Anyone reasonably well acquainted with a newborn has learned this hard truth: the world of babies is vast and bewildering for the uninitiated. Perhaps no one understands this better than a relative, godparent, or friend in search of the perfect baby gift. Ari Lipper, coauthor with his wife Joanna of Baby Stuff: A No-Nonsense Shopping Guide for Every Parent’s Lifestyle, offers these suggestions:

1. Ask if parents have registered for gifts. Having a baby is right up there with getting married when it comes to receiving gifts—but new parents have less time to return what they don’t need. Like newlyweds, many parents now register for baby items they would like to receive.

2. Consider the unnecessary. Think about items parents might like to have, but may not purchase because they’re too busy buying necessities like cribs and diaper pails. The Lippers divide baby stuff into three categories: 1) Must have; 2) Might want; 3) Totally optional. Consider narrowing your gift list to categories 2 and 3.

3. Think strategically. If you’d like to give a present that isn’t a duplicate destined for return, stay away from the most frequently chosen gifts: mobiles, infant carriers, infant seats, front carriers, monitors, bouncer seats, activity gyms, and black-and-white mirrors and toys. And unless you find one you just can’t resist, stay away from stuffed animals; the crib will be crowded enough.

4. Consider a deluxe version. Even if the parents of your tiny pal are inundated with front carriers or diaper bags, you can still make a hit by giving the deluxe version of these items. Also consider luxury clothing like embroidered booties or a cashmere hat and sweater set.

5. Think keepsakes. Silver picture frames or baby cups, spoons or porringers engraved with the child’s name or initials will delight parents and be cherished keepsakes throughout the child’s life.

6. Watch clothing sizes. Size labels may be little help when you’re trying to decide which teensy outfit to buy. “They can be erratic to say the least,” says Lipper; “babies’ bodies vary so much and grow so fast that clothing sizes can’t be as precise as for adults.” Very often, baby sizes run so small that a six-month outfit given to a five-month-old will be too snug. And be careful with clothing labeled “newborn”: many babies outgrow these outfits before even before they make their appearance!

7. Match size with season. As you cleverly shop for clothes that will fit Baby several months from now, think about the season that will coincide with the size. If you’re not careful, you could wind up giving an adorable snowsuit that will fit perfectly next summer.

8. Shop catalogs. If you’re looking for creative ideas, are short of shopping time, or just prefer the convenience of catalog shopping, you’re in luck. It’s possible to purchase everything from stuffed animals and educational toys to strollers and safety items from the variety of catalogs available. See the Resources section for a few to get you started.

9. Be practical. Avoid baby clothes that are too delicate to withstand repeated washings and stay away from clothes that appear confining or feel rough or scratchy. Don’t buy bottles, cups, or other items in gimmicky shapes that make them hard to clean and invite bacteria growth.

10. Check for safety. To remove any doubt about a product you’re considering, call one of these automated, toll-free hotlines operated by the U.S. government. For child safety seats, call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 800-424-9393. To find out about recalls on other baby products, call the Consumer Product Safety Commission at 800-638-2772