The Best New Dad Gifts for Any First-Time or Expectant Father
May 9, 2021
During pregnancy, moms-to-be tend to get a lot of attention, including a literal shower of gifts. Then when baby arrives, they’re pretty much the star of the show. Dads, despite the obviously essential part they played in all this, can be overlooked in the midst of all this excitement. So take a moment to congratulate the new or expectant father in your life with a thoughtful new dad gift.
The best gifts for new dads can be a practical present to help him navigate the early days of parenthood, a sweet keepsake to mark this major life event or even a luxury gift that appeals to his unique sense of style. Whether you’re shopping for a first Father’s Day gift, a birthday or holiday present or just want to send him a little something to celebrate the new arrival, there are options to suit every type of event and father-to-be. Unsure of where to begin your search? We’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up the best new dad gifts that are sure to hit the right note.
The ultimate gift for new dads? An uninterrupted night’s sleep of course. While we can’t guarantee he’ll get a full eight hours of shut-eye with a newborn at home, this sleep mask will definitely help matters. It’s made from a cloud-soft bamboo fabric that’s breathable and gentle on skin. Plus, the 360 wraparound design fully blocks out light and reduces noise.
Buy it: Infinity Pillow Bamboo Sleep Mask, $15, InfinityPillow.com
Some of the best new father gifts are ones they won’t want to stop using, and loungewear definitely fits the bill. After all, having a new baby means spending way more time at home. We’ll bet Dad won’t even want to change out of these comfy pants to toss them in the laundry.
Buy it: Tommy John Second Skin Lounge Pants, $68, Nordstorm.com
Allbirds are known for their super-comfortable shoes, and their latest style is no exception. The Wool Piper sneaker is a classic silhouette made with natural materials in the brand’s signature merino wool fabric. Best of all, the versatile sneakers are machine-washable, which is a major plus when it comes to dad-to-be gifts that’ll be used around baby.
Buy it: Allbirds Men’s Wool Pipers, $95, Allbirds.com
Now more than ever, it’s important to keep surfaces and objects clean and sanitized. And while we won’t go into just how many germs are lingering on phones, we’ll simply recommend this innovative and compact smartphone charger as a great gift for new dads. It zaps away 99.99 percent of germs while charging the phone, and also works as an amplifier.
Buy it: PhoneSoap 3 Smartphone UV Sanitizer, $80, PhoneSoap.com
When you have a little kid, one thing is certain: Anything can happen. Guys who pride themselves on being prepared will love having a Victorinox Swiss Army Knife on hand. It’s a multi-purpose tool with seven functions, including tweezers and toenail scissors (hey, you never know). And with all the baby gear to unbox and assemble, it’s a dad-to-be gift that’s sure to get plenty of use.
Buy it: Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD Pocket Knife, $17, SwissArmy.com
One of the best new dad gifts is one that keeps on giving, and Trade Coffee’s awesome subscription program is a fun way for new parents to get their caffeine fix delivered straight to their home. They have 400 types of coffee from across the US, and Dad can take a short quiz to figure out his order based on his preferences. And since orders can be adjusted at any time, Dad can go bold with his coffee picks just in time for baby’s next sleep regression.
Buy it: Trade Coffee Gift Subscription, starting from $60, TradeCoffee.com
Getting out of the house with baby in tow is no walk in the park. You need a lot of gear for any unexpected outfit changes or other mishaps that may arise. That’s why the pocket blanket is one of our favorite new dad gifts. It’ll take up little space in their diaper bag—it’s smaller than a smartphone!—but expands into a water-repellent blanket that’s perfect for outdoor outings.
Buy it: Matador Pocket Blanket, $30, TheGrommet.com
If Dad bundled up baby and got to the car only to realize he’s still in his slippers, he wouldn’t be the first—which is why outdoor slippers make for classic new dad gifts. These outdoor UGG slippers are slippers and shoes all in one. He can kick back at home in supple, wool-lined suede slippers and then dip out to run an errand without changing, thanks to the high-traction rubber sole.
Buy it: UGG Scuff Romeo II, $100, Zappos.com
We’re not gonna lie and say life with a newborn can’t be stressful. Thankfully, a total body massage roller is one of the best gifts for new dads that’ll help him work out all his kinks. Designed for use on the arms, legs and back, this roller has four spinning massagers and comes with a downloadable exercise guide.
Buy it: Gaiam Restore Total Body Massage Roller, $20, Gaiam.com
Looking up baby’s zodiac sign is kind of fun. Seeing exactly how the sky looked on the day his little one was born? Amazing. A My Sky Moment map displays how the stars were aligned overhead at any location, on any date. It comes custom framed or can be created on canvas for a striking new dad gift.
Buy it: My Sky Moment Star Map, starting from $50, MySkyMoment.com
Every father needs something to haul baby’s stuff in, making a diaper backpack a go-to for dad-to-be gifts. This cool option has plenty of space to carry the essentials while still traveling light, with a diaper changing pad, reusable food tower and insulated pockets for bottles. The best part? This bag is made from recycled plastic bottles, making it the perfect gift for eco-conscious papas. Plus, with a look this sharp, no one will guess he’s packing baby gear.
Buy it: Skip Hop Go Envi Eco-Friendly Diaper Backpack, $80, SkipHop.com
Gravity blankets have received a lot of buzz over the last few years for their stress-reducing and sleep-promoting benefits. Less anxiety and more shut-eye? No wonder we think the cozy robe version is one of the best gifts for new dads. The weighted collar is designed to reduce stress and boost calmness—just what first-time dads need.
Buy it: Gravity X Modernist Fleece Weighted Robe, $130, GravityBlankets.com
Coffee is the elixir of life for sleep-deprived new parents, so any new dad gifts that make it easy to enjoy it are pure genius. Case in point: This stainless steel, dishwasher-safe travel mug, which uses double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks warm. So even if he gets distracted by baby’s cries, a warm cup of joe will always be waiting for him.
Buy it: YETI Rambler 14 oz Mug with Magslider Lid, $30, Yeti.com
As experienced dads can tell you, it’s hard to get uninterrupted time when you have a baby, especially a newborn. But with this lightweight portable speaker, a new dad can keep listening wherever baby’s schedule takes him, whether it’s attached to the stroller for a walk, floating in the tub during bathtime (yes, it’s waterproof!) or outside on the porch while baby’s down for a nap. When it comes to new father gifts, this speaker will be a big hit.
Buy it: Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Portable Bluetooth Speaker, $69, Walmart.com
Help a new dad remember what day—or even month it is—with a calendar that doubles as a picture frame. He’ll never get tired of looking at pictures of baby, and you can order a new refill pack each year.
Buy it: Artifact Uprising Wood Calendar, starting from $25, ArtifactUprising.com
We’re all guilty of taking photos on our phone that we never do anything with. A printer that can whip out high-quality photos straight from a smartphone is one of the most thoughtful first-time dad gifts. And since it can fit in his pocket, he can send visitors home with a souvenir of baby.
Buy it: Kodak Step Instant Mobile Photo Printer, $70, KodakPhotoPlus.com
For first-time dad gifts with a sense of humor (and style), you can’t go wrong with a funny daddy and me shirt set. These battery charged, battery drained T-shirts say it all. Made of 100 percent cotton, they’ll keep Dad and baby comfy, even when the little one is raring to go and Dad’s ready for bed.
Buy it: Threadrock Full and Low Battery Infant Bodysuit & Men’s T-Shirt Matching Set, $25, Etsy.com
Parachute is known for making some of the softest sheets and homewares around, and these luxurious, quick-drying, 100 percent Turkish cotton towels are no exception. It’s the perfect gift for new dads to wrap around themselves after unwinding with a long hot shower.
Buy it: Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Towels, starting from $9, Parachute.com
New dad gifts that capture the joyful journey of becoming a father are sure to tug at the heartstrings. These customizable maps (available for every state) are a perfect way to showcase favorite family photos. Add a frame of your choice for a personalized present he can’t help but love.
Buy it: Minted Love Location Print, starting from $29, Minted.com
Babywearing works wonders for lots of families—it keeps baby close and your arms free. Dads that like to stay cozy while wearing a baby carrier without the added bulk of a jacket will be delighted with this gift. On its own, it’s a sporty men’s hoodie. But add the zip-on pouch, designed to fit comfortably over a baby carrier, and it’s a way for Dad and baby to keep warm while on-the-go. Are there better first-time dad gifts than the chance to bond with baby?
Buy it: Seraphine Men’s Hoodie with Baby Pouch, $99, Seraphine.com
Gift ideas for new dads can be tricky. But when in doubt, gadgets that help him do things with one hand are bound to be prized possessions—especially if it allows him to open a beer bottle without putting baby down. Enter: the GrabOpener. It’s every brew-loving new dad’s dream.
Buy it: GrabOpener One Handed Grab Opener, starting from $16, TheGrommet.com
Everyone encourages new moms to take time to pamper themselves. Well, new dads deserve a little self-care too. A subscription to a Harry’s Shave Plan is one of the best new dad gifts because it means he’ll always have premium shaving essentials stocked. One less thing to put on the to-do list!
Buy it: Harry’s Shave Plan, starting from $15, Harrys.com
Sure, the Apple Watch Series 3 offers workout tracking, daily motivation tips, a heart and stress monitor and even sleep tracking, for that time in the misty future when sleep is part of his life again. But what makes this smart watch a standout is the fact that it’s water-resistant, so he can wear it on trips to the beach or pool. Plus, he’ll also be able to automatically sync his favorite playlists via Apple Music, meaning he can play the one song that magically lulls baby to sleep, anytime, anywhere.
Buy it: Apple Watch Series 3 GPS, $199, Walmart.com
Veteran dads agree: Get caught with a dead phone on the go and things go downhill fast. After all, he won’t want to miss the latest cute photo or, heaven forbid, an emergency call. This car phone charger offers high-speed wireless charging, enables hands-free calls and is compatible with Samsung Galaxy and iPhone devices. And since many first-time dads end up driving around with baby until they fall asleep, this is one of the best new father gifts to give.
Buy it: CTYBB Wireless Car Phone Holder and Charger, $30, Amazon.com
New dad gifts that make dinner prep a breeze are always a smart choice. The Instant Pot has earned legendary status by making it quicker and more convenient to cook just about anything perfectly. Hot, healthy, economical dinners are back on the menu! Plus, the automatic “keep warm” feature keeps meals at the perfect temperature until new parents are ready to sit down and eat.
Buy it: Instant Pot Duo Nova 7-in-1 Multi-Function Cooker 6 Quart, $100, Bloomingdales.com
Personalized new dad gifts are extra-special. That’s why we’re besotted with this personalized storybook by Wonderbly. Add up to four names to this precious tale, told from the perspective of a child explaining just how much they love their Daddy. He can read it to baby at bedtime for years to come.
Buy it: Wonderbly I Love Daddy This Much, $35, Wonderbly.com
New or expectant dads that enjoy an active lifestyle but don’t have the time to hit up the gym will appreciate these cool fitness wrist weights. Designed to be worn while running, hiking or even toting baby around town, these weighted wristbands will take his home workouts to the next level.
Buy it: Bala Set of 2 Weighted Bangles, $49, Nordstrom
Help the new dad in your life upgrade his skincare regimen with this hydrating trio for men. The set includes a charcoal face wash, a lightweight moisturizer and an exfoliating face scrub that’ll revive tired skin. Trust us, this new father gift will be a welcome addition to his daily routine.
Buy it: Clinique 3-Piece Clinique For Men Daily Hydration Set, $31, Macys.com
Artsy parents will adore this unique memory book that can be used to document all of baby’s milestones. The front cover and interior pages feature artwork inspired by a woodblock-printed book from Japan’s Edo period—how cool!
Buy it: The Met Store Baby Book: A Special Book of Memories and Milestones, $35, Store.MetMuseum.com
The best gifts for new dads play to their interests. So if you’re shopping for an outdoorsy dad, why not treat him to a sturdy child carrier so he can share his passion for hiking with his kid? This fold-away style from Osprey is suitable for a range of activities, comes with a built-in UPF 50 sunshade and can be adjusted to suit all body types. Bonus: It weighs 5 pounds, making it one of the lightest structured carriers on the market.
Buy it: Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier, $260, Osprey.com
Searching for sentimental gifts for expecting dads? Check out this custom keychain from Etsy. Add your ultrasound image plus a sweet message on the back for a truly heartwarming present he’ll treasure forever.
Buy it: Loveson Designs Daddy Keychain, starting from $17, Etsy.com
Having a baby is a messy business, so anything that makes the cleanup easier is a great new dad gift. Whether he’s prepping a batch of homemade baby food or cooking up a storm for the whole family, this apron will keep his clothes spic and span. It’s made from 100 percent cotton, comes in five fun colors and even has plenty of pockets for his spatula, binkies, bibs or whatever else he needs close at hand!
Buy it: Kaf Home Tailor Cotton Apron, $25, Nordstrom.com
It happens to the best of dads: He’s ready to walk out the door, thinking, “we’re going to get to the pediatrician on time for once” and then…he can’t find his keys. (Or phone. Or wallet.) The dilemma is real, but the solution is easy. Clip the Tile Pro to your phone, keys or other objects, and use the Tile app to call and locate what you’re looking for. New dad gifts that help him find his stuff? Priceless!
Buy it: Tile Pro Keys Finder and Item Locator, $35, Amazon.com
Parents (especially the first-timers) just can’t get enough photos of their little ones. One of the most innovative gift ideas for new dads is this pocket-sized phone tripod. The size of a credit card, it can slip right into his wallet and ensure that he’ll get crystal-clear photos of that flash of baby’s first smile or teetering first steps.
Buy it: Pocket Tripod Pro, $25, PocketTripod.com
In the midst of all the joyous first-time dad moments, there are painful times too. And we’re not speaking metaphorically. Baby head butts as you coax crawling, toddler kicks as you carry them off the playground and Sunday morning bed jumps can all pose a risk to the family jewels. So as hilarious as these boxer briefs are, this gift for new dads that’s designed to protect their balls is super-practical. Each pair of these FridaBalls boxer briefs is made with a reinforced protective pouch to soften the blows.
Buy it: Fridababy FridaBalls Boxer Brief, $28, Frida.com
Dad will need his phone more than ever—and protecting it will be harder than ever. (Nothing fascinates an inquisitive baby quite like a phone.) That’s why protective phone cases are great new dad gifts. The Otterbox Defender Series Case protects Dad’s phone in three ways: with an inner shell, an outer cover and a touch-screen protector. Because babies become mischievous toddlers quicker than he can say, “honey, have you seen my phone?”
Buy it: Otterbox Defender Series Case, $60, Otterbox.com
Isabelle Grace’s Men’s Tall Tags Necklace is one of the best gifts for new dads who are swooning over their newborn. The handmade sterling silver charm is personalized on the front and back with baby’s name and birthday, then texturized for an edgy, modern look. You can order it on a chain or leather cord.
Buy it: Isabelle Grace Men’s Tall Tags Necklace, $90, IsabelleGraceJewelry.com
A new dad is likely using his phone even more these days—as a baby monitor, noise machine, feeding tracker and more—so a strong power bank that fits in his pocket is one of the most practical first-time dad gifts. This one has three ports (two USB and one micro USB), so he can charge multiple devices at once.
Buy it: Anker PowerCore 20100, $40, Amazon.com
Dad’s weekly night out with the guys may be on hiatus, but that doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy a treat now and then. Our new dad gifts of choice: McCrea’s handmade Single Malt Scotch Caramels. They offer a peaty, rich flavor spiked with smoky scotch—meaning he can enjoy the intoxicating taste without the accompanying hangover.
Buy it: McCrea’s Single Malt Scotch Caramels, $5, McCreasCandies.com
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