Gift Ideas for the Newly Postpartum Mama

It’s pretty common for friends and family

to celebrate a new baby by throwing the expecting mother a baby shower.  The focus is often around helping the mother-to-be start her collection of baby care items.  This is a wonderful way to support the family with love and practical supplies that they will need in the months to come.  

What’s less common is helping the new mother prepare for her own needs postpartum.  Everyone loves shopping for cute baby things, but mamas have unique needs as well and will definitely notice and appreciate when they are acknowledged by close friends and family. 

I once heard it said that when a friend or family member has a new baby “take care of the parents so they can take care of the baby”. We are better able to give what we have personally received.  In terms of caring for babies, parents/caregivers are better able to give love, patience, time, respect, gentleness, comfort, etc. when they have been given it themselves.  As easy as it is to offer advice, no matter how well intentioned, unless the mother asks for it, what she most needs is to be cared for herself. 

Sometimes it can be hard to know what to gift a new mama.  Below are some ideas of items you could put in a postpartum gift basket for the new mom in your life. 

Childbirth Recovery & Hygiene Products

Comfort Items & Relaxation Products

• Socks or slippers

• Comfy postpartum leggings

• A soft blanket to keep her warm

• Hot meal or food for the freezer

• Easy, healthy snacks

• Chapstick

• Unscented or mild body lotion

• Bath salts

• Massage certificate 

• Favorite skincare products 

• Tea

• Favorite magazine 

Nursing Supports

• Nursing clothes or pajamas

• Soft, lightweight robe

• Nursing pads

• Nipple cream

• Gift certificate to purchase nursing clothes and bras

• Large reusable water bottle with a straw

Motherhood Encouragement & Sentimental Keepsakes 

• Devotional for mothers

• Book or poems about motherhood

• A special mug

• Mom’s One Line a Day 5 Year Memory Journal

• A journal to record her birth story

• Mom jewelry (ex: that says “mom” or has the baby’s birthstone)

• Special photo frame

Whether it’s a gift, practical help or verbal encouragement the postpartum mom is sure to never forget your thoughtfulness during this vulnerable season.

Looking for other ways to support a new mama in your life? Check out Supporting the Breastfeeding Mother: A Letter to the Nursing Mama’s Village.