Containers

• Consider using a container instead of wrapping paper for a baby shower gift. Storage bins or plastic laundry baskets can be used later for storing baby clothes or toys. A diaper bag containing items for baby travel only requires a ribbon and a bow. Baby soap, shampoo, baby brush, lotion, washcloths and other bath time paraphernalia fit snugly into a baby bath tub. Small items such as tweezers, booties, lotion, diaper pins, cotton balls and swabs can be inserted into labeled pockets of an over-the-door shoe organizer. Just roll the organizer up, tie it with a ribbon and top it with a bow. A padded, fully lined baby basket only needs a bow.
  
  

Cloth

• Cloth items also make conversation-worthy wrapping for baby shower gifts. Instead of using wrapping paper, try a tote bag that can be used for baby toys or as a diaper bag, or wrap the gift in receiving blankets. Create a diaper cake by wrapping cloth diapers around a baby bottle, or create a "baby" by using a balloon for the head, a couple of baby towels for the body and place it in receiving blankets. A baby robe makes great gift wrapping and comes with its own ties instead of ribbon. Baby towels and washcloths can also cover smaller presents. A baby sling can hold many smaller wrapped gifts.
  
  

Themed-wrap

• Have the wrap give a clue as to what's inside. If the present is a stuffed dog, wrap the gift in brown craft paper with paw prints on it. Top the gift with a large brown cloth bow decorated with doggie items such as bones, water dishes, leashes and collars.
  
  If the gift is a baby comforter, use variegated tissue paper that has the same color combination as the gift for the wrapping paper and accent with a bow and ribbon of the predominant color of the comforter.
  
  

Accessories

• Small items tucked into the bow give the gift a little something extra. Some suggestions include teething rings, rattles, silver spoons, diaper pins, Christmas ornaments, puppet washcloths, small stuffed animals, baby mittens or booties.
  
  Gift cards from stores for baby--or mom--can be added to the bow for a little extra surprise.
  
  The mother-to-be will appreciate a thank you card attached to the package which has your name and address on the envelope and maybe even a stamp. Inside the card is a list of suggested thank you replies with boxes in front of each where a check mark may be placed to indicate the desired response.
  
  Some ideas for ribbon include a designer scarf for the mom-to-be, or a couple of pink baby headbands with flowers.