Baby showers may be fun, but they also serve a real purpose. Especially for first time mothers, baby showers are an opportunity for the expectant mother to get the real necessities for having a new born child. Gifts should be functional, though they may be personal. Whether you choose to buy a baby bib, maternity clothes, or snugglers blankets to keep the child warm, keep these tips in mind for shopping for your next baby shower.

Gender Bender

Try to find out what sex the child is expected to be. The traditional rule is blue for boys, pink for girls, though you can switch it up a bit. Some mothers prefer not to know, leaving it up to the fate, and that's just fine. If the gender of the upcoming child hasn't been revealed, try to get clothes that will work for either sex. These could be greens, reds, or oranges that could be used for both boys and girls.

Check Registration

More and more expectant mothers are using shower registries, a great idea because it helps ensure that the new parents will get more of what they need with fewer repeats. Usually a registry is spelled out on the invitation, though you may want to ask. Many registries these days are online, listing everything from snugglers to shoes to cribs to a baby bib. It's best to stick to the registry, though you can find ways to personalize your gift by getting a baby bib that says, "Grandpa's Co-Pilot."

Think Big

Don't feel like you have to buy every baby gift for a newborn. They will grow, believe me. It's best to buy clothes the child will be able to wear when they're older, taking the financial pressure off the family as the child grows up.

Think Warm

Babies get cold easily, so opt for gifts that can keep the baby warm. Snugglers blankets are a great idea, and many come in cute animal shapes. They are practically their own stuffed animals, and are great for warming up the baby after a bath. Snugglers work great for toddlers too!

Buy Quantity

When it comes to a baby bib, you can't have just one. Kids go through them fast, so plan on buying a set of at least 5 or 6. Each baby bib means one more day to put off doing the laundry. It's also best to always have a few snugglers on hand as well.