If you are about to attend a baby shower and have no idea what to get the expecting mother, you are probably not alone. There are so many options to choose from, and if the mother has not registered it's hard to tell what will be most appreciated. Some baby gifts are universally accepted, though, and will always make mom and baby happy. New baby gifts should be useful and practical, but they should also be fun and festive.

There's no denying that every mother needs plenty of diapers, but simply bringing a pack of diapers to a baby shower might seem a little boring. Baby diaper cakes, however, include everything from diapers to swaddling blankets to bodysuit onesies, pacifiers, stuffed animals, baby lotion and more. Many of the baby diaper cakes on the market are festively designed to coordinate with the sex of the baby, while others are unisex. In either case, this gift will always provide the perfect combination of practicality and whimsy.

Toys always make great baby shower gifts as well, including rattles, books, and soft or plush toys. Fancier toys are geared more towards toddlers and might be more appropriate for child's birthday parties later on. Safety should also be considered when buying toys, so sharp edges, toxins and recalled toys are big no-nos. make sure to do some homework here.

There are also many unique clothing items that make great new baby gifts, from eco friendly baby clothes to political baby clothing to personalized baby clothes. If you really can't figure out what the mom would really like for her baby, though, you can always go with the tried and true gift certificate. This is a great way to stay flexible and give the couple some buying power for themselves, especially if they want something they did not get at the baby shower.

With so many unique and modern options on the market today, you are sure to find something both you and the mother will love.