Whats an appropriate amount to spend on a baby gift for someone? I mean most people spend under $10 and buy things like pacifiers and receiving blankets that never get used cause they are cheap but how much is appropriate for a useful item off a registry?

It would really depend on who was having the baby. I'd spend more on my sister or best friend, than a distant cousin or acquaintence. My rule of thumb, though, is I don't buy newborn clothes or diapers (she'll probably get too many), bottles or formula (I don't believe in them), or pacifiers (some mothers don't like them).
If it's someone I am not too close to, I usually do about $15-$20 for a pack of diapers and wipes, and maybe a 6 month outfit or a small toy. If it's close friends or family, I spend about $40-$50 on something that could come in handy, like a bumbo or excersaucer.

I think it depends, or some like to think it does as to how close you are to the family. Are you going to be there with the child growing up a good deal, are you a distant friend or family member and so on. I dont think any ammount is wrong it just depends what you get and if its really needed or not. :)

It would really depend on who was having the baby. I'd spend more on my sister or best friend, than a distant cousin or acquaintence. My rule of thumb, though, is I don't buy newborn clothes or diapers (she'll probably get too many), bottles or formula (I don't believe in them), or pacifiers (some mothers don't like them).
If it's someone I am not too close to, I usually do about $15-$20 for a pack of diapers and wipes, and maybe a 6 month outfit or a small toy. If it's close friends or family, I spend about $40-$50 on something that could come in handy, like a bumbo or excersaucer.

I ended up spending $10 as I spent $30 on their wedding gift since I was one of the few how knew they were eloping. She got baby clothes from like everyone. I almost does laughing at all the outfits, especially the ones she will never use because they were pastels and cute. *shakes head*