

Babies are notorious for getting stuffy noses, and a good humidifier can make a world of difference. The Vicks 3-in-1 SleepyTime Humidifier not only adds moisture to the air but also acts as a nightlight and an essential oil diffuser. It’s perfect for keeping the baby’s room comfortable and soothing them to sleep.

This is a thoughtful gift that parents might not think to put on their registry, but they’ll be so grateful to have it when their little one is congested or having trouble sleeping.

13. Frida Baby Medicine Dispenser

Giving medicine to a baby can be tricky, but the Frida Baby Medicine Dispenser makes it easier and less stressful. It’s designed like a pacifier, so the baby sucks on it while the medicine is slowly dispensed. No more messes or spit-ups!

Parents will love how this simple gadget takes the fuss out of giving medicine, making it a practical and thoughtful gift.

14. Dreft Baby Gift Set

Babies are messy—there’s no way around it. The Dreft Baby Gift Set includes laundry detergent, stain remover, an all-purpose cleaner, and a stain remover pen, all specifically designed for baby clothes and items. It’s gentle on sensitive skin but tough on stains, which parents will appreciate during those blowout diaper moments.

This gift set is a practical lifesaver that every parent needs, even if they don’t know it yet. It’s one of those gifts that will definitely get used, making it a smart choice for any baby shower.

The Perfect Gift for Every Parent

Finding the perfect baby shower gift doesn’t have to be stressful, even if all the top registry items are gone or out of your price range. These functional baby shower gifts are affordable, practical, and most importantly, helpful for both baby and parents. Whether it’s a seat belt adjuster for the mom-to-be or a sound machine to help the baby sleep, these gifts show that you’ve thought outside the box.

So next time you’re shopping for a baby shower, skip the usual suspects and go for one of these unique and functional baby shower gifts. Trust me, the parents will be thanking you long after the party is over!

Looking for more gift ideas? Check out this post on these interactive STEM toys that will help reduce screen time.