55 First Father’s Day Gifts That Will Make Him Smile
Becoming a father for the first time is a momentous occasion in any man’s life. And with Father’s Day right around the corner, you’ve got the perfect opportunity to send a little love and appreciation his way. (Don’t forget, Father’s Day falls on the third Sunday in June.) There are many options to mark this special day, but first off you’re going to need a wow-worthy present for the new dad in your life, and stat! Not a problem. We’ve scoured the internet for the best first Father’s Day gifts to bring a smile to his face.
From diaper changes and 3 a.m. feedings to pre-bedtime baths and horse-play, dads have a long list of duties. That’s why our first Father’s Day gift guide is chock full of extra-special gift ideas that celebrate new dads and all that they do. Whether you’re looking for personalized father’s day gifts, high-tech presents, or something totally awesome and equally affordable (think: under $30!), we’ve got some top-rated picks for you. Pro tip: For added “aw-factor,” address the gifts from baby to Daddy! Left your gift hunt to the last moment? Check out our last-minute Father’s Day gift guide for even more shopping inspiration.
Flat out of luck when it comes to first Fathers Day gift ideas? Don’t worry! Our goal is to do the bulk of research for you, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through online retailers. Here are the steps we took to create this article:
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We considered a list of criteria when sourcing first Father’s Day gifts, including quality, price, practicality and style.
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To see what gifts first-time dads actually want, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring forums and message boards and reading user reviews to find out which items performed well for new parents.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.
Personalized book
Make storytime even sweeter with a personalized book all about Dad. It’s written from your child’s perspective and goes through all the wonderful milestones that Daddy and baby will share together. (I’m not crying, you are!) Customize this present with your child’s name and a special dedication message to commemorate his first Father’s Day.
Night sky print
Your family’s love for Dad burns as bright as the stars—which is why this customized print, depicting the night sky the day baby was born, is a perfect first Father’s Day gift idea. Provide the date and location, add a personalized message and pick out the color and frame, and the company will take care of the rest.
Custom portrait
How about a watercolor portrait of Dad and baby? Simply send in a family photo, pick your preferred size and choose a color scheme to create a fully personalized work of art. Creative first Father’s Day gift ideas don’t get much better than this.
3D photo art
Immortalize your favorite photo of Dad and baby inside a crystal. Simply choose a size and submit your photo, and a devoted designer will take care of the rest. For an extra sentimental touch, you can add an engraving at no additional cost.
Cutting board
Is Dad the king of the BBQ in your house? Fire up your Father’s Day gift-giving with this “Grill Master” wood cutting board, engraved with the text of your choice, like his name or a sweet note.
Footprint casting kit
How about a memento to commemorate his first year as a Father? This sweet frame comes with air-dry clay, so you can mold baby’s hand and footprints. Slot a couple of cute family pictures in the side for a sentimental Father’s Day gift he’ll treasure for years to come.
Engraved watch
Watches are a classic first Father’s Day gift—and if you can have one personalized, all the better! This timeless leather watch, which you can have engraved at no additional charge, will take him from desk to dinner and beyond.
Engraved whiskey decanter
Raise a glass to Dad this Father’s Day with a personalized whiskey decanter that you can engrave with his name and title (think: World’s Best Daddy). For an extra-special gift, include the optional glasses and whiskey stones!
Personalized journal
Swanky Badger is home to tons of personalized first Father’s Day gifts. Our top pick? This pocket-sized leather journal. Add Dad’s monogram to the front and a meaningful message inside. The compact design boasts a stash pocket in the front plus two card slots on the back cover, meaning it functions as a wallet too. With 200 lined pages, Dad’s unlikely to run out of space any time soon, but if he does, you can pick up a refill paper pack.
Photo puzzle
Looking for sentimental and simple Father’s Day gift ideas? Puzzles are all the rage these days, and Dad will be excited to complete a collage of memorable family photos.
Personalized T-shirt
Cool dads will appreciate this laidback tee. Aside from the boxy fit and neutral color options, it features a graphic print of Dad and baby. Simply submit a photo for a truly unique Father’s Day gift for new dads.
Photo calendar
How about a wall calendar customized with special dates and occasions? It’s a handy reminder for forgetful dads. Plus, the photos have perforated edges so you can hold on to them to hang elsewhere after each month ends.
Matching pajamas
The best first Father’s Day gift ideas focus on his favorite things. If Dad is a Star Wars mega-fan, treat him to these cool PJs, suitable for pairing with the matching baby size. And, if science fiction isn’t his thing, Little Sleepies has tons of other styles for both dad and baby.
Reel viewer
Take a trip down memory lane with this custom reel viewer. The nostalgic gift comes with a code that lets you redeem one free photo reel. Submit snaps of baby’s first year and you’ll receive a personalized photo viewer right in time for his first Father’s Day celebration.
Meat bouquet arrangement
Here’s a twist on a classic gift—a bouquet of meats presented in a beer glass. This unique first Father’s Day gift comes with eight “stems” of delicious beef jerky.
DIY hot sauce kit
Looking to spice things up for his first Father’s Day? A make-your-own hot sauce kit is the perfect gift idea for new dads. Kids can even help with this one—dip their little fingers in paint and denote how spicy the sauce is by how many fingerprints they leave on the label.
Multi-pocket hoodie
This super soft hoodie was specifically designed with new dads in mind. For times when he doesn’t feel like carrying around a diaper bag, he can simply wear this zip-up—which has expandable mesh pockets for bottles, wipes, hand sanitizer and more—without adding extra bulk.
Stadium poster
For the dad who loves baseball, Uncommon Goods creates blueprints of the stadium of your choice—a first Father’s Day gift that’s sure to knock it out of the park.
Smart garden
If the papa in your life is passionate about fresh produce but doesn’t have the time (or space) to grow his own, he’ll be overjoyed to receive this low-maintenance smart garden. Choose from over 75 pre-seeded plant pots and set up an herb garden in three simple steps: insert the plant pods, add water, plug it in and enjoy. Talk about a blooming-good first Father’s Day gift!
Memory foam eye pillow
What do all parents wish they had more of? You guessed it: sleep. And the best first Father’s Day gifts help him get as much shuteye as possible. The gentle pressure of this memory foam eye mask is profoundly calming and naturally stress-reducing.
Smartphone sanitizer
From making to-do lists to Googling baby questions in the middle of the night, new parents are constantly on their phones. This sanitizing station zaps 99.99 percent of germs while also charging the phone. Plus, it works as an amplifier so Dad can listen to music (or the baby monitor) while his phone’s getting a deep vclean.
Camping chair
If you’re in need of first Father’s Day gift ideas for an outdoorsy dad, this clever camping chair will do the trick. The aircraft-grade aluminum frame is lightweight yet sturdy, while the woven seat ensures Dad always has a comfy perch during excursions to the park with baby. Plus, a leak-proof cooler sits under the seat, so he can keep beverages and snacks cold for up to 12 hours.
T-shirt and onesie set
When it comes to funny first Father’s Day gifts, what’s more apropos than Dad matching his outfit (and favorite beverage) with baby? The photo opportunities in these matching shirts will be absolutely priceless.
Scratch-off activity book
This “bucket list” book includes 100 activities for parents and kids to enjoy together. Each page features a new adventure idea, alongside a scratch off-image and a spot to add notes or a photo from your special day.
Baby-wearing hoodie
If Dad enjoys long walks with baby strapped to his chest, invest in this cozy babywearing sweatshirt. Available in two colors, the cotton blend hoodie has a zip-on pouch that fits over a carrier. Then when dad-duty is done it zips right off again, leaving you with a high quality men’s hoodie. Talk about a perfect first Father’s Day gift for new dads!
Smart mug
New dads are always on the go, so uninterrupted coffee breaks may be a thing of the past. Introducing the temperature control smart mug by Ember. The clever device keeps your favorite beverage warm for up to 80 minutes, so it’s enjoyable from your first sip to the last drop.
Wool sneakers
These merino wool sneakers are comfortable and breathable, earning them a spot on our list of best first Father’s Day gifts for dads that are never off their feet. Allbirds offer kids versions too, so his mini-me can match him in style.
Beard grooming kit
Whether your partner’s been growing a beard or is simply too busy as a new dad for frequent shaves, this styling set will help keep his facial hair in check. It comes with a beard wash, conditioner, oil and a styling comb.
Muscle massager
As a new dad, he’s likely not getting in as many workouts or stretches these days. This popular muscle-massaging device now comes in a more compact—and more affordable—mini version, yet still packs a powerful punch to relieve cramps, knots and tension.
Key finder
Is Dad perpetually looking for his misplaced car keys? This clever device is the answer to frazzled parents’ prayers. Designed with Bluetooth-tracking technology, the organizer can be attached to everyday objects like key rings, and linked with the Tile app on your phone. Simply click “find” on the app and if the Tile Mate is inside the 250-foot range it will start ringing, helping you track down your keys in no time at all. If not, the app will show you the Tile Mate’s most recent location on a map. The alert works both ways: by double clicking a button on your Keysmart, you can find your phone too—genius.
Gaming system
If Dad is just a big kid at heart, a gaming system is a gift for the first Father’s Day that he’s sure to appreciate. The handheld Nintendo Switch lets him play whenever and wherever the mood strikes, and this bundle package includes a free Mario game download!
Diaper backpack
Looking for a cool first Father’s Day gift that’s practical to boot? This diaper backpack is a gamechanger. Made from recycled water bottles, it boasts a simple-yet-stylish design, a padded laptop compartment and a travel-friendly luggage sleeve. The best part? The dad-designed integrated changing station with sidewalls provides privacy and security in restrooms that lack an adequate changing station for baby.
Slip-on shoes
With the plush shearling and soft wool that UGG is known for, this particular slip-on style is perfect for pacing around the house to rock baby to sleep, but also works when running out for an urgent diaper restock.
Baby carrier
Dad will appreciate the ergonomic design features that went into this first Father’s Day gift. The Nuna CUDL keeps baby snuggled close, with an integrated booster seat for newborns, which easily unzips as your child grows. Other features include adjustable shoulder straps, a padded waist belt and magnetic buckles.
Bluetooth speaker
Retro vibes are back in style! For cool dads who appreciate unbeatable sound quality, this mini-amp speaker is just the thing. Combining vintage design with modern-day features, the speaker is portable, rechargeable (with 20 hours of play time!) and boasts Bluetooth connectivity.
Comfy pants
These lightweight, moisture-wicking joggers are perfect for lounging with baby, but are just as practical for running errands outside the home. Plus, multiple zip pockets are great for storing keys, binkies or whatever else Dad needs close at hand.
Water bottle
New dads are always on the go—make sure he stays hydrated with this slick water bottle. The Hydro Flask features double-walled TempShield insulation, meaning it’ll keep beverages icy cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours. Better yet, this stainless steel bottle is BPA-free and dishwasher safe.
Wireless charger
Searching for personalized first Father’s Day gifts for a tech-savvy papa? Check out this cool wireless multi-charging device by Courant. It’s made from premium pebble-grain Italian leather and can be personalized with initials in gold or silver print.
Coffee subscription
One of the best first Father’s Day gifts, hands-down? Coffee, the perfect pick-me-up for new parents. Atlas Coffee Club is a subscription service, so he can relax knowing the house is always fully stocked. Each month he’ll receive 12 ounces of coffee, tasting notes and a postcard from the country of origin.
Smart frame
If Dad works in an office, treat him to a smart frame that he can place on his desk. You can share family photos in an instant and the frame displays them in a slideshow format, so he’ll never miss a moment.
Cookware
If Dad likes to cook up a storm in the kitchen treat him to the pan everyone is talking about. The Always Pan 2.0 literally does it all: It can be used to sear, steam, saute, bake, boil and more! And thanks to the ceramic non-stick coating, this pan will last for years to come.
Smart speaker and clock
This compact smart speaker plays music, makes calls, displays news headlines, tells the time, sets alarms and more. And the best part? It’s voice-activated so he doesn’t have to lift a finger, making it the perfect first Father’s day gift for exhausted parents.
Socks
Socks are a classic gift for dads, but that doesn’t mean you should buy him any old pair. As it’s his very first Father’s Day gift, treat him to this fun “super-dad” set.
AirPods case cover
In search of simple Father’s Day gift ideas for a music or podcast lover? Help Dad protect his AirPods with a stylish leather case cover engraved with his name or initials. It can charge AirPods without him having to remove the case, and it even comes with a keychain clip he can attach to his briefcase or diaper bag.
Tablet stand
For the dad who likes to binge-watch Netflix, gift him this flexible tablet stand, designed to be used while lounging in bed (hopefully with a snack, as all good binge-watching sessions demand!).
Book of quotes
Sports fans will be delighted with this motivational Father’s Day gift for new dads. The playbook, designed for rookie parents, is jam-packed with advice, quotes and insights from dozens of leading sports coaches that’ll put some pep into any new pop’s step.
Fanny pack
Guys that prefer to travel light will be smitten with this trendy fanny pack (seriously, they’re having a moment) from The North Face. It has a key fob loop and plenty of pockets—meaning he’ll have sufficient room for his keys, phone and a spare diaper (of course!).
Beer bottle labels
For a unique first Father’s Day gift, present him with a few bottles of his favorite brew, wrapped in these special labels. From his first dirty diaper change to the first time baby spits up on him, there’ll be a beer waiting in the fridge to mark the milestone.
Hot sauce
Affordable Father’s Day gifts for new dads can still pack a punch. Case in point: This four-piece hot sauce set from TRUFF. Dads that douse every meal with hot sauce are sure to appreciate the handy travel-sized bottles—the perfect accompaniment for meals on the go.
Car organizer
This car organizer is an ideal gift for folks that like to keep their vehicle neat and tidy (which is no simple feat with baby on board!). Thanks to adjustable straps, it attaches to the back of any headrest, and comes complete with a tablet sleeve, insulated bottle holders and pockets for toys and binkies.
New dad mug
This mug is an ideal gift for a man that’s eager to announce his new-dad status—and is in desperate need of caffeine. It features a sweet message and a customized illustration of your growing family.
Custom photo frame
If you’re looking for a memento of the newborn days, this frame would make a wonderful first Father’s Day gift. It’s fully customizable: Choose your preferred background and wording, then add the name of Dad and baby, plus the year for a truly special family keepsake.
Greeting card
If the new dad in your life is a big fan of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, this is the funny first Father’s Day card for you. Purchase a blank card or add a custom message and have it shipped straight to Dad’s door.
Custom keychain
How sweet is this custom keychain? Add a family photo to one side and a sweet message from baby on the reverse. It’s fade-proof, meaning Dad can carry a memento of his first Father’s Day with him forever.
Dad survival guide
Help your partner feel ready for his new parenting role with The New Dad’s Guide to Baby’s First Year—a must-have book that offers fast, fun and helpful tips to ace fatherhood.
About the writer:
Martina Garvey is an editor at The Bump, where she writes and edits e-commerce content for pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. Over an eight-year career in educational publishing and digital media, Martina has developed a keen eye for detail and robust reporting skills. As a staff member on The Bump for over three years, she leverages an in-depth knowledge of must-have baby gear and postpartum essentials alongside a passion for the latest trends to create informative content parents can trust.
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