36 Best Gifts for New Moms That She’ll Actually Use
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36 Best Gifts for New Moms That She’ll Actually Use
Between middle-of-the-night feedings, the seemingly never-ending dirty diapers, and taking care of her own well-being, few people have more on their plate than a new mom after birth. So it only makes sense that the best Mother's Day gifts for new moms would help make the transition to motherhood more manageable, as well as promote rest, relaxation, and self-care—which, let’s face it, she needs.
But here’s the thing: Her world orbits around that precious newborn baby, and as generous as a spa gift card may be, chances are she’s not quite ready to leave her child in the hands of someone else for the day. Not to mention that while baby-focused presents might seem like the easiest—and perhaps most obvious—route, she’s probably received enough onesies, burp cloths, and bottles to last well past the toddler years. (If she hasn’t, check out the items Katy Perry recommended while shopping for Gayle’s favorite daughter and first-time mom Kirby.)
Instead, when shopping for a first-time mom or a new mom-to-be—whether for Mother's Day, her birthday, a baby shower, or just because—we recommend looking for something that’ll help make her new job title easier. Think pampering gifts (like a comforting weighted blanket or trendy bath salts), life-simplifying gadgets (hello, Instant Pot!), and incredibly useful gear (do not miss: the temperature-controlled coffee cup)—all of which work well in a lovely gift basket. And, of course, you can’t go wrong with a personalized piece of jewelry that’ll keep her little one close.
Ahead, we’ve gathered the best gift ideas for a new mom—including a highly rated stroller organizer on Amazon, a statement-making desk accessory on Etsy, and a delicate necklace that’s the perfect gift from new dads—all of which will make her special day even more memorable.
Temi Oyelola - 2/37
Taco and Taquito Matching Outfit
Tstars
amazon.com
$27.95
Cuteness alert! If she's not drinking margaritas just yet, consider this taco-riffic outfit the next best thing. (We recommend including actual tacos and taquitos in your gift, too.)
amazon.com - 3/37
Flower Subscription
bloomsybox.com
$49.99
If you'd love to be there to support her, but are keeping your distance, try a gift that keeps on giving—like a flower subscription that sends a beautiful bouquet to her doorstep each month.
BloomsyBox - 4/37
Stroller Organizer for Smart Moms
Ethan & Emma
amazon.com
$31.99
Mom could really use another set of hands—there's only so much she can juggle with the two she's got. This stroller organizer is the next best thing. It offers ample room to keep all the essentials—her coffee, phone, wallet, keys, and more—while she's out and about.
Amazon - 5/37
Pink Stork Flakes: Pregnancy Bath Salt
Pink Stork
amazon.com
$18.99
In those first few weeks after delivery, bath time isn't just about relaxing—it's essential to help keep things clean and promote healing. These bath salts are specially formulated to improve magnesium levels in the body, which is thought to reduce aches and pains and relieve stress and anxiety.
Amazon - 6/37
Go the F**k to Sleep
Akashic Books
amazon.com
$14.35
The sleep deprivation is real, and sometimes the only way to cope is with a good attitude and a little humor. This bedtime story definitely isn't for baby, but it will give mom a good laugh.
Amazon - 7/37
The Story of You Baby Book
Artifact Uprising
artifactuprising.com
$99.00
Consider this the gift that keeps giving: This one-of-a-kind photo journal is filled with thoughtful prompts (like "our favorite place to snuggle" or "you have everyone smiling when you") to help mom document every detail of her baby's first year, and create a treasured keepsake that can eventually be passed down.
Artifact Uprising - 8/37
Organic Nipple Butter
Earth Mama
amazon.com
$22.38
At first glance, this gift is far from exciting, but—trust us—she'll thank you after a few days of breastfeeding or pumping. The incredibly rich cream is packed with a moisturizing mix of organic ingredients, including cacao seed, shea, and mango butters, as well as olive oil and calendula flower extract.
amazon.com - 9/37
Gisele Sleep Shirt
Eberjey
amazon.com
$98.00
We'll spare you the details, but when you're recovering from childbirth and tending to a newborn, cozy loungewear is crucial. These pajamas are luxuriously soft, slip easily over her head, and won't rub a c-section scar.
Amazon - 10/37
Silky Soft Swaddle Blanket
aden + anais
amazon.com
$48.95
A brand favored by celebrities and royals (Kate Middleton wrapped little George up in a swaddle blanket from this Brooklyn-based brand when she took him home from the hospital), this durable option is made of 100 percent viscose from bamboo.
amazon.com - 11/37
CozyChic Ribbed Hooded Robe
Barefoot Dreams
amazon.com
$158.00
"What I know for sure: A yummy-feeling bathrobe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser," Oprah declared this year when she included this bathrobe in her Favorite Things gift guide. "And some days a robe (and pj’s) may be the outfit of the day, so it needs to be great." This likely doubly applies to new moms, so she will definitely appreciate this super-soft ribbed robe.
Gregor Halenda - 12/37
Adult Weighted Blanket, 15lb
Casper
amazon.com
$179.00
This weighted blanket makes the perfect companion for a new mom. It calms and comforts, relieves anxiety, and provides warmth during middle-of-the-night marathon feeding sessions.
amazon.com - 13/37
"Experimenting with Babies: 50 Amazing Science Projects You Can Perform on Your Kid"
Shaun Gallagher
amazon.com
$14.29
New moms spend a lot of their time with their bundle of joy (because, duh). This book will make that cutie pie even more fun by guiding her through 50 simple, fun science projects that shed light on how her kiddo is acquiring new skills, from recognizing faces and voices to understanding new words and learning to walk.
amazon.com - 14/37
Bamboo Bathtub Tray Caddy
Bambüsi
amazon.com
$36.99
A trip to the spa simply might not be in the cards, but a luxurious bath (while someone else is on baby duty) is the next best thing. This sleek bath tray will sit across mom's tub and keep all the essentials—ahem, wine and a candle—within arm's reach. Add some bubble bath to complete the gift.
amazon.com - 15/37
Rough Draft Large Spiral Notebook
ban.do
amazon.com
$15.95
Everyone says that raising a child is hard work—but that doesn't make dealing with all the feelings any easier. This notebook reminds her just how capable she is, plus gives her a private place to sort through all of her emotions.
Amazon - 16/37
Newborn Essentials Gift Set
Gryph & IvyRose
amazon.com
$76.00
She's already using enough brainpower to plan this week's dinner menu, manage around-the-clock feedings, check in with friends and family members, and figure out how to catch up on sleep—so save her a dreaded trip to the store with this trio. It includes a gentle body wash, body oil, and combo shampoo and conditioner, all of which are pediatrician-approved.
Amazon - 17/37
Presse by Bobble Coffee & Tea Maker
Bobble
amazon.com
$24.99
When you have to lug car seats and strollers in and out of the car, that extra stop at the coffee shop just doesn't seem worth it. This sleek travel mug lets her brew premium coffee en route, so she doesn't have to go without.
Amazon - 18/37
Ring Adjustable Sling Baby Carrier
Moby Wrap
buybuybaby.com
$58.99
When you have a brand new baby, sometimes babywearing is the best (and only) way to get anything done. This wrap is safe and comfortable for both mom and baby, plus it's so pretty, it doubles as a fashion accessory.
buybuybaby.com - 19/37
Imagine Bubble Bath
Lollia
amazon.com
$42.00
One look at this beautiful vessel of bubble bath and mom will be inspired for a stay-at-home spa night. It will fill the tub with sweet suds of jasmine and mandarin—and an undeniably wonderful aroma. "Simply put, it gives great bubbles," Oprah said this year.
amazon.com - 20/37
Temperature Control Smart Mug 2
Ember
amazon.com
$149.95
Her daily coffee is more important than ever—but, between feedings and diaper changes, there's no chance she'll get through the cup in one sitting. Enter this practical gift, which keeps her coffee or tea at the perfect temperature—anywhere between 120 and 145 degrees, set through a connected app—for as long as she wants.
Amazon - 21/37
The Ellie Nap Dress
hillhousehome.com
$150.00
This comfy "nap dress" will be her maternity leave uniform. The fabric is soft and stretchy, and the delicate floral pattern makes it perfect for spring, summer and vacations. And with motherhood being in the forefront, the smocking makes breastfeeding baby a breeze.
hillhousehome.com - 22/37
Gold Skinny Bar Necklace
Tiny Tags
tinytags.com
$145.00
She's beaming with pride, and this gorgeous necklace lets her share that with the whole world. Engrave one side of the delicate gold bar with her child's name, the other with their birth date.
Tiny Tags - 23/37
Motivational Water Tracker
Venture Pal
amazon.com
$18.99
A breastfeeding mom needs more water than the average person, but remembering to stay hydrated isn't easy when you have a million other things on your to-do list. This water bottle takes the guesswork out of the process, plus offers the motivation she needs when her day gets tough.
Amazon - 24/37
Baja Zen Mermaid Glow Body Buff Scrub
Baja Zen Anthropologie
anthropologie.com
$28.00
There's no such thing as too much self care for a new mom. This ocean inspired sugar-salt scrub gently exfoliates skin with a soothing, moisturizing finish of white coconut and almond oil. All she needs is a fresh hot bath to complete her at-home spa night.
anthropologie.com - 25/37
Mulberry Silk Eyemask
Brooklinen
brooklinen.com
$29.00
Even the busiest new mom needs an uninterrupted break every now and then, which is exactly why we recommend this dreamy eye mask from beloved bedding brand Brooklinen. It's made from extremely breathable mulberry silk and features a stretchy band that's snug, but not too tight. Plus, truly, what's better than the gift of sleep?
Brooklinen - 26/37
Microwavable Slippers
Intelex
amazon.com
$23.60
A new mama's feet deserve a break every once in a while! Treat her to peak coziness all winter long with these microwavable slippers.
amazon.com - 27/37
Ultrasonic Cool Mist Aromatherapy Diffuser
SERENE HOUSE
nordstrom.com
$23.99
As long as she has a newborn in the house, she's going to have to create her own zen. This attractive diffuser blends into the rest of her home's decor while expelling calming and healing essential oils.
nordstrom.com - 28/37
The Essential MAMA Necklace
By Chari
bychari.com
$115.00
She'll proudly display her new title thanks to this dainty necklace from By Chari, the L.A. brand behind the "vote" necklace that Michelle Obama had on at the 2020 Democratic National Convention. It's made with a sterling silver base and heavy 14K yellow-gold plating, and goes with everything (yes, even sweatsuits and pajamas).
By Chari - 29/37
Amazon Prime Membership
Taking a newborn baby out of the house is a logistical nightmare. For starters, there's germs to worry about, diaper bags to pack, and car seats to maneuver. She'd much rather stay home, so give her the gift of free shipping on everything she needs from more diapers to groceries.
Amazon - 30/37
I'm a Cool Mom Candle
TAJA COLLECTION
tajacollection.com
$35.00
Light up any new mom's life with this Mean Girls-inspired candle. Not only can you choose the color and size of the vessel, but you can also pick from one of 15 fragrances, including tropical pineapple, soft vanilla, sandalwood pear, pumpkin pie, and bergamot and cashmere. Plus, you can include your own thoughtful message on the back or sides of the jar.
Taja Collection - 31/37
Silk Pillowcase
Slip
sephora.com
$89.00
If she's not getting much sleep, one of the nicest things you can do is ensure the few hours she has are as rejuvenating as possible. This pillowcase, made of the highest grade mulberry silk, allows skin and hair to glide across the surface, preserving hairstyles and protecting the delicate facial skin.
Sephora - 32/37
Echo Dot
Amazon
amazon.com
$24.99
As much as you'd like to, chances are you can't lend a helping hand every day—so give her a home assistant that can. Amazon's Echo Dot can help her set a timer while sterilizing bottles, order new diapers, or even soothe baby with a lullaby.
Amazon - 33/37
Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker
Instant Pot
amazon.com
$98.00
Ordering takeout every night isn't practical—but neither is cooking when you have a new baby. That's where this handy kitchen tool comes in. This multifunctional electric pot has seven smart features to make getting dinner (or breakfast) on the table much more feasible.
Amazon - 34/37
Organic Body Oil Moisturizer
The Honest Company
amazon.com
$12.99
Just because she doesn't have time for an intensive beauty routine doesn't mean she doesn't want smooth, soft, and glowing skin. This brilliant body oil is formulated with a mighty mix of moisturizing avocado, olive, coconut, and jojoba seed oils—not to mention that it takes just seconds to apply.
amazon.com - 35/37
Wade Diaper Tote
Dagne Dover
dagnedover.com
$200.00
Mom's got her hands full, that's for sure. Help her keep everything (think: diapers, spare outfits, toiletries, bottles, snacks) organized in style. This neoprene tote—available in six cool colors, from heather gray to ash blue—looks like something anyone would covet, but features dedicated pockets and pouches for all the essentials, plus a mini changing mat. Even better? You can donate a portion of the proceeds to one of eight hardworking organizations, including Black Lives Matter, Fair Fight, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, Feeding America, and Stop AAPI Hate.
Dagne Dover - 36/37
Hot Water Bottle with Cover
Willstar
walmart.com
$15.09
There's nothing glamorous about postpartum recovery, but this plush hot water bottle—available in four colors, from coffee to blush—helps make the process feel a little less sterile. It's perfect for soothing aches, pains, cramps, and sore muscles.
Walmart - 37/37
Burt's Bees Hand Repair Gift Set
Burt's Bees
amazon.com
$14.99
Between all of those diaper changes and her dutiful effort to stay germ-free, chances are her hands are taking a beating this winter. This soothing gift set, which includes three nourishing creams and a set of gloves to let everything soak in, will do just the trick to keep her hands looking and feeling good. This also makes a great addition to a gift basket.
Amazon