Deciding what to put in a baby's easter basket can feel a little tricky since they're obviously too young for a massive sugar rush or small plastic toys that could be a choking hazard. You want the basket to look adorable for those inevitable photos, but you also want stuff they'll actually use or enjoy. Honestly, at this age, the basket is more for the parents' memories and a few practical treats than it is for the baby, and that is totally fine.
If this is your first time putting a basket together for a little one, don't overthink it. You don't need to spend a fortune or fill a giant tub with things they'll outgrow in a week. Here's a breakdown of some simple, sweet, and safe ideas to help you fill that basket without the stress.
Soft and Snuggly Essentials
You can't go wrong with something soft. Babies are all about textures, and Easter is the perfect excuse to lean into the whole "fuzzy bunny" aesthetic.
A Classic Plush Bunny
Every baby needs a soft, floppy-eared bunny. Look for ones with embroidered eyes instead of plastic beads to keep things safe. A high-quality stuffed animal often becomes that "forever" toy they drag around for years. If you want to get fancy, you can find ones that are personalized with their name on the ear.
Loveys and Security Blankets
If your baby is starting to show interest in gripping things, a lovey—a small square of fabric with a plush head attached—is a great basket filler. They're small, easy to pack in a diaper bag, and perfect for soothing. Look for spring colors like sage green, pale yellow, or a soft lavender.
Muslin Swaddles
You can never have too many swaddles. For an Easter basket, look for prints with carrots, little chicks, or floral patterns. They're practical, but they also act as great "filler" to bulk up the basket so it looks full without needing to buy twenty tiny items.
Practical Items You'll Actually Use
Since babies don't care about toys yet, why not use the basket to stock up on things you'd have to buy anyway? It makes the gift feel substantial without adding clutter to your house.
Teethers and Pacifiers
If you've got a baby between four and ten months old, they're probably chewing on everything in sight. Silicone teethers shaped like carrots or flowers are perfect for the season. You can also find pacifiers in muted spring tones. It's a small thing, but it fits the theme perfectly.
Festive Bibs and Burp Cloths
Let's be real, babies are messy. Drool bibs with cute little bunny ears or "My First Easter" prints are adorable and useful. Bandana-style bibs are especially popular right now because they look more like an accessory than a functional spit-up catcher.
Spring Outfits and PJs
Easter is a great time to transition the wardrobe from heavy winter sleepers to lighter cotton ones. A cute pair of footie pajamas with a garden print or a little sun hat for the upcoming warmer weather makes for a great "big" item in the center of the basket.
Books for Their First Library
Books are probably my favorite thing to include when thinking about what to put in a baby's easter basket. They last way longer than any toy and provide a great way to bond at bedtime.
Board Books
Standard paper pages don't stand a chance against baby drool, so board books are the way to go. There are so many classic Easter-themed board books out there. Look for ones with simple illustrations and high-contrast colors if your baby is still very young.
"Touch and Feel" Books
Babies love sensory play. Books that have "furry" bunny tails or "scratchy" baskets are always a hit. It keeps them engaged while you're reading, and it's a great way to introduce them to different textures.
Bath Books
These are the squishy, waterproof books that can go right in the tub. They're usually bright and colorful, and they're pretty much indestructible. Plus, they're usually the perfect size for an Easter basket.
Bath Time and Self-Care Fun
Bath time is often a favorite part of the day for babies, and it's an easy category to shop for when filling a basket.
Rubber Ducks and Floating Toys
While the traditional yellow duck is a classic, you can often find "Easter" versions like ducks wearing bunny ears. Just make sure they are sealed properly so they don't trap water and grow mold inside.
Hooded Towels
A fresh, fluffy hooded towel with a bunny face or little ears on the hood is a total winner. It's practical, but it also makes for the cutest post-bath photos.
Gentle Bubble Bath or Lotions
If your baby has started having real baths, a nice bottle of lavender-scented wash or a high-quality organic lotion is a lovely "treat." It's something you'll use every night, and it fills up a good chunk of space in the basket.
Toys for Development and Play
Even though they aren't ready for LEGOs or puzzles, babies can still have some fun with age-appropriate toys that help them learn.
Wooden Rattles and Shakers
Wooden toys have a timeless look that fits the Easter aesthetic perfectly. A simple wooden rattle or a set of maracas can help them work on their motor skills. Plus, they look much nicer in a basket than bright neon plastic.
Stacking Cups
These are a staple for a reason. They're cheap, they're fun, and they help with hand-eye coordination. You can find sets in beautiful pastel colors that look great tucked into the side of an Easter basket.
Bubbles
Okay, the baby can't blow the bubbles themselves, but they will be absolutely mesmerized watching you do it. A bottle of bubbles is a super cheap addition that provides a ton of entertainment on a sunny Easter afternoon.
Making the Basket Safe and Cute
When you're putting everything together, there are a few "pro tips" to keep in mind, especially for the under-one crowd.
First, skip the plastic grass. Seriously, it's a nightmare. It gets everywhere, and if a baby grabs a handful, it's going straight into their mouth. Instead, use a soft baby blanket or some crumpled tissue paper as the "nest" at the bottom. It's safer and looks much more high-end.
Second, think about the basket itself. You don't have to use a traditional wicker basket that might have sharp edges or loose pieces. A soft fabric bin, a silicone bucket, or even a cute storage crate can serve as the basket and then be reused in the nursery later for diapers or toys.
Finally, keep an eye on sizes. Anything that can fit through a toilet paper roll is a no-go for a baby. If you're using plastic eggs for decoration, make sure they're taped shut or are the jumbo-sized ones that won't pose a risk.
It's All About the Memories
At the end of the day, your baby isn't going to remember if they had five toys or ten. They probably won't even remember the basket at all! The real joy is in the tradition you're starting. Taking those photos of them sitting next to their basket (or more likely, trying to eat the basket) is what really matters.
Focusing on a few high-quality items and some daily essentials is the smartest way to handle what to put in a baby's easter basket. It keeps your house from getting cluttered and ensures the baby gets things they actually need. Happy Easter, and have fun picking out those tiny bunny ears!