Early 20th C. Baby Shower Etiquette

“The baby shower should be held two or three weeks after the tiny person's arrival. Clothes are usually presented-tiny booties, lace caps, dainty little frocks, and petticoats.” – Early 20th C. baby showers were recommended for after the baby’s birth, as the infant mortality rate was high and many birth defects are now caught and treated early.

Bridal showers have inspired fashionable women to give baby showers. The home is made gay with baby pictures, tiny kewpie dolls, and a profusion of pink and blue baby bows. The gifts that the guests contribute are placed on display and everything is made in pleasing readiness for Mother and Baby.

The baby shower should be held two or three weeks after the tiny person's arrival. Clothes are usually presented-tiny booties, lace caps, dainty little frocks, and petticoats. Diaper showers are appropriate, especially when the gifts include rubber panties, diaper pins, bands, etc… 

Sometimes rattle and toy showers are given, and a recent shower-for the purpose of furnishing the nursery-included such gifts as dainty baby pictures, tiny clothes trees, a little rocking chair, a wardrobe for baby's clothes, and other similar useful gifts. The guests arrange to purchase everything together so that there will be no duplication and so that the pieces of furniture match.

Of course Mother is expected to give a tea or reception to her friends as soon as possible after the shower. — From Lillian Eichler, 1922

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