If you have a family and really live in your home then you know what it’s like to be given gifts with no practical use – like those linen and things bath towels you received as a wedding gift – does anyone really think you’ll be ironing towels? The idea of even entertaining indoors may be a reach on some days, especially when it’s so easy to entertain on the deck or in the backyard. Disposable tablecloths would have been a much more practical gift idea!
Fortunately it’s easy to register for practical and useful gifts – check out the major bed and bath store websites and you’ll find checklists and registries for everything from weddings and baby showers to housewarmings and college checklists. Perhaps you have a child with a birthday coming up – it would be so much better to get something useful and practical instead of more toys. For youngsters a nap mat is a great idea while older kids may prefer sleeping bags, toss pillows or a colorful comforter or bed canopy. Many of the designers popular with teens now have bedding lines available so look for offerings from Roxy and Quiksilver to get something that won’t generate eye rolls or be stuffed into a closet.
If you’re expecting then by all means get practical when you register for new baby gifts. Crib bedding and related accessories are expensive and if you are just starting out it can be overwhelming. Use the registry as your guide and check with other Moms to find out what items they couldn’t live without like a baby monitor or a musical mobile and what items they simply never used.