These Are All the Gifts New Mothers Actually Want (and Need)

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Procuring gifts for new mothers is slightly different than for seasoned moms. Women with newborns and infants tend to want more practical and useful goodies than their more veteran counterparts, who are often happy with breakfast in bed, a hand-written card, and a fragrant bouquet of flowers. So we went ahead and asked some of the House Beautiful editors with babies what they wish they got after their first, and what they’re asking for with their second child. Their answers may surprise you, so keep reading to see what they’re coveting ahead of Mother’s Day this year, which is on May 12.

From a breathable muslin blanket that works hard to prevent inevitable postpartum night sweats to a healthy food subscription service, we’ve listed plenty of options that are new mom-approved, so this Mother’s Day, get the woman with the hardest job in the world something she wants and will actually use. And for the sentimentalists, there are plenty of worthy picks, including a lariat bracelet with an engraved name plate, a “girl mom” mug, and an old-school Polaroid camera to capture all of the cutest moments with her baby.

Luckily, plenty of our favorite finds are available on Amazon, so if you often wait until the last minute to snag your gifts, these will arrive just in the nick of time. That said, if you’re going the customization route, you may want to start brainstorming now because the more personalized touches you add, the longer your gift will take to arrive, and a late Mother’s Day gift is not ideal.

Stone Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Diffuser

Deputy Managing Editor Olivia Hosken, who has a two-year-old daughter and a bun in the oven, says, "Some people are leery of having artificial fragrance around babies and children (I legit have not lit a candle in my house since my daughter was born). Essential oils are the perfect way to have a safe, sweet-smelling house." If you, too, air on the side of caution with your little ones, you'll love an aromatherapy diffuser, which enlists nothing more than just purified water and all-natural essential oils to create the dreamiest custom scentscapes.

Custom iPhone Case

It's our personal opinion that everyone loves a personalized gift, and we cannot overstate the cuteness of this custom iPhone case. You can choose the size, placement, and color of the font (plus the shade of the case itself). Every time they look at their phone, they'll be greeted with their baby's names or initials so it's a sweet gift to give. Plus, between now and March 17, BaubleBar is having a massive sale. Get 25 percent off everything and 20 percent off anything customizable, like this phone case.

Breeze Comforter

Anyone who's had a baby knows that the night sweats are real (and are both totally normal and to be expected), so if you know a new mom or a pregnant woman who's about to become a new mom, give her the gift of a chill night's sleep in the form of Buffy's cooling comforter. No matter how hot she gets, there's no way she'll push it onto the floor: it's that good.

Bespoke Adjustable Bracelet

When you're in your new mom phase of running on no sleep, getting dolled up in jewelry is hardly top of mind, which makes this bracelet the perfect gift. It's adjustable, making it so easy to slide on and off without dealing with difficult clasps. That said, it's also so small and dainty that you won't really feel it on and may forget to even take it off. Lastly, don't forget to get it engraved!

Mulberry Silk Eyemask

"Naps can and should happen at all hours and this is one of the most comfortable silk sleep masks I own," Hosken says. It's likely so comfortable because of its 100 percent mulberry silk composition. If you know a thing or two about silk pillowcases, you know that mulberry silk is the best variety there is for all things bedding.

The Ultimate Diaper Backpack in Black

For new moms who are ready to leave the house and get back into a routine, help make this transition easier by giving them the ultimate diaper backpack. This one features a built-in foldout changing pad, an insulated interior pockets for bottles, a baby wipes pocket, and a removable fanny pack.

Mini Mio Bundle of Joy Gift Set

As its name implies, Mama Mio is a mother-centric brand that arguably makes the best baby skincare on the market. This one includes miniature versions of the brand's best-sellers, including the Sweet Cheeks moisturizer, the Comfort & Calm Bum balm, the Mini Moments massage gel, the Oh So Clean foaming hair and body wash, and the Tub Time bath bubbles.

When You Were Born

No, this is not a children's book about a girl named Emma. It's a personalized baby book all about the newest addition to the family. If you don't fancy yourself a writer, worry not. It's a custom tale based on the letters of the baby's name.

In My Mom Era Hat

Calling all Swifties: This hat would look amazing on you. Whether someone snags it for you or you decide to treat yourself, this hat is the ideal finishing touch on a day you didn't have time to wash your hair.

Breakfast Collection

Any mom would tell you that their needs become secondary to those of their new child, which is why so many new parents totally forget to eat until they hear their stomachs rumble. Take all of the stress out of prepping and eating meals with this delicious breakfast collection from Daily Harvest. Everything is as healthy as it is delicious. Plus, all of the nutrient-dense dishes will give them plenty of energy.

Mini Fridge

"A mini fridge might seem extra, but when you are running up and down to the kitchen to mix formula or store breastmilk, anything that will save you the trip and keep bottles fresh is a lifesaver," Hosken admits. "Bonus: Once the infant days are done this can work in an office or as a skincare fridge." She's not wrong.

The 365 Blanket

"My obsession with this blanket is not new, but there is truly nothing more perfect for hormonal night sweats," Hosken admits. Here's how: It's made of naturally breathable 100 percent pure muslin cotton, making it temperature-regulating to keep you cozy and not sweaty throughout the night.

Apple AirPods

Hosken says, "A pair of wireless headphones to listen to soothing music or audiobooks during late night feedings is a must." After all, running on no sleep can leave you a bit easily agitated, so listening to something to keep you calm when you're holding your little one is key.

Natasha Breakfast Tray

"New moms spend a lot of time in bed recovering in the early weeks, so help make it as comfortable as possible with a sturdy breakfast tray for much-needed meals, snacks, and random storage," Hosken suggests. This one is both durable and elegant, with a painted frame and cane surface.

The Grower's Choice Peony

If you're not sure what to get, you can't go wrong with flowers. Peonies are a crowd-pleasing bloom that any new mother would appreciate. The best part? They can be delivered at any time on any day, which is perfect for mothers with no warning that the baby is coming.

10-Foot USB C Charging Cable

"Extra-long phone chargers are a great gift—especially before the brith—because a lot of new moms bring them to the hospital where the electrical outlets aren't always near the bed," Hosken cautions.

Headboard Wedge Pillow

As Hosken mentioned, new mothers spend a lot of time physically recovering in bed, so making sure it's as comfortable and supportive as it can be is a good idea. This wedge pillow helps keep them upright when feeding. It won't slag or slouch behind them, courtesy of the wedge shape that keeps the pillow in place.

Sushi For Two Gift Set

One thing plenty of foodie moms miss during their nine months of pregnancy is sushi, which makes this sweet sushi set a perfect and kind of funny gift. They may not be able to make the rolls themself, but they can definitely use it to make their takeout cuter.

Gripper Ankle Sock, Set of 4

"I was terrified of slipping and dropping the baby and bought a whole bunch of grippy socks," says Senior Editor Elyse Moody after giving birth to her daughter.

Signature Sleepshirt

Making plans with friends is not usually one of a new mom's top priorities shortly after giving birth. In fact, during those first few weeks, she'll hardly want to change out of her pajamas, which is why you can help make sure everything she's sleeping in is as cozy as it is chic. These pajamas from Boll & Branch are made of the same luxuriously soft fabric as its best-selling sheets.

Bamboo Sheet Set

Speaking of sheets, opting for something easy to care for and highly soft is non-negotiable. Associate Shopping Editor Jessica Cherner tested these Cozy Earth ones out for more than a month and can confirm they are "extremely soft," she says.

VFAN Mini Air Circulator Fan

Not only is this miniature circulator fan cute in that must-be-vintage way, but it does an excellent job at actually keeping you cool. We recommend popping this on her nightstand before bed, when she'll be most prone to the sweats.

Bottle Washer Pro

"This countertop gadget is the size of a regular bottle dryer and sterilizer, but it washes them too: It has individual jets that shoot water into all the nooks and crannies so you don't have to worry about any soap or old milk getting left behind, sterilizes them with steam, and dries them with HEPA-filtered air—in less than half the time of a dishwasher," says Moody.

The Longsleeve Nursing Tee

While nursing tops are meant to be practical above all else, we think they can be cute too. After all, look good feel good, right? So if the new mom in your life can use a bit of a fashion upgrade from her hospital gown, try this charming striped tee from Hatch.

Ceramic Moon Nightlight

We wouldn't advise anyone who's surviving on a few sporadic hours of sleep per night to do anything—not even make a bathroom run—in pitch-black darkness. Enter this sweet nightlight that offers a soft glow to quite literally light the way.

64-Ounce Motivational Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is hard to do even without a newborn to care for, but this half-gallon water bottle makes it a little easier, courtesy of the motivational reminders every few ounces. Not only does staying hydrated keep her systems working at peak function, but it also helps milk come in easier, according to a study conducted by the National Institute of Health.

Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine

Because infant absorption is well under two percent, enjoying a caffeinated beverage is totally safe (as long as it's within the 200 to 300 mg range, according to The Bump), which is great news because few people are in need of a strong espresso like a new mother.

Happy Girl Mom Coffee Mug

Before the boy moms freak out, know that there is an equally adorable boy mom mug on offer. If she's going to have a cup of coffee in the morning (or at any point throughout the day), she may as well enjoy it in a sweet mug.

Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager with Heat

While checking her into her favorite spa for the afternoon may be nothing short of a dream, it's not exactly feasible with a newborn. That's where this heated back and neck massager comes in. Whether she uses it during feedings or naps, she'll definitely unwind well.

Oversized Lounge Set

When friends and family want to stop by to visit the newest member of the family, no one is expecting the new mama to answer the door dressed to the nines, but if she wants to look cute and cozy, a stylish lounge set will always do the trick.

Baby's Daily Log Book

This isn't just a cute notebook for jotting down thoughts she's bound to forget, it also has 152 pages for tracking and monitoring nursing, sleep, feeding, changing, and pumping schedules. It's also the easiest way to stay organized without losing her mind trying to remember all of the little but essential details.

Air Purifier

At first glance, the Mila looks like a stylish end table, but it's actually an easy-to-use air purifier that will keep your baby's tiny airways clean and free of airborne particles like dust, mold, soot, and mildew. When it comes to filter selection, there are two options that will work wonders: The Mama-to-Be and The Rookie Parent, both of which include H12 HEPA filters designed to eliminate dust, pollution, and smoke, and carbon filters to capture VOCs, odors, and gases. The Mila pairs with an app that tells you the room's exact levels, including temperature and humidity, at all times.

Floral Bouquet Bundle

Former Executive Editor Amanda Sims says, "The perfect thing to look forward to after a long day of swaddling, not-napping, and feeding." Giving up wine for nine months is a real sacrifice for some moms. So once the baby comes and she can finally enjoy a glass, she'll want it to be from a quality bottle. Enter this bundle of carefully curated options that are low in both alcohol and sugar.

Portable Hand Vacuum Cleaner

"Something like this is so much easier than getting out the whole vacuum and taking it for a spin," Sims notes. Any new mom can tell you that babies are as messy as they are adorable—especially after about six months when they start noshing on solid food. There's no better way to eradicate the inevitable spills than with a sleek and lightweight hand vac. The best part? It's cordless.

Reed Diffuser

"Her house will be a mess, but at least it will smell amazing," Sims adds. Another mess that comes with infants? Spit-up, which isn't exactly a trip to the local parfumerie. This Capri Blue diffuser may not limit the spit-up incidents, but it'll definitely help mask the smell with its subtle notes of tropical fruit. If you've ever visited an Anthropologie store, you'll recognize the heavenly scent.

Baby Massager

Massages are a luxury meant to be enjoyed by all ages—even newborns. Kahlmi's baby massager, which includes the soothing wand and three interchangeable massage heads, not only totally relaxes newborns, but it can also soothe them while they experience any kind of natural discomfort, including teething, gas, or colic. Plus, giving your little one a massage can improve digestion, sleep, and even your bond.

Faux Wandering Prayer Plant

The last thing new mothers need is another precious thing to nurture, but that doesn't mean they want to come home to an empty, lifeless home. Plants, even faux ones, are mood-boosting decorations that can make her space feel warm and welcoming.

Always Pan

New moms may not have the time to whip up elaborate meals, but that doesn't mean they have to stop cooking altogether. That's why we're recommending a reliable nontoxic pan that's also the most versatile piece of cookware on offer. If you want to go above and beyond, get her a one-pan recipe book too.

Now I-Type Instant Camera

We know these types of cameras are old-school, but that's what makes them fun. Plus, if you're looking for a way to spruce up your refrigerator, nothing is cuter than a collection of baby Polaroids.

Amalfi Notebook

Baby brain, the mental fogginess that often supplements pregnancy, can persist well after the bundle of joy comes. So get your forgetful friend a notebook to keep track of everything she needs to remember. She can also use it as a scrapbook for all things baby.

Thank You Cards, Set of 10

Sims offers, "Getting through her list of thank-you notes will be way easier with cute cards." One of the many benefits of having a baby is the myriad gifts she'll get—both for herself and the newborn. A set of 10 thank-you cards is a shoo-in when it comes to thoughtful gifts she'll actually use.

Laundry Starter Set

One of the best gifts for new moms is this Blueland laundry starter kit, which may sound like an odd present, but hear us out: No one does more laundry than new parents with an infant. From spit-up to diaper leaks, there are a lot of smelly messes to deal with, and in our opinion an all-natural laundry detergent is a great solution.

Formula Pro Advanced Dispenser

"I've heard new moms swear by this; it takes the hassle out of making a bottle when you're bleary-eyed. It's pricey, so most new moms don't buy it for themselves! Perfect gift," Sims explains. Instead of shaking up new bottles, just keep formula powder in the top and hit the button when you're ready for a fit. Set the temperature just how your little one likes it.

Neat Steam Cleaner

We've mentioned it before and we'll mention it again: Babies spill things and spit up—often with no warning. There's no reason why such accidents should ruin your furniture, so as soon as there's a spill, leak, or spit up, reach for this easy-to-use cleaning cube, which will freshen up your space in a matter of minutes.

Sophie Faux Fur Throw Blanket

New moms will want to take advantage of any opportunity they have to catch a few zzz's, even if only for a few minutes at a time. These super soft faux-fur throw blankets will create the ultimate cozy nap experience. The punchy colors certainly don't hurt, either.

Organic Burp Cloths for Baby Boys and Girls

"There's really no limit to how many burp cloths you need. They get icky quick, so replenish her stash if you can," Sims says. Burping cloths not only provide a soft and plush place for newborns to rest their chubby cheeks on, but they also protect mom's clothes from getting covered in spit up.

Bath Towel

Sometimes baby messes can happen on the mom, so a set of bath towels makes for a great gift (bonus points if you get them monogrammed).

Restore

Rest is hard to come by for most new parents, so creating the perfect environment to recharge is essential. Our product of choice? Hatch's Restore machine, which is an alarm clock, sound machine, and ambient light in one.

Valencia Candle

A fancy candle is always a good gift, no matter the occasion. With notes of jasmine, neroli, rose, cedar, musk, and vetiver, this one has a velvety fresh scent that any new parent can appreciate.

Eau de Parfum

For new moms who don't have much time for a luxuriously long shower, a spritz or two of perfume will at least make them feel fresher. This eau de parfum by Chloé is our favorite because it's light and floral in all the right ways.

Initialed Stroller Blanket and Knitted Hat

This matching stroller blanket and knitted hat set is so cute, we couldn't resist adding it to our list. After all, they're both things babies need. They're also customizable, which makes them sentimental and sweet.

Baby Stats Silver Cuff Bracelet

This simple silver cuff has the birth stats of her baby engraved on the inside for only Mom to see. You could go the extra mile to gift her a second and even third bracelet, all engraved with different tributes. For example: you could get her partner's name engraved or even the family pet's.

6-Quart Multi-Cooker

Make cooking meals even easier for new parents with the Instant Pot, which works as a slow cooker, pressure cooker, rice cooker, yogurt maker, and food warmer, and can sauté and steam foods too.

Monthly Milestone Blanket

For the mom who can't resist an adorable Instagram, gift this milestone blanket and frame set, perfect for posing her little one each month until their first birthday.

Silk Hair Ties

Constantly being crunched for time means she might only have a few minutes to pull her hair back. These pure silk scrunchies make the whole process feel more luxe and less damaging to her hair. They will come in handy, too, if she experiences postpartum hair loss.

Women's Long Robe

A nice, soft robe will keep her cozy, and you can even have it embroidered to personalize it. Plus, when she wants to change out of pajamas but not into actual clothes, a robe is kind of the perfect thing to throw on and go about the day. It'll make feedings a breeze too because all she has to do is untie the robe.

Step Step Instant Photo Printer

Making memories and keepsakes has never been easier than with this portable Kodak printer. She can print out the images and make a scrapbook or mail the prints out to her in-laws, who may live in another state and are eagerly awaiting updates on their new grandchild.

Temperature Control Smart Mug

With this warming mug, her coffee or tea will never go cold again—no matter how distracted she gets. This is one of those gifts that will continue to be in use after her newborn is all grown up. After all, a smart mug doesn't have a time limit of use unlike burping cloths.

"Letters to My Baby" Book by Lea Redmond

This sentimental gift gives mom prompts to write letters to her little one. Although it will take some time before her child can read the notes, it's a sweet heirloom they'll both cherish one day. It would make for a good book to flip through before bedtime, too! After all, who doesn't want to hear sweet thoughts and praises from mom at the end of the day?

Warmies Slippers

She'll love staying cozy and comfortable with these heated slippers that'll warm up quickly in the microwave. They will especially come in handy for mothers who give birth in the winter, since rolling out of bed to do night feedings in the cold sounds brutal. This is also another gift she can continue to use well beyond just her new mom days.

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