🎁 Mother’s Day Cut-Off is About 1 Week Away – Make It Personal with 15% OFF + Free Design Preview!

33 First Father's Day Gifts For New Dads: Useful & Affordable

April 21, 2025 13 min read

First Father's Day Gifts For New Dads

He'll never forget the day he became a dad. But somewhere in the sleep-deprived fog of midnight feedings, diaper changes, and baby snuggles, he might not realize his firstFather's Day is approaching.


That's where you come in! The first Father's Day is a major milestone worth celebrating properly. New dads are simultaneously experiencing their greatest joy and their greatest exhaustion. They're figuring out parenthood one day at a time, and they deserve something special that acknowledges this amazing new chapter.


Whether you're shopping for your husband, brother, friend, or another new dad in your life, we've rounded up 33 fantastic first Father's Day gifts that range from practical problem-solvers to sentimental keepsakes. These gifts will make his introduction to fatherhood a little easier, a lot more fun, and show him just how much you notice all the love he's pouring into his little one.

Budget-Friendly First Father's Day Gifts

Finding the perfect first Father's Day gift doesn't need to break the bank. These affordable options deliver thoughtfulness without the hefty price tag, making them ideal for celebrating new dads while keeping your budget intact.

Weighted Blanket

A weighted blanket offers the new dad in your life the deep-pressure comfort he needs after long days of baby care. These therapeutic blankets can improve sleep quality and reduce stress—two things every new parent desperately needs! 


Look for one that's about 10% of his body weight for optimal results, with a washable cover for those inevitable baby-related spills.


Weighted Blanket

Custom Papa Sweatshirt

Give him a cozy sweatshirt that proudly displays his new title. A custom Papa sweatshirt makes for both a practical and sentimental first Father's Day gift. He can wear it during early morning feedings, weekend strolls with the baby, or just lounging around the house. 


Want to include a heartfelt message with your gift? Our collection of New Dad Quotes offers perfect sentiments to express your appreciation for the amazing father he's becoming.


Custom Papa Sweatshirt

Sleep Mask

New dads quickly learn to sleep whenever possible, regardless of time or daylight. A high-quality sleep mask blocks out light for those precious daytime naps when baby finally dozes off. 


Look for ones with contoured designs that won't press against his eyes and adjustable straps for comfort. This simple gift can dramatically improve those short but crucial sleep sessions between baby duties.


Sleep Mask

Baby Food Cook Book

Help dad participate in baby's next milestone with a comprehensive baby food cookbook. These specialized cookbooks offer simple, nutritious recipes specifically designed for developing palates. They typically include age-appropriate foods, portion guidelines, and nutritional information. 


Many also feature meal prep tips for busy parents who want to make batches in advance—perfect for the dad who enjoys cooking and wants to play an active role in feeding routines.


Baby Food Cook Book

Insect Repellent Machine

Protect both dad and baby with a modern insect repellent machine. These devices create a shield against mosquitoes and other bugs without harsh chemicals or sprays. Perfect for evening porch sitting or backyard time with the little one, these machines typically cover 15-20 feet of space. 


Looking specifically for gifts that celebrate his new role? Check out our dedicated guide to Gift Ideas for First-Time Dads for even more inspiration!


Insect Repellent Machine

Personalized Keychain

A personalized keychain provides a daily reminder of his most important job: being a dad. Consider options featuring baby's birthdate, handprint, or footprint, or simply engraved with "Dad" and the year. 


This small token fits perfectly in his pocket, attaches to his keys for daily use, and serves as a constant, tangible connection to his child when he's away. It's a simple yet meaningful first Father's Day gift.


Personalized Keychain

Phone Stand

A versatile phone stand lets dad keep his hands free while following along with baby care videos, having video calls with grandparents, or simply watching shows during late-night feedings. 


Look for adjustable models that work on different surfaces and hold phones securely at various angles. Celebrating a dad who's just welcomed his first child? Our First Born Quotes article features touching sentiments about the special relationship between fathers and their firstborn children.


Phone Stand

Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads

Written specifically for first-time fathers, "Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads" combines useful advice with humorous perspective. This approachable guide covers everything from changing diapers to building a fort, all presented with guy-friendly instructions and illustrations. 


Unlike many parenting books, it focuses on practical skills and situations dads actually face. It's the perfect blend of helpful information and entertainment for the new father figuring things out day by day.


Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads

First Father's Day Gift Ideas For Dad And Babies

These thoughtful gifts are designed to strengthen the special bond between a new dad and his little one. Each item creates opportunities for connection, making memories together from the earliest days of parenthood.

Personalized Dad Shirts

Matching dad-and-baby outfits make for adorable photo opportunities and sweet memories. Personalized dad shirts with phrases like "Dad Established 2023" or "Dad of an Awesome Kid" celebrate his new role with style. 


Look for soft, comfortable fabrics that stand up to frequent washing. Pair your thoughtful gift with the perfect words using our 105 Happy Father's Day to My Son collection of heartfelt messages and quotes.


Personalized Dad Shirts

Plush Toys

A high-quality plush toy creates opportunities for dad to engage in imaginative play with baby. Choose characters with distinct features and textures that stimulate baby's developing senses. The best options are machine-washable and durable enough to withstand years of love. 


This gift gives dad a special toy that becomes "their thing," creating a sweet routine of playtime together that builds their relationship from the earliest days.


Plush Toys

Personalized Hats

A customized hat with "Dad," "Papa," or even baby's name makes a practical first Father's Day gift he'll actually use. Choose from baseball caps, beanies, or bucket hats depending on his style preferences. 


The personalization transforms an everyday accessory into a meaningful keepsake that announces his proud dad status to the world. Plus, it comes in handy during those early-morning walks when there's no time for a shower.


Personalized Hats

Baby Play Gym

A well-designed play gym gives dad and baby a dedicated space for floor time fun. Look for models with removable, interactive toys that support development at different stages. The best options include varied textures, sounds, and visual elements to keep baby engaged. 


This gift creates a special spot for dad to bond with baby during tummy time sessions, encouraging those important developmental milestones while making memories together.


Baby Play Gym

Montessori Wooden Puzzles

Montessori wooden puzzles introduce babies to shapes, colors, and problem-solving while creating quality time with dad. These timeless toys are crafted from smooth, splinter-free wood with non-toxic finishes safe for curious mouths. 


Simple puzzles with large, easy-to-grasp pieces grow with the child from early exploration to more complex play. They're perfect for dad to introduce during their special playtime together.


Montessori Wooden Puzzles

Diaper Backpack

A masculine diaper backpack designed specifically for dads combines functionality with style. Look for models with multiple compartments, insulated bottle pockets, and changing pad included. 


Neutral colors and streamlined designs make these bags practical without looking like traditional diaper bags. This gift shows you recognize his active role in childcare while giving him a practical tool for adventures with baby that matches his personal style.


Diaper Backpack

Car Organizer

A well-designed car organizer keeps baby essentials tidy and accessible during family outings. These handy organizers typically attach to seat backs with multiple pockets for diapers, wipes, toys, and snacks. Some models include tablet holders for entertainment during longer drives. 


This practical gift helps dad maintain order in the family vehicle, reducing stress during outings and ensuring he always has what he needs for successful adventures with baby.


Car Organizer

Lumbar Pillow

Support dad's back during those long hours of holding, rocking, and feeding with a quality lumbar pillow. These ergonomic supports help maintain proper posture and reduce strain during marathon baby-soothing sessions. Look for ones with breathable, washable covers and memory foam that conforms to his body. 


This thoughtful gift acknowledges the physical demands of new parenthood while providing practical relief for those endless hours in the rocking chair.



CMY Cubes

These fascinating light-filtering cubes captivate babies while introducing them to color theory concepts. CMY (cyan, magenta, yellow) cubes create beautiful color combinations when overlapped and rotated. 


They're perfect for dad to use during floor time, creating an engaging visual experience that stimulates baby's developing vision. The simple yet mesmerizing effect entertains infants and adults alike, giving dad a unique toy for those special moments of discovery together.


CMY Cubes

Practical First Father's Day Gift Ideas

New dads quickly learn that practical solutions make all the difference. These useful gifts tackle common challenges of early parenthood, helping him navigate this new role with greater ease and confidence.

Massage Gun

The physical strain of carrying, rocking, and bending for baby care takes a toll on new dads. A quality massage gun like the Hyperice Hypervolt Go 2 provides targeted relief for sore muscles after long days of parenting. 


This compact, powerful device offers multiple speed settings and attachment heads for different muscle groups. It's perfect for quick self-care sessions during nap time, helping him stay physically comfortable as he adjusts to the demands of fatherhood.


Massage Gun

Aromatherapy Diffuser

An aromatherapy diffuser creates a calming environment for both dad and baby during those challenging moments. Essential oils like lavender promote relaxation, while citrus scents can boost energy during early morning wake-ups. 


Modern diffusers feature adjustable mist settings, auto shut-off functions, and subtle lighting options. This thoughtful gift transforms the nursery or living space into a more peaceful setting, potentially helping with baby's sleep routines while providing stress relief for tired parents.


Aromatherapy Diffuser

Electric Razor

A quick, efficient electric razor helps dad maintain his appearance despite the time constraints of new parenthood. Look for waterproof models that work in the shower, saving precious minutes in his morning routine. 


Modern options offer multiple trim settings and extended battery life. This practical gift acknowledges that self-care often takes a backseat with a newborn, giving him a time-saving tool to feel put-together even during the most sleep-deprived days.


Electric Razor

Ultra-thin Baby Diapers

Premium ultra-thin diapers combine superior absorption with a streamlined profile, making changes easier for new dads. These high-performance diapers prevent leaks while remaining comfortable for baby's sensitive skin. 


A substantial supply of quality diapers is always appreciated in a household with a newborn. This practical gift shows you understand the daily realities of parenthood and want to contribute something genuinely useful to his new routine.

Ultra-thin Baby Diapers

Baby Bath Thermometer

A reliable bath thermometer takes the guesswork out of bath time, giving new dads confidence during this important caregiving routine. These clever devices typically feature color-coded displays that clearly indicate safe water temperatures. 


Many models double as bath toys with engaging animal shapes or floating designs. This practical gift addresses a common concern for new parents while making bath time safer and more enjoyable for both dad and baby.


Baby Bath Thermometer

Lunch Cooler Bag

An insulated lunch cooler bag helps working dads maintain healthy eating habits despite the chaos of new parenthood. Look for durable models with ample storage, leak-proof design, and easy-clean materials. Some feature additional compartments for utensils, napkins, and ice packs. 


This practical gift supports his nutrition and helps him save money on takeout during this financially demanding time, showing thoughtfulness about his daily routine beyond baby care.


Lunch Cooler Bag

Smartphone Sanitizer

A smartphone sanitizer eliminates germs from the device dad constantly handles between touching baby and everything else. These compact units use UV light technology to kill bacteria and viruses without damaging electronics. 


Many models double as chargers or aromatherapy diffusers for added functionality. This innovative gift addresses the hygiene concerns that come with newborns while protecting one of his most-used possessions from the messes that inevitably come with baby care.


Smartphone Sanitizer

Portable Phone Charger

A high-capacity portable phone charger ensures dad never misses capturing baby milestones due to a dead battery. Look for models with fast-charging capability and multiple ports for charging several devices simultaneously. 


Compact designs with built-in cables reduce bulk in the diaper bag. This practical gift acknowledges the importance of staying connected and documenting precious moments, even during long days away from home with a new baby.


Portable Phone Charger

Father's Day Gift Ideas For First-Time Dad

First-time fathers experience a unique mix of excitement, uncertainty, and joy. These gifts are specially selected to celebrate this momentous life change while making the transition to dadhood a little smoother.

Star Projector

A quality star projector transforms nursery ceilings into magical night skies, creating a soothing environment for bedtime routines. These devices typically offer multiple light modes, timer functions, and sometimes even sound options. 


The gentle moving patterns can captivate babies while providing a calming backdrop for evening feedings and diaper changes. This gift gives dad a special tool for creating memorable bedtime moments with his little one.


Star Projector

Dada Sweatshirt

A comfortable "Dada" sweatshirt celebrates his new title with style and practicality. Choose soft, washable fabrics that stand up to baby messes and frequent laundering. The simple but meaningful design makes it perfect for casual outings or cozy days at home. 


This wearable reminder of his most important role makes for touching first Father's Day photos and becomes a cherished keepsake as the years pass.


Dada Sweatshirt

Cold Brew Coffee Maker

A quality cold brew coffee maker provides the caffeine boost new dads desperately need in a convenient, ready-when-you-are format. These systems create smooth, less acidic coffee that tastes great even when reheated—perfect for interrupted mornings. 


Most models fit in standard refrigerator doors and make enough coffee to last several sleep-deprived days. This practical gift acknowledges the reality of new parent exhaustion while upgrading his essential coffee routine.


Cold Brew Coffee Maker

Toilet Night Lights

Toilet night lights illuminate bathroom visits without harsh overhead lighting that wakes everyone up. These motion-activated devices cast a gentle glow that's bright enough for visibility but soft enough to maintain sleepiness during middle-of-the-night diaper changes or bathroom breaks. 


Many models offer color options and fit discreetly inside the bowl. This surprisingly practical gift solves a common new parent problem while adding a touch of whimsy to nighttime routines.


Toilet Night Lights

Fanny Pack

The modern dad fanny pack offers hands-free storage for essentials during walks, park visits, and quick outings with baby. Today's designs are stylish and functional, with water-resistant materials and multiple compartments for phone, keys, wallet, and baby necessities. 


Adjustable straps ensure comfortable wear across the chest or waist. This practical accessory makes short trips easier without the bulk of a full diaper bag.


Fanny Pack

Smart Speaker and Clock

A smart speaker with integrated clock functions serves multiple purposes in a new dad's life. It plays lullabies, answers frantic middle-of-the-night questions about baby care, sets timers for feedings, and controls smart home features without requiring free hands. 


The visible clock helps track those late-night sessions that blur together. This tech tool becomes command central during those early days of figuring out life with a newborn.


Smart Speaker and Clock

Dad Jokes Collection

A curated collection of dad jokes gives new fathers the ammunition they need to fulfill this important parental role. These books typically contain hundreds of groan-worthy puns and one-liners perfect for developing his dad humor style. The short format makes it easy to read during brief breaks in baby care duties. 


This lighthearted gift acknowledges the fun side of fatherhood while preparing him for the time-honored tradition of embarrassing his kids with terrible jokes.

Dad Jokes Collection

Portable High Chair

A portable high chair that attaches to regular chairs or tables makes family outings significantly easier. These compact, lightweight designs fold down small enough to fit in diaper bags or car storage compartments. 


Look for models with machine-washable fabric and secure harness systems. This practical gift expands the new family's ability to dine out or visit friends while maintaining baby's mealtime routine, giving dad confidence to venture beyond the home.


Portable High Chair

Conclusion

His first Father's Day marks the beginning of countless celebrations of his most important role. The perfect gift acknowledges both the joys and challenges he's experiencing as a new dad. 


Whether you choose something practical that makes daily life easier or something sentimental that captures this special time, what matters most is recognizing his journey into fatherhood. With any of these thoughtful gifts, you'll help make his first Father's Day a memorable milestone in his parenting adventure.

FAQs About First Father's Day Gifts

1. What to get soon to be dad for Father's day?

For an expectant dad, consider gifts that prepare him for fatherhood like "Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads," a custom "Dad-to-Be" sweatshirt, or a quality diaper backpack. Practical items that help him get ready for baby's arrival show thoughtfulness, while personalized keepsakes commemorate this special waiting period before his first Father's Day with baby.

2. What are good gift ideas for Father's Day?

Good Father's Day gifts balance sentiment with practicality. For new dads, consider gifts that make parenting easier like a massage gun for sore muscles, a portable phone charger for capturing baby moments, or a cold brew coffee maker for much-needed caffeine. Personalized items that celebrate his new role, like custom shirts or keychains, also make meaningful gifts that he'll cherish.

3. How can I make my first father's Day special?

Make his first Father's Day special by combining thoughtful gifts with quality time. Start with breakfast in bed, followed by a relaxed day with minimal responsibilities. Create a photo book or frame a special picture of him with the baby. Write a heartfelt card expressing your appreciation for his parenting. Most importantly, give him some guilt-free relaxation time to enjoy his new role.

4. What do dads love for Father's Day?

New dads especially appreciate gifts that acknowledge both their hard work and joy in parenting. They love practical items that solve everyday challenges (like sleep masks or diaper backpacks), technology that helps them document baby milestones, comfortable clothing for baby duties, and meaningful keepsakes. Most importantly, they value recognition of their new role and some time to relax and enjoy their family.

5. How much do you spend on father's Day?

The average spend on Father's Day gifts ranges from $50-$150, but thoughtfulness matters more than price. Our list includes budget-friendly options under $30 (like personalized keychains or sleep masks) alongside more substantial investments like massage guns or smart speakers. The most meaningful gifts consider his specific needs and interests as a new dad, regardless of price point.

Cameron Hayes

Cameron Hayes

Meet Cameron Hayes, the 32-year-old wordsmith behind Embroly LLC's heartwarming content. This self-taught writer turned his passion for family stories into a career, weaving tales of love and laughter from his bustling Chicago home office. With six years in the content creation world, Cameron has mastered the art of making Gen X and millennials alike misty-eyed over their morning coffee. When he's not crafting the perfect emotional hook, you'll find him attempting DIY projects or coaching little league. His gift-giving advice is significantly more reliable than his home improvement skills.

Leave a comment


Also in Gift Ideas & Inspiration

Father's Day Activities for Seniors
24 Father's Day Activities for Seniors: At Home & Outdoors Ideas

April 18, 2025 9 min read

Looking for Father's Day activities for seniors? We have 24 ideas including national park visits, home celebrations, and family activities everyone will enjoy.
Read More
Mother's Day Activities: Ideas To Celebrate Every Mom
30 Mother's Day Activities: Ideas To Celebrate Every Mom

April 02, 2025 12 min read

Explore our list of 30 Mother's Day activities, including ideas for wives, seniors, kids, and the whole family to create meaningful celebrations.
Read More
Mother's Day Activities for Kids
25 Mother's Day Activities for Kids: Have Fun with Mom & Dad

April 01, 2025 11 min read

Looking for Mother's Day activities for kids? This dad-approved guide offers 25 fun ways for children to show mom love, including crafts and outing ideas.
Read More