Welcoming a new baby into your friend group is always exciting. Being an "honorary" aunt or uncle is a privilege. But gift-giving for the new mom may seem a little more difficult, especially if you don't have kids of your own or know what your friend might need the most. What's the difference between a Snoogle and a Boppy? Everything seems so similarly named, and you may feel slightly out of the loop giving a big gift that's not as useful as it seems.
While your friend didn't have a baby to be showered with presents (at least, hopefully not), it's still a good feeling to buy something you know will help her new living situation. Babies are a joy, but they're also very stressful that first year. Here are 10 useful and helpful suggestions that any new mom would be happy to receive. (And for the record, your love and support during this transition is really the best gift of all!)
1. Queen-Size Weighted Blanket
For the first few weeks, getting sleep is crucial. If the mom in your life chooses to breastfeed, she'll be awake a couple times a night for feeding and pumping. Let her live her best life back in bed with this weighted blanket. This will help keep her secure and ease some of that new mom anxiety. Just make sure she's not bedsharing with the baby, since this blanket isn't for babies or toddlers.
2. HoMedics Shower Bliss Foot Spa
$57.99
from
Bed Bath & Beyond
With a newborn, it's hard to run out to the spa — especially since not everyone is vaccinated just yet. This foot bath will offer the next best thing. Mom can pamper herself while she pumps, or just put it on and give her feet a break after a long day. With shower massage jets and added heat, you may be tempted to buy one for yourself, as well!
3. 'My Life Story — So Far' Journal
$30
from
Uncommon Goods
This is a big transition for your friend. With the title of "mom," sometimes she might feel like she's losing her identity as to who she was — and still is. This journal may help her de-stress and remind her that she's still the same incredible individual she was before the baby took up a lot of household attention. Plus, it'll be a great keepsake down the road.
4. Fisher-Price On-the-Go Baby Dome
This is a product that mom might not have thought to register for. When visiting others, sometimes it's hard to find a place to put your baby. Yes, "in someone's arms" works, but if it's time for a nap? This dome will work much better. Perfect to travel with and from a trustworthy name, this dome is also good for when you're hanging outside.
5. Push-Pop Style Bath Bombs
$22
from
Uncommon Goods
Push-pops were always a nice treat to get as a kid at the convenience store. Why not bring that same joy to the tub? These bath bombs are sure to delight any new mom, and they'll help remind her to take a break. Her body is healing, and it may take some time. Pampering will help ease her spirits. These bath bombs are all themed, and they come in a fun set of two.
6. Magicteam Sound Machine
White noise may be good for babies, but it's also pretty relaxing for an adult. Think about the kind of music you'd hear in a spa. That's the kind of music you should try to fall asleep to every night. Hearing relaxing noises will be a great way for the mom in your life to take some time to unwind. This model comes with 30 possible sounds to loop for a good night's sleep.
7. Ornoou Hot Water Bottle With Cover
Recovery from a pregnancy can be painful. That's why it'd be a cute idea to get your favorite new mom this helpful hot water bottle with a comforting cover. Even better, it can also turn into a cold pack if that's the relief mom needs. This is just a great and practical item that everyone should have in their home.
8. Bbluv 4-in-1 Portable Pacifier and Nipple UV Sterilizer
Pacifiers are often a great way for babies to regain calmness. There's only one problem — they often get lost around the house. This gadget not only keeps pacifiers protected, but it makes sure they're sterilized so that your baby won't be exposed to additional germs. It can also clean bottle tops in less than three minutes, saving mom a little time.
9. Mother's Heart Necklace
From
$50
to $70
from
Uncommon Goods
Jewelry is a wonderful gift that helps acknowledge big milestones. This simple yet very sweet necklace will make her feel special and supported. It's a great way to talk up her new role, and she'll be even more confident in her mothering abilities while wearing it. And that makes it quite the useful gift.
10. Women's Cozy Memory Foam Closed Back Slippers
If you happen to get a peek at mom's shoe size (which might have changed while she was pregnant), then you need to get her a comfy pair of slippers. Mom will be waking up a lot during the night, and it's best not to be barefoot. If you know a mom who's expecting during the wintertime, warmth is even more of a priority. These won't slip off her feet, and they'll offer a ton of protection and comfort as she's doing her 3 a.m. feed.
Psst: If you choose to purchase an item on this list, LittleThings may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
