The Best Gifts For New Moms (That They’ll Actually Love)

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Becoming a new mom is an unforgettable experience (and the best thing I’ve ever done in life), but it’s also overwhelming. New moms are dealing with sleepless nights and hormone changes, and they’re also learning all about this new human that they just brought home. A thoughtful gift can be such a great way to show a new mom that you’re thinking of her.

If you’re searching for the perfect new mom present, I’ve pulled together a list with a handful of practical things and some indulgent finds just for her that will make any new mom feel appreciated and seen. We’re talking ideas from under $50 to totally splurge-worthy (think push-present ideas). Let’s get to it.

The Best Gifts For New Moms (That They’ll Actually Love)

Under $50

Snack Basket

Snacks were my lifeline during those early weeks with a newborn. I remember one friend brought me a snack basket of things that could be eaten one-handed. Having pre-cut fruit, granola bars, trail mix, lactation cookies, and dark chocolate within arm’s reach made such a difference, and I couldn’t get over how thoughtful it was of her to think about my being one-handed while holding my baby. You could add a water bottle and electrolytes to level up the basket; Owala is my favorite water bottle since it has a straw but can be chugged through an open mouth, too.

Read my blog post on LMNT Electrolytes here.

Coordinate a Meal Train

I can’t tell you how much a meal train helped me after my baby was born. Knowing that friends and family had signed up to bring meals on specific days took a huge weight off my shoulders. It was such a thoughtful gesture that reminded me how much support I had during that time. Bonus points if you take a home-cooked meal since takeout gets old fast! MealTrain.com is a great place to organize this.

Do Tasks Around the House

Honestly, I don’t recommend offering to hold the baby unless mom knows that she needs to go take a shower or a nap, etc. Most moms want to hold their baby! (Many moms know that everyone wants to hold their baby, so they may offer it up– but don’t expect it and don’t ask).

Instead, offer to do all the other things so she can focus on snuggling– fold laundry, order groceries and put them away, empty the dishwasher, vacuum, pick up prescriptions, etc.! 

Since I had complications post-delivery, one of my friends sat with me at the hospital and submitted a request for at-home lactation support. She even took care of all the insurance stuff they requested since my wallet was right there for her to grab my card. A year later, I still haven’t forgotten that she did that for me.

Take the Other Kids for a Playdate

As a mom of two, I’ll never forget the friends who offered to take my older one for a playdate or dinner. It gave me a chance to focus on my newborn and have a quiet house. Trust me, this gift is priceless for moms with older kids, especially those who don’t have grandparents in town to help. 

Breastfeeding Essentials

Breastfeeding came with its own challenges, and having the right tools made all the difference for me. A set of nipple creams, silverettes, and a cozy nursing pillow were absolute game-changers. While I bought all of these myself, you could certainly gift them and say that they were your favorites while breastfeeding. Extras of anything never hurt, so don’t fret if they already have something!

A Thoughtful Devotional

I recently learned about this book, To Light Their Way: A Collection of Prayers and Liturgies for Parents, and I think it’d be a great gift for a new or expecting mom. It’s full of prayers for specific things like a sibling who’s expecting a new baby, stressful mornings, the first day of school, feedings, and even prayers to pray while you’re on stroller walks.

Around $150

Nice Pajamas or Loungewear

Comfort was everything for me as a new mom, and having soft, high-quality pajamas or loungewear made me feel put together even on the longest days. My favorites were made from breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo—perfect for lounging and nighttime feedings. Extras are definitely appreciated since the night sweats post-delivery are intense!! I often changed pajamas 3-4x a night. This DreamModal Kimono Three-Piece Set in Parisian Green Pencil Stripe from LAKE is the perfect gift for a new mom since the tank is made for nursing.

I also have a blog post with a roundup of my favorite non-PJ loungewear that you can read here.

Ember Coffee Mug

I lost count of how many times I reheated the same cup of coffee. That’s why I loved my Ember coffee mug—it kept my drink at the perfect temperature for hours. It was such a small luxury that made a huge difference. This is one of my go-to new mom gifts.

LAKE Robe

I splurged on a LAKE robe after I had my first baby, and it was worth every penny. It’s both practical and luxurious. If she has a winter robe, get her the LAKE Cozy Robe. Moms with new babies in the warmer months will likely appreciate a Pima Cotton Robe more.

Daily Harvest Box of Smoothies

Finding time to prepare nutritious meals was challenging, but having a box of Daily Harvest smoothies in the freezer saved me. I could just blend one and have a quick, healthy meal or snack. I have a full review of Daily Harvest on the blog here. Use promo code TERI for 15% off your first order when you spend $100+.

DoorDash Gift Card

While we had dinner provided for multiple weeks, I struggled to get healthy lunches. So, having DoorDash gift cards so I could get lunch delivered was amazing! You can also have DoorDash delivered as a gift at any time, so feel free to send that new mom and dad some yummy dessert on a night that they may not expect it.

Spoil Them!

These options are a bit pricier, but I promise a new mom will love them.

Sleep Consultant

Sleep deprivation was one of the hardest parts of new parenthood for me. Gifting a session with a sleep consultant can be a game-changer. I wish I’d had this resource during those early weeks to help me and the baby establish healthy sleep habits. We love Molly from Sleep Shore. I believe code “terilyn” will give you a discount.

Postpartum Doula Hours

Having a postpartum doula was one of the best investments I made. She provided emotional and physical support when I needed it most, helping with breastfeeding, newborn care, and just being a calming presence. If you want to give a truly priceless gift, this is it. If you’re local, I could not recommend Margo from Born with Margo enough.

Personalized Necklace

One of the sweetest gifts I received with my first was a delicate necklace with my baby’s initials. It was such a sentimental keepsake that I wear every day, and I was able to add another initial when I had my second baby. The exact necklace I have is the HART Studio Mama Initial necklace. You can add additional charms for additional children.

Jenni Kayne Slippers

I was gifted a pair of Jenni Kayne slippers one year for Christmas, and they quickly became my favorite thing. The soft lining made them incredibly comfortable, and the timeless design meant I felt stylish even when I was just lounging at home. They were exactly what I needed to feel pampered during those early days.

Final Thoughts

No matter what you choose, the key to finding the best gift for a new mom is thoughtfulness. By considering her needs and the challenges of new motherhood, you’re sure to pick a present that’s not just appreciated but truly loved.

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