The Best Gifts for New Dads, Recommended by Parents
During pregnancy, moms rightfully get a lot of attention, but new dads deserve some of the spotlight and major love, too! The concept of new dad gifts is somewhat controversial, as many say: “But baby is the gift.” However, plenty like the idea of getting their partner a present to celebrate this life milestone. “I would like to get my husband a gift after baby arrives,” shares one member of The Bump community forum. “He has been such an amazing and supportive partner through our entire journey […] all he’s ever done is support me physically and emotionally. I know a lot of focus ends up on mom and the baby, but I think my husband should be celebrated as well,” she continues.
The best gifts for new dads can be practical presents to help navigate the early days of parenthood. “Items at the top of my list to gift new dads (myself included) focus on things that make life easier in the baby’s 0-to-3-month timeframe,” explains dad of two, Calvin. He told us that time-saving baby gear is a great gift for new dads as “that period of life is all about taking any pressure off mom possible.” Of course, if you don’t want to go down that route, other options include sweet keepsakes to mark this major life event or even luxury items that appeal to his unique sense of style. Below, discover our curated list of the best dad-to-be gifts, recommended by parents from The Bump community.
To help you choose the best gifts for the dad-to-be, we researched dozens of top-rated presents, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling. Here are the steps that we took to create this gift guide:
- We asked parents on The Bump editorial team and the larger TKWW staff about gifts they’ve received as or gifted for first-time and new dads.
- We researched what was being said about gift ideas for new dads in The Bump forums, as well as parenting forums and message boards across the internet, and customer reviews. From this, we learned what parents looked for when choosing presents for new dads and which brands and products are the most gifted.
- To understand how these products have worked for a variety of families, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring forums and message boards and reading user reviews to find out what parents across the country looked for when choosing new father gifts.
- We leveraged our familiarity with the best brands for gifts and considered a range of factors—such as price point, size, practicality and more—when choosing which presents to feature in our roundup.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read more about how The Bump develops our product reviews.
Babywearing hoodie
Babywearing works wonders for lots of families—it keeps baby close and your arms free. Dads who 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 carrier, and it’s a way for Dad to keep warm while on the go. First-time dad gifts that help him bond with baby are always winners.
Digital photo frame
“My [partner] brought it up only a few times that he wanted a picture frame so he could have our baby girl's newborn photo at his desk,” says The Bump forum member kilayla13. While you could go for a standard framed photo, a digital photo frame lets you share precious moments with your partner in an instant. One of the best tech gifts for new dads, this frame is connected to WiFi and lets you send photos and videos directly to it using the free Aura app.
Our community says:
[I recommend] a digital picture frame that he can download pictures of your little one and have at work. - TheBeez, The Bump forum member
Comfy sweatpants
“I’ve got a whole bunch of new comfy cozy things to wear after [baby] gets here, thought I'd get him something too. Especially for when people pop by,” shares forum member noideawhatshesdoing. If you’re thinking of treating the dad-to-be to a new pair of sweats, this option from Outdoor Voices is sure to meet the mark. They’re made from the brand’s signature Cloudknit material, made from a crazy-soft yet lightweight blend of polyester and spandex. Sweat-wicking, breathable and offering UPF 50+ protection, these pants are ideal for running errands, outdoor excursions, pediatrician appointments with baby and anything in between.
Our community says:
My boyfriend has had these sweats for years, and they remain his go-to pair. They're lightweight but cozy enough for all four seasons. – Emma O., e-commerce editor at The Bump
New dad shirt
Enjoy a picture-perfect moment with this T-shirt for new dads. “I got my husband a number 1 dad t-shirt. He loved it so much and wore it while I was in labor to cheer me on,” says forum member BabyFlax3615. With this customizable option from Etsy, you can choose from a selection of styles and colors to find the perfect fit for your loved one. It’s made from 100 percent Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, and parents say it’s super-soft. Dad will definitely want to wear it in the delivery suite or on the day you bring baby home from the hospital.
Our community says:
I'm thinking of getting him a thank you card with a daddy shirt and a picture frame for our first photos with our princess. - stephsxo, The Bump forum member
Prepared meals
“Honestly, the idea of giving a gift specifically for Dad didn't really come to me with either baby,” says Kate, a mom of two. “But we did receive a few things that really lightened his load, like meal gift cards and prepared frozen meals, as he's always been the cook in our household,” she explains. GoldBelly has a whole host of frozen meals to choose from, but this tasty chicken pot pie really has us drooling. The pies are unbaked and shipped frozen with dry ice, so all you have to do is pop them in the oven or store them in the freezer for another day. Better yet, you can also purchase a digital gift card, so your loved one can pick whatever tickles their fancy.
Our community says:
Can't go wrong with food! – Dumbgirl04, The Bump forum member
Baby carrier
Getting out of the house with baby in tow is no walk in the park. Apart from toys, snacks and a spare outfit, Dad will need something to transport baby in. While a stroller is best for longer journeys, a baby carrier is ideal if you want to travel light, relatively speaking, of course.
Calvin, a dad of two from The Bump community, received a gift card from his colleagues at an impromptu baby shower. He immediately put it towards the Ergobaby OMNI 360 Baby Carrier. “We are a fairly active family and also had a wedding in Italy when my son was 3 months old, so having something we could strap him into and go was a major key to success,” says Calvin. The ergonomic design is made from a soft, breathable mesh and features crossable straps and lumbar support to keep baby and Dad comfy on the go. If you’re on the hunt for a practical gift for new parents, look no further than this option.
Our community says:
It fits all sizes, so both mom and dad can use it, is super breathable (perfect for hot summer days), and can be used in a backpack form as your child ages and grows well with the family. I get this for all of my buddy's now if their family is expecting an addition! - Calvin R., dad of two
I think I'm getting [my significant other] an ERGO carrier for a new dad/birthday gift since he seems pretty excited to wear baby. – snowbound, The Bump forum member
Diaper bag for dad
Another top-rated gift idea for new dads is a diaper bag. We like this stylish, unisex diaper bag from Dagne Dover. It’s made from stretchy neoprene, which is incredibly easy to clean, and has plenty of pockets. Other standout features include how it clips to strollers, comes with a changing mat and has an extra zipper opening for wipes.
While the bag alone is plenty, many gift-givers like to take things one step further and fill it up with little treats and parenting essentials. “I got my husband the diaper bag he wanted and filled it with both things for him and baby,” explains The Bump forum member Trgree1712. “Among the things for him were a nice bottle of scotch, cigars and a few snack items he likes. Then I added standard baby items: bibs, binkies, blankets, baby lotion and wash.” This present is a wonderful way to combine practicality with fun, personalized treats!
Bottle washer
“If mom is nursing and feeding the baby isn't an option, I focus on diaper duty, cleaning bottles or pump parts and getting baby to sleep,” explains Calvin, a dad of two. He told us that one must-have item for new dads is the Baby Brezza Bottle Washer. This clever device washes, sterilizes and dries up to four baby bottles at a time and can also be used to clean pump parts and sippy cups. Thanks to this time-saving device, Dad can spend less time washing up and more time with his little one.
Approachable, creative cookbook
If the dad-to-be in your life loves to get creative in the kitchen, you can’t go wrong with this option from Canadian chef and internet personality Matty Matheson. As its title implies, the “Matty Matheson: Home Style Cookery” Cookbook features an array of comforting, homestyle recipes designed with amateur cooks and home kitchen setups in mind. Equally straightforward yet delicious, these meals offer plenty of inspiration for daily go-to eats, special occasions and everything in between.
Our community says:
If I buy [my partner] anything, […] it would definitely be a cookbook. – KMW08, The Bump forum member
I got my Husband a children's book called My Daddy and Me, that he will be able to read to our son as he grows up, plus a cookbook that he wanted as an added bonus. – Kristenmead, The Bump forum member
Instant film camera
Several parents in The Bump community forums shared that they planned to get Dad a new camera before their little one was born. That way, he could spend time on his hobby while also taking plenty of cute photos once baby was on the scene. For those who don’t want to break the bank on a digital device, consider this film camera from FUJIFILM. The classic design allows new parents to capture precious moments and print them out instantly. What’s more, instant photos would be an adorable addition to any baby album.
Our community says:
[My partner's] hobbies are woodworking and photography, so maybe [I'll get him] a new tool or accessory for his camera that would make taking baby's newborn photos easier. – JackJacktheCat, The Bump forum member
Wireless headphones
Apple AirPods are an undoubtedly cool present for new dads. The Pro 2 version offers an array of premium listening features, such as advanced active noise cancellation, a conversation awareness mode and personalized spatial audio. Each set comes with four pairs of silicone tips in various sizes, so your loved one can find the perfect, snug fit. Whether Dad is at the gym, working through his to-do list around the house or is anywhere in between, he’s sure to appreciate the high-quality sound and voice-activated Siri.
Our community says:
I bought my husband AirPods shortly after our little one was born, and they ended up being a great gift! He loved/still loves listening to music or a podcast while he holds and rocks our babe! - lalarose22, The Bump forum member
His favorite chocolate
When in doubt, buy Dad some of his favorite chocolate. It’s an edible gift he’s sure to appreciate in those hazy newborn days. “It may seem silly, but my husband loves Reese's and our Walmart has just started stocking giant half-pound Reese's Peanut Butter cups. I picked one up for him today as a little surprise gift for when we're in the hospital,” says forum member MerBot. Even if you can’t find giant candy, these sweet treats will definitely be a welcome addition to Dad’s hospital bag.
Our community says:
I'll wrap it in a little gift bag along with some other ‘survival kit’ stuff that I sneak into his bag for the hospital and have a card/note with it. – MerBot, The Bump forum member
Coffee subscription service
It’s no secret that sleep is scarce in the early days of parenthood. To that end, this coffee club gift subscription is a practical present for new dads that will be much appreciated. With it, Dad will receive gourmet, single-origin coffee that’s packaged either ground, whole bean or pods compatible with their go-to brewing machine. In every monthly package, he’ll also get a postcard related to the country the coffee came from, which explains its unique growing methods and rich history. Pair it with an amusing mug for a memorable new dad gift.
Bonus: Use code THEBUMP50 when checking out for 50 percent off all coffee subscriptions and $10 off all gifts.
Our community says:
I'm getting my husband a bag of fancy coffee beans and a silly mug to help him stay up for the late-night diaper calls. – steeby, The Bump forum member
I bought a man diaper bag and filled it with a gift card to a masseuse for him to get pampered, some really good coffee ( for long nights) and other first few week survival type gifts. – Kimberlyain, The Bump forum member
Custom daddy-and-me book
“I think a daddy-and-me book is totally the best idea. From personal experience, there's nothing sweeter than seeing your [partner] and [little one] snuggled up, reading a book together,” says joyfullyfound—and we totally agree. One of our favorite options is Wonderbly’s Daddy's Magic Hugs for You, which celebrates the heartwarming bond between Dad and baby. When ordering this storybook, you can add names, write a loving dedication for the first page and choose the cover design. As an extra special touch, you’ll also be able to personalize Dad’s illustrated character.
Bonus: Use code BUMP20 for 20 percent off one book when checking out at Wonderbly.
Sentimental gift for future Father’s Days
Looking for a thoughtful yet affordable gift for a new dad? Listen to this creative idea shared by new mom, Nicole. “For his first (expecting) Father's Day, I got my husband a blank book and wrote a note about how on future Father's Days, our child(ren) will write him a ‘card’ in this book instead of getting a traditional card each year.” How sweet is that? Any notebook will do, but we like this refillable leather-bound journal as it looks and feels like an heirloom. Plus, you can have your partner’s name or initials engraved on the front cover.
Personalized jewelry
This chain necklace from Oak and Luna exudes everyday luxury, and it’s a thoughtful present for any new parent. The simple, classic Figaro Chain design features a small pendant near the clasp that can be engraved with baby’s name. It comes in several metal options, including stainless steel, sterling silver and gold vermeil. No matter which option you choose, you can count on it to be a durable, timeless addition to Dad’s daily look.
Collegiate pint glasses
Many members of The Bump community forums mentioned that they gifted new dads college-related presents for a variety of reasons. Whether the dad-to-be is an avid sports fan or the new parents met as students, gifts related to their favorite university are surefire winners. This set of two glasses is an elevated take on the classic pint glass and features 360-degree artwork of your selected college. Decorated with your school’s colors, each cup features iconic buildings from your alma mater, team mascot and campus landmarks. It's a new dad gift that’s equal parts sentimental and practical.
Locket cufflinks
“[My partner] has to wear a suit every day to work, so I found these cufflinks that can be engraved and open up like a locket where I will put [little one’s] pictures inside. I know most guys don't really wear cufflinks anymore, but my husband does every day, so I know he'll love them,” shares forum member mgabel. Needless to say, new parents who regularly wear dress shirts and suits will undoubtedly appreciate this sweet gift idea. These silver cufflinks can be customized with Dad’s initials and have space for two small photos to slot inside.
Keepsake letters
This sentimental first-time dad gift will help your loved one remember simple, precious moments throughout baby’s early days, months and years. The keepsake book includes 12 letters complete with helpful prompts where parents can record memories, big and small. Each one also comes with a corresponding envelope, so they can safely store them until the time comes to share them with their children.
New dad picture frame
A picture frame is a classic gift for first-time dads—and with good reason. It allows them to showcase their favorite photo of baby on their bedside table, on their desk or anywhere in between. “I’ve bought a ‘Dad’ picture frame, which I will put their first picture in and give it to him as soon as it is ready. I know pictures are something he appreciates, so I think he will love it,” says forum member Jatpa003. This sweet option from Etsy can be personalized with engravings to celebrate Dad’s status as a new parent. Plus, the heirloom-quality leather design is available in several color options. It’s sure to be a treasured gift for years to come!
Our community says:
I made my husband a nice framed photo of baby for Father's Day and I'll probably do the same thing this time around for this baby. – Achae, The Bump forum member
You could give a picture frame for his office or something he can fill with a picture later. – april172010U, The Bump forum member
Personalized keychain
A personalized keychain is another popular choice when it comes to present ideas for new dads. Gift-givers love that it’s a small, simple way for Dad to carry their favorite photo with them all day long. “I got [my] husband a keychain. I had it made with a picture of him and [our] little one. It's something small, but he loved it,” says The Bump forum member nicoledyoung7. There are tons of options to choose from, but we like this leather option from Etsy. It can be customized with up to six photos and engraved with the word “Dad” or “Daddy.”
Our community says:
I also want to have a keychain made with the baby's initials and a little saying so he can carry around something from his son everywhere he goes. - Gingermom15, The Bump forum member
Adorable board book
Ensure baby’s first word is “dada” with the help of this cute board book. The sweet story by Tonight Show host and Saturday Night Live alum Jimmy Fallon features adorable illustrations of daddy and baby cows, sheep, ducks, frogs and more. It’s sure to result in some giggles during storytime! “I'm planning on getting [my husband] a couple of children's books centered around a Dad theme, like the Jimmy Fallon one, and writing a note inside. He's really looking forward to bonding with the baby, and I figured these could be their books together,” says forum member coco305.
Our community says:
I got [my partner] a few daddy/baby board books because we want to read to him from day one. – Gingermom15, The Bump forum member
Custom coffee mug
Some of the best gifts for new dads combine practicality and sentimentality, just like this unique mug. Dad is sure to use it every morning—especially when baby is around—and it comes in several different sizes and color options. Best of all, it can be personalized with baby’s ultrasound picture and their name. “I bought my hubby a personalized mug. It has a picture of our [little one's] first ultrasound and says ‘dad to be’. He loved it and uses it every morning,” shares forum member ahcantrell90.
Cribbage set
If you’re not sure where to begin when it comes to choosing a present, thinking of your loved one’s hobbies (especially those that you have in common) is a great place to start. For forum member Bethyboo26, that meant a unique board game. “I'm thinking of getting [my] husband something like a handcrafted cribbage board or something like that. We play cribbage together a lot, and I want to keep that up even after baby,” they shared. This set is available with 63 different national park engraving designs. Better yet, it’s travel-sized, so you can play it together on the go.
Baseball glove
The best presents for new dads play to his interests. If he’s sporty, a new baseball glove might be a homerun. It’s something he can use now and in later life to play catch with your kids. This option by Rawlings has a full-grain oiled leather shell and can be used for a whole host of recreational sports, including softball and baseball.
Our community says:
When I was pregnant, I gave [my] husband a baseball mitt for him and the smallest one I could find for [my son] to grow into. So he could do that quintessential daddy activity and play catch with his son! - celticlullaby, The Bump forum member
Sentimental sculpture
“When my daughter was born, I gave my husband a Willow Tree statue titled ‘New Dad’ (we collect Willow Tree statues), a daddy-and-me frame (for him to take to work), and a book on becoming a new dad. He loved all three gifts, as he is a really sentimental guy,” shares forum member BecomingFamilyofFour. If the dad-to-be in your life is sentimental as well, this sweet keepsake will tick all the boxes on your list. The hand-painted sculpture depicts a father holding his newborn baby. It’s a thoughtful gift to commemorate this special moment in time.
Picture for dads and daughters
Those expecting a little girl will love this picture book for new dads. It tells a heartwarming tale of a dad and daughter and showcases all the ways parents help their little ones grow. The story is full of charming animal illustrations and rhyming prose to celebrate the new special bond. This is sure to be a much-loved keepsake down the road—plus, it’ll be a favorite for many storytimes with Dad to come.
Our community says:
My first was a girl and I found a cute book about a dad of a daughter but just gave him that when we found out the sex. - april172010U, The Bump forum member
Nursery poster
A framed picture for baby’s room is another sentimental gift idea for first-time dads. This cheerful, modern nursery print reads “te amo,” which means “I love you” in Spanish and Portuguese. It’s an especially nice option for bilingual families. “English is not my husband's mother tongue, so I got a print for the nursery that says ‘I love you’ in his mother tongue,” shared forum member TomekiaB—which we thought was especially sweet!
Organic baby onesie
Celebrate Dad’s special bond with baby from the get-go with this adorable graphic bodysuit from Finn & Emma. It reads “I Love Dad” in simple, colorful block letters, and parents say the printing quality is fantastic. This onesie is made from super-soft, 100 percent organic cotton that will be extra gentle on baby’s skin. It also has easy-snap fasteners to ensure Dad has quick diaper access when he needs it most.
Our community says:
I got my husband a onesie that says "I love daddy"on it. It was my first baby purchase. – hawkeyegirl114, The Bump forum member
Maybe get him a surprise Daddy related onesie to bring baby home in. – Mamabeagle, The Bump forum member
You could buy a cute "I love my daddy" type outfit for [little one] if you wanted to do something nice and baby related. – GeminiJordan, The Bump forum member
Graphic novel
Last but not least is a new dad gift for Star Wars fans. The graphic novel aptly named Darth Vader and Son is a comic reimagining of Darth Vader as a father like any other. This sweet illustrated book celebrates the trials and joys of parenting through the lens of a galaxy far, far away. For those expecting little girls, Darth Vader's Little Princess is also available. All in all, parents love the fun take on the iconic character and say it’s a charming read.
Our community says:
[I got my partner] the graphic novels Darth Vader and Son and Darth Vader's Little Princess, since he's a huge Star Wars fan." - snarkylibrarian, The Bump forum member
*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.
About the writer:
Martina Garvey is a senior editor at The Bump, where she writes and edits e-commerce content for pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. Over a nine-plus-year career in educational publishing and digital media, Martina has developed a keen eye for detail and robust reporting skills. As a staff member on The Bump for over four years, she’s written dozens of gift guides that cover countless milestone events, like becoming a new parent.
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