During pregnancy, moms are showered with love and gifts, and rightfully so. However, let’s not forget the new dads who also deserve recognition and appreciation as they embark on their fatherhood journey. Finding the perfect 1st time father gift is a wonderful way to celebrate this significant life milestone and show him you care.
While some may argue that “the baby is the gift,” many believe in acknowledging the new father’s role with a thoughtful present. As one member of The Bump community forum shared, “He has been such an amazing and supportive partner through our entire journey… I know a lot of focus ends up on mom and the baby, but I think my husband should be celebrated as well.”
If you’re looking for the ideal 1st time father gift, consider presents that are both practical and heartwarming. Practical gifts can ease the transition into parenthood, especially during the first three months. According to Calvin, a dad of two, gifts focused on “things that make life easier in the baby’s 0 to 3 month timeframe” are invaluable. Time-saving baby gear can alleviate pressure on the new mom and allow dads to be more involved. Alternatively, sentimental keepsakes or luxury items reflecting his personal style are also excellent choices to commemorate this special occasion.
Feeling overwhelmed by options? We’ve curated a list of the best 1st Time Father Gifts, catering to various budgets and preferences. Read on to discover our top recommendations.
In this article:
How we chose the best gifts for 1st time fathers
Best gifts for 1st time father
How We Chose the Best Gifts for 1st Time Fathers
Choosing the right gift can be challenging. To simplify your search for the perfect 1st time father gift, we conducted extensive research, evaluating numerous top-rated products. Our process included:
- Expert Insights: We consulted our team, drawing upon their personal experiences as parents to gather firsthand recommendations for gifts they gave or received as new dads.
- Community Feedback: We explored discussions and forums within The Bump community to understand what gifts parents were considering, giving, and receiving.
- Market Research: We performed comprehensive market research, analyzing external forums, message boards, and user reviews to identify trending and highly-regarded gifts for 1st time fathers.
Our commitment to editorial integrity ensures that our recommendations are trustworthy and helpful. Learn more about The Bump’s editorial and medical review process, which guides our article and product reviews.
Best Gifts for 1st Time Father
Baby Carrier
Ergobaby OMNI 360 Baby Carrier
Ergobaby OMNI 360 Baby Carrier for comfortable baby carrying
Image: Ergobaby
Buying Options
Navigating the world with a newborn becomes easier with a baby carrier. While strollers are ideal for longer outings, a baby carrier offers convenience for shorter trips and crowded spaces. Calvin, a dad of two, recommends the Ergobaby OMNI 360 Baby Carrier, using a gift card from colleagues to purchase it. He highlights its practicality for active families, especially when traveling. “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,” Calvin explains.
The Ergobaby OMNI 360 is adjustable for all sizes, breathable for warmer climates, and adapts as the child grows, transitioning to a backpack style. Calvin adds, “I get this for all of my buddy’s now if their family is expecting an addition!”
Bottle Washer
Baby Brezza Bottle Washer Pro for efficient bottle cleaning
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
Baby Brezza|$279.99Amazon|$299.99
For new dads taking on feeding responsibilities, the Baby Brezza Bottle Washer Pro is a game-changer. Calvin emphasizes its importance, stating, “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.” This device washes, sterilizes, and dries up to four bottles, along with pump parts and sippy cups, saving precious time and effort. This practical 1st time father gift allows him to spend less time on chores and more quality time with his baby.
Prepared Meals
“Oprah’s Favorite” Signature Homestyle Chicken Pie
Oprah's Favorite Signature Homestyle Chicken Pie for convenient meals
Image: Goldbelly
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In the whirlwind of new parenthood, prepared meals are a lifesaver. Kate, a mom of two, recalls, “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.” Goldbelly offers a wide selection of frozen meals, including the delectable “Oprah’s Favorite” Signature Homestyle Chicken Pie. These unbaked pies are shipped frozen with dry ice, ready to bake or freeze for later. Gift cards are also available, allowing the new dad to choose his preferred meals. This thoughtful 1st time father gift addresses a crucial need during the busy newborn period.
Sentimental Leather Journal
Lightning Design Store Personalized Leather Journal Notebook Refillable
Personalized Leather Journal Notebook Refillable as a sentimental keepsake
Image: Etsy | LightningDesignStore
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For a meaningful and budget-friendly 1st time father gift, consider a personalized leather journal. Nicole, expecting her first baby, shared a heartwarming idea: “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.” This refillable leather-bound journal from Lightning Design Store offers a timeless and heirloom-quality feel. Personalize it with his name or initials for an extra special touch.
Book of Dad Jokes
Jimmy Niro Dad Jokes: Over 600 of the Best (Worst) Jokes Around and Perfect Gift for All Ages!
Jimmy Niro Dad Jokes book for lighthearted fun
Image: Bookshop.org
Buying Options
Bookshop.org|$9.29Amazon|$6.23
Adding humor to the parenting journey, a book of dad jokes is a fun and affordable 1st time father gift. Nicole, in addition to the sentimental journal, also gifted her husband a “Dad Jokes” book. While dad jokes might be cheesy, they are a quintessential part of fatherhood. Jimmy Niro’s “Dad Jokes” book, priced under $7 on Amazon, offers over 600 jokes, perfect for eliciting groans and giggles alike.
A New Watch
Kenneth Cole Mechanical Stainless Steel Watch
Kenneth Cole Mechanical Stainless Steel Watch as a timeless gift
Image: Kenneth Cole
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A classic and cherished 1st time father gift is a new watch. Symbolizing the passage of time and new beginnings, a watch serves as a daily reminder of his child. KristynLee15, a member of The Bump forum, gifted her husband a watch, noting, “He never gets anything nice for himself and he has been so incredibly supportive through this pregnancy, so I wanted to do something nice for him.” This Kenneth Cole mechanical watch, with its silver finish and blue dial, offers a sophisticated and modern style suitable for everyday wear. Watches are not only practical but can also become treasured heirlooms, as suggested by The Bump forum member KarenEliza, who plans to gift a watch her husband admired for years, hoping he can “pass that on to our son one day.”
A Bottle of Something Nice
Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Select with Free Glass Gift Set
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Select with Glass Gift Set for celebration
Image: The Whiskey Express
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For dads who appreciate fine spirits, a bottle of top-shelf liquor makes an excellent 1st time father gift. Ksuli, from The Bump forum, opted for “a really nice bottle of whisky” for her partner. This Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Select gift set includes a bottle of premium whiskey and a nosing glass designed to enhance its complex flavors. Whether for a celebratory toast or a relaxing evening, a bottle of his favorite spirit is a sophisticated and enjoyable gift.
Personalized Keychain
Timeless Leather Shop Personalized Photo Keychain
Personalized Photo Keychain from Timeless Leather Shop as a small keepsake
Image: Etsy | TimelessLeatherShop
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A personalized keychain is a thoughtful and affordable 1st time father gift. Nicoledyoung7, a member of The Bump forum, gifted her husband a keychain with a picture of him and their baby, noting, “It’s something small, but he loved it.” This leather keychain from Timeless Leather Shop can be customized with up to six photos and engraved with “Dad” or “Daddy.” It’s a small, everyday reminder of his precious new role, as Gingermom15 envisioned, wanting a keychain “with the baby’s initials and a little saying so he can carry around something from his son everywhere he goes.”
Digital Photo Frame
Aura Carver Mat Digital Photo Frame for displaying baby photos
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
Help him cherish every moment with a digital photo frame, a tech-savvy 1st time father gift. Kilayla13, from The Bump forum, mentioned her husband wanting a picture frame for their baby’s newborn photo at his desk. The Aura Carver Mat digital photo frame allows instant sharing of photos and videos via WiFi and a free app. TheBeez, another forum member, suggests a digital picture frame “that he can download pictures of your little one and have at work,” making it a perfect blend of sentiment and technology.
Book for Dads and Daughters
Gregory E. Lang Why a Daughter Needs a Dad
Gregory E. Lang Why a Daughter Needs a Dad book for father-daughter bonding
Image: Bookshop.org
Buying Options
Barnes and Noble|$9.99Bookshop.org|$10.22
If they are expecting a baby girl, “Why a Daughter Needs a Dad” is a heartwarming 1st time father gift. This picture book by Gregory E. Lang beautifully portrays the father-daughter bond through charming animal illustrations and rhyming text. Joyfullyfound, from The Bump forum, shares, “From personal experience, there’s nothing sweeter than seeing your [husband and [little one] snuggled up, reading a book together! And I know my [husband] really loves reading books about daddies with our daughter.” It’s a gift that fosters connection and story time moments.
Locket Cufflinks
EllieEllieltd Monogram Personalized Engraved Locket Cufflinks
Monogram Personalized Engraved Locket Cufflinks from EllieEllieltd as a formal keepsake
Image: Etsy | EllieEllieltd
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Personalized gifts are always special, and locket cufflinks are a unique 1st time father gift. These silver cufflinks from EllieEllieltd on Etsy can be engraved with his initials and hold two small photos inside. Mgabel, a member of The Bump forum, shared, “He has to wear a suit everyday 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 he’ll love them!” They’re a sophisticated way for him to carry his loved ones close, even in formal settings.
Diaper Bag for Dad
Dagne Dover Large Indi Diaper Backpack
Dagne Dover Large Indi Diaper Backpack as a stylish and practical diaper bag
Image: Dagne Dover
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A stylish and functional diaper bag is an essential 1st time father gift. The Dagne Dover Large Indi Diaper Backpack is a top-rated choice for both moms and dads. Made from easy-to-clean neoprene, it boasts ample pockets, stroller clips, a changing mat, and a convenient wipes zipper. Trgree1712, from The Bump forum, gifted her husband a diaper bag, filling it with “things for him and baby,” including “a nice bottle of scotch, cigars and a few snack items he likes” alongside baby essentials. This practical and thoughtful approach makes a diaper bag an excellent and personalized gift.
Graphic Novel for Star Wars Fans
Jeffrey Brown Star Wars Darth Vader and Son
Star Wars Darth Vader and Son Graphic Novel for entertainment
Image: Bookshop.org
Buying Options
Barnes and Noble|$13.49Bookshop.org|$13.90
For the Star Wars enthusiast, the “Darth Vader and Son” graphic novel is a fun and relatable 1st time father gift. This comic reimagines Darth Vader as an everyday dad, exploring the joys and challenges of parenting with humor. Snarkylibrarian, from The Bump forum, recommends “The graphic novels Darth Vader and Son and Darth Vader’s Little Princess, since he’s a huge Star Wars fan.” It’s a lighthearted and engaging gift that combines his interests with his new role.
Picture Frame for Daddy
FramedGiftCo I love my Daddy Picture Frame
I love my Daddy Picture Frame from FramedGiftCo as a sentimental home decor item
Image: Etsy | FramedGiftCo
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A classic and sentimental 1st time father gift is a picture frame. April172010U, from The Bump forum, suggests, “You could give a picture frame for his office or something he can fill with a picture later.” This wooden frame from FramedGiftCo comes in various colors and features a sweet message, customizable with the baby’s name. Jatpa003, another forum member, bought a “Dad’ picture frame” to display their first baby picture, knowing “pictures are something he appreciates.” It’s a simple yet heartfelt gift to showcase precious memories.
Cribbage Set for Game Nights
Heather Peel National Parks Travel Cribbage Set
National Parks Travel Cribbage Set by Heather Peel for family game time
Image: Uncommon Goods
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For dads who enjoy games, a cribbage set is a unique and engaging 1st time father gift. This travel-size set from Heather Peel, engraved with national park designs, appeals to outdoor enthusiasts. Bethyboo26, from The Bump forum, considered “something like a handcrafted cribbage board” to maintain their shared hobby, stating, “We play cribbage together a lot, and I want to keep that up even after baby.” It’s a gift that encourages quality time and shared activities as a family grows.
Cool Dad T-Shirt
Unique Trends Design Cool Dads Club Shirt
Cool Dads Club Shirt from Unique Trends Design for casual wear
Image: Etsy | UniqueTrendsDesign
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Help him embrace his new title with a “Cool Dad” T-shirt, a fun and casual 1st time father gift. This 100% cotton tee from Unique Trends Design features bold text and an oversized fit, available in various colors. Stephsxo, from The Bump forum, considered “a daddy shirt” as part of her gift. It’s a comfortable and playful way for him to show off his dad pride.
Sentimental Sculpture
Willow Tree New Dad Sculpted Hand-Painted Figure
Willow Tree New Dad Sculpted Figure as a touching keepsake
Image: Amazon
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For a touching keepsake, the Willow Tree “New Dad” sculpture is a beautiful 1st time father gift. This hand-painted figure depicts a father cradling his newborn, capturing a tender moment in time. BecomingFamilyofFour, from The Bump forum, gifted her husband a Willow Tree statue, along with other sentimental items, noting, “He loved all three gifts, as he is a really sentimental guy.” It’s a meaningful decorative piece for his home or office.
Chocolate Treats
Reese’s Miniatures Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups Candy
Reese's Miniatures Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups Candy for a sweet treat
Image: Walmart
Buying Options
Sometimes, simple pleasures are the best. Chocolate is a universally appreciated 1st time father gift, especially during the demanding newborn days. Merbot, from The Bump forum, surprised her husband with a giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, saying, “It may seem silly, but my husband loves Reese’s… I picked one up for him today as a little surprise gift for when we’re in the hospital.” A sweet treat provides a little boost during long nights and early mornings.
Nursery Poster in Another Language
Artsy Wall Posters Te Amo Childrens Wall Art
Te Amo Childrens Wall Art Poster from Artsy Wall Posters for bilingual families
Image: Etsy | artsywallposters
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For bilingual families, a nursery poster in dad’s mother tongue is a thoughtful and culturally relevant 1st time father gift. This “Te Amo” print from Artsy Wall Posters, meaning “I love you” in Spanish and Portuguese, adds a personal touch to the nursery decor. TomekiaB, from The Bump forum, chose a similar gift, explaining, “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.” It’s a beautiful way to incorporate his heritage into their child’s space.
Baseball Glove for Future Games
Rawlings Player Preferred Adult Ball Glove
Rawlings Player Preferred Adult Ball Glove for sports enthusiasts
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
Appeal to his sporty side with a baseball glove, a classic 1st time father gift with future playtime in mind. This Rawlings Player Preferred glove, made from full-grain oiled leather, is suitable for baseball and softball. Celticlullaby, from The Bump forum, gifted her husband baseball mitts, one for him and a smaller one for their son to grow into, envisioning “that quintessential daddy activity and play catch with his son!” It’s a gift that symbolizes future bonding and shared activities.
Plush Pacifier for Baby
WubbaNub Infant Pacifier Green Frog
WubbaNub Infant Pacifier Green Frog as a cute baby item with dad in mind
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
Sometimes the best 1st time father gift is something for the baby that reflects dad’s interests. Inspired by TomekiaB from The Bump forum who sought “baby gear that appeals to his interests,” a WubbaNub pacifier can be a charming choice. If he loves frogs or hedgehogs, a WubbaNub with a plush frog attached to a silicone pacifier is a sweet gesture. While technically for the baby, it’s a thoughtful way to include dad and acknowledge his personality in baby-related gifts.
Wireless Headphones for Peaceful Moments
Apple AirPods with Charging Case
Apple AirPods with Charging Case for personal audio enjoyment
Image: Walmart
Buying Options
For moments of personal escape, Apple AirPods are a fantastic 1st time father gift. Offering high-quality sound and voice-activated Siri, they provide an immersive wireless audio experience. Lalarose22, from The Bump forum, found AirPods to be “a great gift!” for her husband, who enjoys “listening to music or a podcast while he holds and rocks our babe!” They offer a way for him to relax and unwind amidst the demands of new parenthood.
Adorable Board Book for Story Time
“Your Baby’s First Word Will Be DADA” Board Book by Jimmy Fallon
Your Baby's First Word Will Be DADA Board Book by Jimmy Fallon for fun reading sessions
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
Target|$5Barnes & Noble|$7.99Amazon|$4.99
Ensure baby’s first word is “Dada” with this charming board book, a delightful 1st time father gift. Jimmy Fallon’s “Your Baby’s First Word Will Be DADA” features adorable illustrations and a playful narrative. Coco305, from The Bump forum, plans to gift “children’s books centered around a Dad theme, like the Jimmy Fallon one,” envisioning them as “their books together.” It’s a fun and interactive gift for story time bonding.
Game Console for Relaxation
PlayStation 5 Console (slim) for entertainment and downtime
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
For a significant occasion, a PlayStation 5 is a top-tier 1st time father gift. This slim console provides entertainment and relaxation during his downtime. Qme09, from The Bump forum, gifted her fiancé a new PlayStation, noting, “He really deserves some ‘him time!’” It’s a generous gift that acknowledges his need for self-care amidst new responsibilities.
Gamer-Inspired Baby Onesie
MiniKraftCo Player 3 Has Joined the Game Baby Onesie
Player 3 Has Joined the Game Baby Onesie from MiniKraftCo for gamer dads
Image: Etsy | MiniKraftCo
Buying Options
For a budget-friendly gamer-themed 1st time father gift, a “Player 3 Has Joined the Game” baby onesie is perfect. This adorable onesie from MiniKraftCo playfully announces the new addition to the family in gamer style. Melmarie4, from The Bump forum, gifted a similar onesie, saying, “My hubby is really into video games so I know he’ll love it.” It’s a cute and thematic gift that aligns with his hobbies.
Custom Advent Calendar for Countdown
Creative Hobbies Store 25 Drawer Wooden Advent Calendar
25 Drawer Wooden Advent Calendar from Creative Hobbies Store for personalized gifts
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
If the baby arrives near Christmas, a custom advent calendar is a creative and interactive 1st time father gift. This wooden advent calendar from Creative Hobbies Store with 25 drawers can be filled with small treats and surprises. Knottie86de2a207b1e6525, from The Bump forum, considered creating “an advent calendar style gift where he can open a drawer every day, or as needed, for a little pick-me-up in the weeks following delivery.” It’s a personalized and fun way to offer ongoing support and encouragement.
New Dad Shirt for Announcement
Signature Shirts Only The Best Husbands Get Promoted To Daddy T-Shirt
Only The Best Husbands Get Promoted To Daddy T-Shirt from Signature Shirts for proud dads
Image: Etsy | signaturetshirts
Buying Options
Capture a memorable moment with a “Best Husbands Get Promoted to Daddy” T-shirt, a picture-perfect 1st time father gift. This shirt from Signature Shirts is ideal for wearing in the hospital or on the homecoming day. Paytonpedro, from The Bump forum, bought a similar shirt for her husband to wear in the hospital, creating a special photo opportunity. It’s a simple yet celebratory garment to mark his new role.
Babywearing Hoodie for Cozy Bonding
Seraphine Men’s Hoodie with Baby Pouch
Seraphine Men’s Hoodie with Baby Pouch for comfortable babywearing
Image: Seraphine
Buying Options
For dads who love babywearing, the Seraphine Men’s Hoodie with Baby Pouch is a practical and thoughtful 1st time father gift. This sporty hoodie includes a zip-on pouch designed to fit comfortably over a baby carrier, keeping both dad and baby warm. It promotes bonding and closeness while keeping his arms free. This gift encourages active involvement in baby care and strengthens the father-child connection.
About the writer:
Martina Garvey is an editor at The Bump, where she writes and edits e-commerce content for pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. Over an eight-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 three years, she leverages an in-depth knowledge of must-have baby gear and postpartum essentials alongside a passion for the latest trends to create informative content parents can trust.
Plus, more from The Bump:
Your Ultimate Checklist of Baby Essentials
15 Best Men’s Diaper Bags for Dads on the Go
The 41 Best Baby Shower Gifts for Parents-to-Be
