What to Get a New Mom: Stuff She’ll Actually Use
Abbie Clark
Becoming a mama is BIG. It’s a life-changing experience that is exciting, amazing, hard, and exhausting all at the same time. With this change comes a few new needs. Let’s take a look at what to get a new mom. Don’t worry, it’s all things a new mama actually needs (and a few things she probably wants).
What Do New Moms Need?
One of the most important things to keep in mind as a new mom is that your needs will be different than they were before you had a baby. You may find that you have less time and energy to devote to yourself, and that your priorities have shifted. Remember Mama, it’s important to take care of yourself so that you can take care of your baby.
Here are some tips to help you understand and meet your needs as a new mom:
- Rest when you can: It’s important to get enough rest, but as a new mom, it can be challenging to find time to sleep. Try to take advantage of any downtime you have during the day to rest, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Ask your partner or a family member to watch the baby while you take a nap or a shower.
- Eat well: Eating a healthy and balanced diet is important for your overall health and well-being, as well as for breastfeeding if you choose to do so. Try to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This will also help your milk supply!
- Take care of your mental health: Becoming a new mama is great, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming, and it’s important to take care of your mental health. Talk to your midwife, doctor, or a mental health professional if you are feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed. Joining a new moms’ group or finding a support network can also help a ton!
- Make time for yourself: Although your baby will be your top priority, it’s important to make time for yourself. This can be as simple as taking a walk, reading a book, praying, taking a bath, or having a cup of tea. It’s important to do things that make you happy and help you relax.
What to Get a New Mom
Choosing the perfect gift for a new mom can seem hard, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect gift that she’ll love:
Consider Her Needs
As a new mom, she may have specific needs that she hasn’t had before. For example, she may need items that will help her relax, such as a cozy robe or some bath salts that will help her to heal. She may also need items to help her stay organized, such as a diaper bag or a baby carrier. Think about her lifestyle and what would make her life EASIER -not cluttered.
Think About Her Style
Just because she’s a new mom doesn’t mean she’s lost her sense of style. Consider her personal style when choosing a gift. If she loves to accessorize, consider a piece of jewelry or a stylish diaper bag. If she’s more practical, consider a gift that will help her with her daily routine, such as a baby carrier or a nursing pillow.
Personalize It
A personalized gift is always a great option. Consider a personalized necklace or bracelet with the baby’s name or birthdate. A personalized photo album or picture frame is also a great option. If you’re not sure what to personalize, consider a gift card to a store where she can customize her own gift.
Get Her Something She Wouldn’t Normally Buy for Herself
As a new mom, she may be focused on buying things for her baby and not herself. Consider getting her something she wouldn’t normally buy for herself, such as a spa day or a fancy dinner out. This will show her that you care about her well-being and want her to take care of herself too.
Necessities for New Moms
Congratulations on becoming a new mom! Here are some essential items that will help you take care of your baby and yourself.
Baby Care Essentials
When it comes to taking care of your baby, there are a few items that you can’t do without. These include:
- Diapers and wipes: Your baby will go through a lot of diapers and wipes, so it’s important to have a steady supply. Consider buying in bulk to save money.
- Baby clothes: Your baby will need some clothes, especially in the first few months when they grow quickly. Make sure you have a mix of onesies, sleepers, and outfits for going out. From personal experience, you may not need as many outfits as you think. My baby hung out in a diaper most of the time. In fact, we have SEVERAL outfits he didn’t even get to wear because of how fast babies grew, and how little time he actually spent in clothes.
- Baby carrier: A baby carrier is a great way to keep your baby close while you go about your day. It’s also a great way to bond with your baby.
- Breastfeeding supplies: If you plan on breastfeeding, you’ll need a few things like nursing bras, nursing pads, and a breast pump.
Postpartum Care Items
After giving birth, your body will need time to heal. Here are some items that will help you take care of yourself:
- Maxi pads: You’ll need a lot of maxi pads in the first few weeks after giving birth. Make sure you have a supply on hand.
- Adult Diapers: I preferred these over the maxi pads. They hold a lot and are surprisingly comfy.
- Perineal spray: Perineal spray can help soothe and heal your perineum after giving birth. Look for a spray that contains witch hazel and aloe vera.
- Nursing pads: Nursing pads will help absorb any breast milk that leaks between feedings. You definitely want a few of these to wear while you’re out and about. Look for pads that are soft and absorbent. You can find both reusable pads and pads that you can toss in the trash when you’re done with them.
- Stool softener: After giving birth, you may experience constipation. Plus, that first poop is a little scary and you’ll want everything to be as soft as possible. A stool softener can help make your bowel movements more comfortable.
Remember, every mom and baby is different, so what works for one may not work for another. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your baby.
Practical Gifts
As a new mom, practical gifts can be a lifesaver. Here are some ideas that will make their life easier:
Meal Prep and Delivery Services/ Food
One of the biggest challenges for new moms is finding time to cook. Meal prep and delivery services can be a great option for busy moms who want to eat healthy but don’t have the time to cook.
Make that mama a homecooked meal! Believe me, she will be grateful. A friend from church made me a baked chicken after I had Jackson and I literally cried when I ate it because of how happy I was. Freezer meals are also a great option so that she can cook it whenever she needs and wants it! Here’s a list of yummy postpartum freezer meals she might enjoy.
If you don’t want to cook, get her a gift card to her favorite fast food place or even a DoorDash card. The goal it to make getting food as easy as possible for her and her family.
You could also consider gifting a subscription to a meal prep or delivery service like Blue Apron, HelloFresh, or Freshly. These services can save new moms time and energy, and provide them with healthy and delicious meals.
Cleaning and Home Maintenance Services
Cleaning and home maintenance can be difficult to keep up with when you have a new baby. And honestly, it should be the last thing on a new mama’s mind. Consider gifting a cleaning or home maintenance service to save her some stress and help her keep her home in order.
Services like Merry Maids, Molly Maid, or Handy can provide deep cleaning services, regular cleaning services, or even handyman services for home repairs. This can be a great gift for new moms who want to keep their home clean and organized but don’t have the time or energy to do it themselves.
Gifts That Promote Rest and Relaxation
As a new mom, rest and relaxation are essential for your well-being. After all, you need to be at your best to take care of your little one. Here are some gift ideas that can help you unwind and recharge:
1. Aromatherapy Diffuser
An aromatherapy diffuser can help create a calming atmosphere in your home. You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to the diffuser, and it will release a gentle mist that can help you relax. Some popular essential oils for relaxation include lavender, chamomile, and ylang-ylang.
2. Bath Salts
Taking a warm bath can be a great way to unwind after a long day. Bath salts can make the experience even more luxurious AND healing. Bath salts come in a variety of scents and colors, and they can help moisturize your skin and relieve stress. I recommend Epsom salts with a few drops of lavender essential oil to promote healing and relaxation.
3. Weighted Blanket
A weighted blanket can help you feel more grounded and relaxed. The extra weight can provide a sense of comfort and security, which can be especially helpful if you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed. Just make sure to choose a blanket that’s the right weight for you.
If you’re bed sharing with your baby, I would not recommend getting a weighted blanket. Better safe than sorry.
4. Sleep Mask
Getting enough sleep can be a challenge for new moms. A sleep mask can help block out light and create a more conducive sleeping environment. Look for a mask that’s comfortable and adjustable, so you can get the best possible fit.
5. Noise Machine
A noise machine will not only help the mama to sleep, but also the baby. That’s a win-win in my book!
6. Journal
Journaling is a great way to release stress and anxiety. If you know the mama likes to write or might benefit from journaling, buy her a journal.
Pampering Gifts for New Moms
Who deserves pampering more than a new mama? Here are a few ideas for some pampering gifts:
Spa and Wellness Gifts
A spa or wellness gift is a great way to help a new mom relax and unwind. Consider getting her a gift certificate for a massage, facial, or other spa treatment. You can also create a DIY spa kit or buy one off Etsy with items like bath salts, candles, and a cozy robe. Real Simple suggests giving new moms presents that promote rest, relaxation, and self-care, like a cozy robe, face mask, or eye gels.
Fashion and Beauty Gifts
Fashion and beauty gifts can help a new mom feel confident and put-together. Consider getting her a stylish diaper bag or a piece of jewelry with her child’s birthstone.
Alternatively, you can create a beauty gift basket with items like skincare products, makeup, and hair accessories.
Personalized Gifts
Personalized gifts are a great way to show a new mom that you care. Here are a few ideas for personalized gifts that any new mom would love:
Customized Jewelry
Jewelry is always a great gift, but it’s even better when it’s personalized. Consider getting the new mom a necklace or bracelet with her baby’s name or initials on it. This is a great way for her to keep her little one close to her heart even when they’re not together.
Photo Gifts
Photos are a great way to capture memories, and they make great gifts too. Consider getting the new mom a personalized photo book or a framed print of her favorite family photo. This is a great way for her to remember those special moments with her baby.
Monogrammed Items
Monogrammed items are a classic gift that never goes out of style. Consider getting the new mom a monogrammed tote bag or a set of monogrammed towels. This is a great way for her to add a personal touch to her everyday items.
Customized Clothing
Clothing is always a great gift for a new mom, but it’s even better when it’s customized. Consider getting the new mom a personalized onesie or a t-shirt with her baby’s name on it. This is a great way for her to show off her new bundle of joy.
Gifts That Keep Giving
When it comes to gift-giving, it’s always nice to give something that keeps on giving. For new moms, this can mean a gift that will help them out in the long run, or something that will bring them joy for months to come.
Subscription boxes are a great way to give a gift that keeps on giving. There are a variety of subscription boxes available that cater to new moms, from boxes filled with baby clothes and toys to boxes filled with self-care items for mom. Some popular subscription boxes for new moms include Bluum, Ecocentric Mom, and Birchbox.
This article is a lifesaver for anyone looking to find the perfect gifts for a new mom! Abbie Clark breaks down the essentials, from practical necessities to thoughtful pampering gifts. The insight into what new moms actually need versus what they want is spot on. It’s a comprehensive guide that covers every aspect of a new mom’s life. Excited to use this as a go-to resource for upcoming baby showers! 🍼🌸