Is Perfume an Appropriate Gift for a Christening or Baptism?
Perfume for the baby itself is not appropriate, since infants should not wear fragrance on their skin, but a thoughtful perfume or home fragrance gift for the parents or godparents can be a lovely way to mark the occasion instead.
Why Not for the Child Being Christened
The same reasoning that applies to any baby gift applies here — a newborn or young infant’s skin is too delicate for alcohol-based fragrance, so a “baby perfume” gift is best avoided regardless of how it is marketed. Our guide to perfume safety for families and children covers exactly why.
Where Perfume Still Fits This Occasion
- A nicely presented perfume for the parents as a small personal treat amid a busy, emotional day
- A keepsake gift such as a beautifully packaged bottle for a godparent to give in later years
- A gentle home fragrance for the family home rather than anything aimed at the child directly
If you would still like the gift to feel connected to the child’s milestone, consider something symbolic and keepsake-oriented rather than a fragrance meant to be worn by the baby now. Our perfume gift guide, part of the complete guide to perfume, has more occasion-based ideas.














