15 Unique Off-the-Registry Baby Shower Gifts

For those who have been invited to a baby shower and are hoping to give a gift that's as original and special as the mom-to-be, they might not want to shop off the gift registry. Instead, why not dazzle a pal (and fellow guests) with a little something creative? Fortunately, there are plenty of presents out there that make life easier, happier, and even more fashionable for new parents. Take a look at some outside-the-box gift ideas that mom will adore. 

More from CafeMom: 7 Baby Shower Rules Worth Breaking

Perhaps the worst has happened. A close friend is having a baby shower and there was no time to buy a gift on her registry. What to do? Well, we have got it covered. Whether one is looking to be a little different or get something maybe no one else will buy, we found practical and unique gift ideas that are perfect for a mom-to-be. These gifts are sure to impress any friend or family member pregnant with baby number 1, 2, or 3 (or more!) and won't end up as something they'd throw in the return pile. 

More from CafeMom: 11 Moms Share the Weirdest Gifts They Got at Their Baby Showers

We even got real moms to get in on the action! We asked which gifts they wish they'd gotten, and the answers they told us are doable for any person who wants to think outside the box. 

baby shower gifts
iStock.com/olesiabilkei, Blue Apron, nenetus/Shutterstock

Mom-to-Be Massage

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nenetus/Shutterstock

"I always try to get something small off the registry, but then I also get something for the mother-to-be," explains event planner Alexandria Proko of Alexandria Catherine Events. "Once she has her baby, it's harder to squeeze in self-love and pampering, so I'll often do a massage or manicure/pedicure gift certificates."

More from CafeMom: 17 Creative Baby Shower Themes

Birth Photography

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Daniel Jedzura/Shutterstock

Whether this is mom's first or fifth delivery, she may want to capture the amazing moment her baby enters the world or the days after. Lisa Peters, mom of three, says she loves giving the gift of photography and presents friends with a gift certificate to a birth and family photographer so they can choose when and where they'd like to capture their growing family in stunning images they'll always treasure.

SoundBub Portable Speaker

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wavhello.com

Soothe, stimulate, and connect with baby in the nursery and on the go with recorded messages from friends and family or songs from baby's favorite playlist. Or, just let your little one bliss out to white noise. The adorable device can be hooked right onto a crib, car seat, or stroller, offering serenity to mama and baby.

Speaker, $49.99; Wavhello

More from CafeMom: 11 Unconventional Baby Shower Ideas That May Ease Your Stress

Food Service

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Blue Apron

"Cooking and eating healthy are really important to me," says Jane L., mom of one. "Knowing that, a friend got me a month's worth of meals from Blue Apron. I didn't have to go grocery shopping. I didn't even have to measure anything. And I got to pick what I wanted to eat. It was the best and definitely something I'd give to a friend."

Blue Apron Family Plan, from $69.92; Blue Apron

More from CafeMom: 10 Super Thoughtful Meals to Make for Your Friend Who Just Had a Baby (PHOTOS)

Stylish Diaper Bag

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Scout

Who says diaper bags can't be stylish? Scout's Pocket Rocket boasts a half-dozen spaces to stash bottles and more. Available in stunning patterns, these bags are both functional and durable, and can be monogrammed to personalize the present for mom or baby.

Tote bag, $46; Scout

Cleaning Service

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Dima Sidelnikov/Shutterstock

"When I had my first child, someone gave me a gift certificate for one free housecleaning and it was seriously the best gift I got," recalls Donna J., mom of two. "I put my baby in the stroller, went for a long walk, and came home to a clean house. I was so happy, I felt like crying."

Eco-Friendly Robe

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Doie Lounge

Just because it's a baby shower, all the gifts don't have to be for baby! This eco-friendly and luxuriously soft robe from Doie Lounge is perfect for the hospital stay and beyond.

Robe, $136; Doie Lounge

Diaper Service

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George Rudy/Shutterstock

No new parent wants to have to keep running out for new nappies. Giving the gift of a diaper service can be an absolute lifesaver for moms and dads. Placing an online order allows parents to choose their favorite brand and size and it's delivered right to their doorstep. (Now if only someone would come take out the garbage!)

Diaper Service, 3 months/$199; Incredibundles

Baby Care Timer

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ToyRUs

Between feeding, changing, and nap time schedules for baby, moms are constantly multitasking. But moms, dads, and caregivers can get help in the memory department from the Itzbeen Pocket Nanny Baby Care Timer. This easy-to-use gadget allows you to set timers for changing, feeding, sleeping, and more. Let's be honest: When you're sleep-deprived, every little bit helps!

Itzbeen Pocket Nanny Baby Care Timer, $19.98; ToysRUs

More from CafeMom: 7 Baby Shower Rules Worth Breaking

Bump Boxes

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BumpBoxes

Available for each trimester, Bump Boxes incorporate some of a mom-to-be's favorite things: body lotions, lip balm, and plenty of other customizable treats. Spoil your pal with all the things she loves but wouldn't necessarily buy for herself. You can even select one for the "fourth" trimester, when she's home with baby and could use a little self-care.

Bump Boxes, starting at $39.99; BumpBoxes

More from CafeMom: Our 12 Most-Pinned Pregnancy Tips of All Time

Air Purifiers

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Amazon

Parents want peace of mind knowing that their little ones are breathing the cleanest air possible. Why not give them that gift? Many air purifiers capture 99.97 percent of airborne pollutants, dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens. 

Winx Air Purifier, $207.99; Amazon

Stylish PJs

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Belabumbum

Moms want to be comfortable and stylish before and after baby, and this loungewear accomplishes both. Easy pull-aside nursing access means mama doesn't have to change or go topless while feeding baby. They're available in fashionable prints and are dressy enough to wear as well-wishers come to meet the new little one!

Pajamas, $79; Belabumbum

Wiggletot Diaper Changer

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Wiggletot

Anyone who's ever changed a squirming baby knows how difficult and messy it can be. This Wiggletot Diaper Changer features a changing pad cover and detachable vest, which saves parents and caregivers time and trouble with every use. (It was invented by a mom — go figure!) 

Changing pad, $29.99; Wiggletot

Zip Sheets

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Amazon

When it comes to changing crib sheets, the struggle is real! It's almost like they're alive and trying their best to get away from you and come untucked. These sheets zip around the mattress so parents don't have to worry about their coming undone and possibly tangling up baby. And the best part? They're 100 percent organic cotton.

Zip-On Sheets, $99.98 (set of 3); Amazon

SwaddleTee

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Amazon

The art of swaddling can flummox even the most prepared parents. This SwaddleTee keeps baby wrapped, warm, and cozy all night long. The zippered pouch allows you to change baby without unswaddling. We love it!

SwaddleTee, $29.99; Amazon