When a friend, relative, or even a family member is expecting a new baby, it’s a great opportunity to celebrate and show your congratulations. However, it can be challenging to decide what to give as a gift that will be useful for a new mother. Here are some ideas based on what actual mothers have said they need and want:
Starting from the early stages of pregnancy: When you first learn about someone’s pregnancy, or within 3-4 months before their due date, it’s a good time to prepare a gift. You might ask the mother to create a wish list to share with friends and family to avoid duplicate gifts and ensure the items are truly needed. If unsure, you can always ask directly what the new mother might want. This way, you can avoid buying redundant items.
If you’re tired of the usual baby clothes or can’t decide on a gift, here are 10 suggestions:
- Disposable diapers: Many mothers confirm that they can never have too many diapers. It’s not necessary to buy just newborn sizes; larger sizes are also useful. Diapers are consumable items, so no matter how many you have, they’ll be used up eventually.
- Mother’s skincare cream: If giving a gift during pregnancy, choose a cream that prevents stretch marks, suitable for that stage of pregnancy. There are many brands to choose from based on budget. After childbirth, opt for creams that help with skin rejuvenation and tightening, particularly for the abdomen. New mothers often focus on their baby and may not prioritize their own self-care.
- Pregnancy pillow: A large gift that many mothers appreciate is a pregnancy pillow. It helps support the belly while sleeping and provides comfort. It can also be used for nursing after delivery. There are various shapes like U-Shape, G-Shape, or C-Shape with different price ranges. It’s a good idea to check if the mother already has one.
- Digital thermometer: Many mothers overlook this essential item. After childbirth, it’s useful for checking if the baby has a fever. You can choose models that measure temperature in the ear or on the forehead. This practical gift is often appreciated and shows thoughtfulness.
- Baby monitor: A wireless baby monitor helps mothers keep track of their baby when they’re not in the same room. It’s particularly useful for mothers who return to work or need to be away from their baby for any reason. It allows monitoring through a mobile device and is easy to set up.
- Lactation boosting drinks: There are services that deliver items like banana flower drinks, which can help increase milk production. This can alleviate stress for mothers concerned about milk supply.
- Nursing cover or nursing clothes: If the mother hasn’t prepared these, a nursing cover or nursing-friendly clothes can be very useful. Many mothers find themselves needing these items when they go out and realize they haven’t prepared for breastfeeding in public.
- Baby nail clippers: This is another item that many new mothers may not have thought to buy. As babies grow, their nails can become sharp and may scratch themselves or their parents. A good set of baby nail clippers is a practical gift.
- Everyday essentials: Consider gifting items like wet wipes, receiving blankets, breast pads, bottle cleaning solutions, baby laundry detergent, baby powder, soap, and baby shampoo. These are all everyday necessities that will be used up eventually. Opt for products that are gentle on sensitive skin and free from strong fragrances.
Additional suggestions: Consider gifts based on the mother’s lifestyle, such as:
- Spa or relaxation treatments: A voucher for a spa treatment or relaxation massage.
- Postpartum fitness programs: Classes or courses to help get back into shape after childbirth.
- Baby carrier: Useful for carrying the baby hands-free.
- Postpartum support wear: Items like postpartum shapewear or maternity jeans.
- Relaxing music: A collection of soothing music for the mother to enjoy during pregnancy and after childbirth, which can also be soothing for the baby.
- Pregnancy guide books: Informative books on pregnancy and childbirth.
- Comfort items: Such as maternity shoes, a pregnancy support belt, prenatal vitamins, skincare products for sensitive skin, or even a monetary gift for extra support.
These thoughtful gifts will show your care and consideration for the new mother and her baby.
