Practical Baby Gifts from Lifestyle Expert

As more friends and family members welcome newborns into their lives, lifestyle expert Natalie Dixon shares her go-to recommendations for practical baby gifts that prioritize functionality over novelty, drawing from her observations of the challenges faced by new parents in those initial, often overwhelming weeks.

Dixon, a reporter specializing in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle topics, emphasizes selecting items that address everyday needs like soothing fussy infants and streamlining routines. "When my friends started having babies, I realised quickly that I didn't want to show up with just something cute," she said. "I wanted to bring gifts that would genuinely make those early weeks easier." Her curated list focuses on versatile, durable products that support sleep, comfort, and convenience, based on feedback from parents navigating the unpredictability of newborn care.

Topping her selections is the Etta Loves x Liberty sensory muslin swaddle in an oversized design, priced at £22. This lightweight blanket simplifies swaddling for inexperienced caregivers, thanks to its forgiving size and soft, textured fabric that provides a calming sensory experience for newborns. Dixon notes...