If you're not a parent yourself, choosing the right gift for a baby shower can be a little daunting. Don't panic, follow our guide to great gifts for baby and first-time parents and you'll get it right every time

The one thing new babies crave most is love, but the list of supplies and equipment new parents require is mind-boggling! Trying to decide on a gift can be difficult - especially if it's a couple's first child. Should you chip in with other friends or family members for a crib, deluxe pram or pushchair? If you get clothes, should you get stuff they can use right away, or something that will last a little longer?

Here are six fun and functional baby gift ideas that won't put a strain on your busy schedule, or your wallet:

Baby photo album
While the pregnancy itself may seem to take an eternity, once the baby is born, time flies by at warp speed! As new parents, they're going to feel a longing to capture as many of the 'firsts' as possible - baby's first smile, laugh, roll over, solid food, crawl, word, step or tooth - the list is endless. Look out for specialist baby albums like Adesso Albums, which allow parents to write alongside the photo as a reminder of the day.

Bib-a-day
Okay, we know that once babies start eating solids it's more like a bib-a-minute, but don't you think new parents would appreciate a week's worth of bibs? Check out the choices at your local branch of Adams or Mothercare. You can get the same bib in a variety of colours - go for a cute theme or get seven bibs that are completely different from one another.

Bundle of basics
Many essential baby products are small and inexpensive, and combining a whole bunch of them can make a terrific and useful gift. Baby lotion, shampoo, mild soap, nappy rash ointment, Vaseline, washcloths, fingernail clippers, a brush and comb set, bath toys, a teething ring - are all really useful necessities that many first mums and dads might not have thought of. You can put the goodies in a pretty basket or a small hamper and you're good to go.

Keep it clean
Any experienced parent knows that you can never have too many nappy wipes. So go to your pharmacy and buy the biggest package of baby wipes you can find. Throw in an economy-sized box or two of nappies, wrap it all up with a big bow, and just like that you'll have made things easier for harassed new parents. It may not be the prettiest present they get, but it'll certainly be the most practical.

Baby's first book
What was your favourite book when you were growing up? Chances are it was a classic that is still delighting youngsters today. If you still have that book and it's in good condition you can add a handwritten inscription and you'll have an instant heirloom. Or pick up a nice, new hardcover edition and add an inscription about what this book means to you. Since it will be a while before the baby is able to appreciate it, consider adding a few inexpensive toddler books that can be enjoyed sooner.

Gift card
In a rush? Out of ideas? How about getting a gift card the new parents can use at a specialist baby and toddler clothing shop like Petit Bateau? That way you'll know for sure that they're getting what they want and need. For something a little different, buy a gift certificate for a nice local restaurant and offer to baby-sit one evening so that Mum and Dad can get some quality time for themselves. And then make sure they go!