In this article I’m going to share with you my favorite new mom care package ideas to make her feel appreciated. If you’re looking for a gift that will be REALLY useful for a new mama and will make her life easier, you’re in the right place!
Article by Macy Tollefson – doula, breastfeeding specialist & prenatal yoga teacher
Are you looking to put together a new mom care package, but aren’t sure what to include in it?
There are so many great gift ideas you can include in a care package, that will help a new mom take on the challenges that come with postpartum.
Putting a gift basket together for a new mom is a great way to meet some of her needs, so she can continue taking care not only of her new baby, but also HERSELF.
Because remember, the moment a new baby arrives, a new mother is born as well, and we need to be taking care of her too!
This article is not a substitute for medical advice. It may contain affiliate links.
What Should I Put In My New Mama Care Package?
From practical, must-have recovery products, to self-care or pampering gifts… Here are a few options you can include in your new mom gift basket (or a new mom care package that you’re preparing for yourself!).
1. Postpartum Care Package For Perineal Recovery
Perineal recovery and healing products are essential for new moms who have had a vaginal birth. Products that soothe the sore areas after labor and delivery are the best gift to include in your new mom care package, especially if they have experienced tearing or needed stitches.
I love this Postpartum Recovery Kit, which includes a perineal balm, spray, and herbal sitz bath. The balm and spray give cooling pain relief, while the sitz bath helps soothe and heal. They are made of all natural ingredients, with no artificial preservatives or fragrances.
Lots of moms said this kit helped them heal faster and have an easier second postpartum period, as compared to their first birth experience.
By the way, the spray is an absolute best-seller on Amazon with over 11 thousand positive reviews! It’s the most popular postpartum perineal spray and according to mamas it’s a game-changer for postpartum recovery.
Another great set is the Frida Postpartum Recovery Essentials Kit. This one contains 5 different products that will help set your postpartum period off on the right foot, during those first few visits to the bathroom.
It includes disposable postpartum underwear, instant ice maxi pads, “healing” perineal foam, and cooling pad liners. Many second time mamas said they wish they had this kit for their first birth.
2. Nipple Cream
A good nipple cream is an essential product for new mom care, regardless of how she chooses to feed.
One of the best nipple balms that you can gift to any new mama is this Earth Mama Organics Nipple Butter. With its mix of olive oil, cocoa, shea and mango butter, mamas rave about this “amazing” and “soothing” nipple butter, saying it truly helps treat chapped, cracked and sore nipples that came from feeding and pumping.
Many mothers also loved the fact that it can be used on your lips, cuticles and dry skin as well. This nipple cream is safe to use with babies, meaning you don’t need to worry about it getting in the their mouth, as it is Non-GMO Project Verified.1 They even have a vegan nipple butter option!
3. Nursing Bra
An efficient nursing bra is a great practical gift for any new mom who is breastfeeding or pumping, and trust me – you can never have too many.
Personally I recommend this Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing & Pumping Bra – is a super supportive bra which is great for heavy-chested moms! (and it also comes in 18 sizes for the perfect fit). With easy to use clip-down cups it’s truly nursing-friendly.
There’s no need for an additional pumping bra with this one, as it can hold your flange while you pump, and mom can remain hands free. You can get it in 5 gorgeous colors.
If you’re unsure of the mom’s bra size or preferences, you can always get her a gift card, so she can pick the one that would work best for her.
4. Milk Collector
A breast milk collector is an amazing way to catch any leaking milk during a feed or pumping session, to save for a future feed. They also help take the edge off when your breasts feel engorged or too full, which any mom can benefit from.
As a breastfeeding specialist, I recommend Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump. It a very affordable and popular milk collector. You can simply suction it to your breast while you’re feeding on the other one, and leave it there to collect any letdown milk. It’s very easy to use and effective at catching your precious breastmilk.
If you have a bit more flexible budget, you may want to consider Elvie Curve. It’s a small manual breast pump that is contoured and designed to actually sit in your bra – which means no spills.
It’s discreet, fits under your shirt, without making your breast look unnaturally large, and it is a game-changer for on-the-go pumping or milk collection.
Check out my comparison of these two milk catchers: Elvie Curve vs Haakaa Pump to see how I think the two compare.
5. Nursing Pads
Including nursing pads in your new mom survival kit can be a big help. Any mom can benefit from additional nursing pads (regardless of if they breastfeed or not) while their body adjusts to their milk coming in, and subsequent feeding journey.
These definitely make life easier, as she can prevent leaking through clothes while she sleeps, or out in public.
Lots of moms in Facebook groups recommend these Organic Bamboo Nursing Pads which are washable, reusable and extra soft. Bamboo is also more durable and absorbent than cotton, and many moms love this option for when they are on the go.
If you’re a first time mama and you’ve never used breast pads before, check out my article where I explain how to use them to prevent leakage.
6. Breastfeeding Pillow
A good pillow is essential to support lactation in the first few months. Proper physical technique can help a mom relax during a feed, and avoid muscle strain.
When a new mom is relaxed and comfortable during a feed, her milk flow is likely to be improved, which can help her baby with weight gain and better sleep.2
Many mothers love this Feeding and Milestones Pillow from Boppy, as it provides ergonomic support during feedings, both nursing and bottle feeding. And can be used as your baby gets older, to help them strengthen neck muscles, needed for crawling and sitting up.
Reviewers stand by the support and comfort this pillow offers… plus you’re sure to find mom’s favorite in the 16 different colors and patterns to choose from.
7. Pretty & Nursing-Friendly Nightgown
Comfortable and practical pajamas are essential for a new mom to sleep and live in, which is why they would make a great addition to any mom care package!
A pretty maternity gown like this one, will make her feel a little more like herself, while not getting in the way of feeding or pumping. While functionality is important in a maternity gown, a new mama wants to feel cute and put-together as well.
That’s why I love this nightgown – it’s breastfeeding friendly thanks to convenient clips and at the same time it looks so cute with the romantic lacy details. It has built-in cups for light support for your breast – exactly what they need during the night.
Check out my article Best Nursing Pajamas & Nightgowns to see other comfy nightwear options for breastfeeding moms.
8. Pregnancy Stretch Marks Treatment
New moms have experiences numerous body changes over the last nine months of pregnancy, and postpartum is no different. After giving birth, her uterus and belly begin to shrink back down, which is why it is so important to keep her skin moisturized.
That’s why I recommend getting a good moisturizer, like the Belly Oil & Belly Butter bundle, which will help nurture her skin, as it continues to shrink. It may even help treat any stretch marks she accumulated during pregnancy.
The belly oil can be used not only on her belly, but also breasts, hips, and anywhere that needs a little extra TLC. Moms rave about the delicate scent of these Earth Mama Belly Oils and Butters, as well as the soft, non-sticky texture of these natural products.
If you’d like to see more option for stretch mark prevention and treatment, here is my article about best belly oils for pregnancy stretch marks.
9. Cozy Robe
In those early postpartum days, most new parents live in comfy, cozy clothes. A new robe is a perfect and practical thing she can throw on to do the middle-of-the-night diaper changes, or just lounge around the house.
One of the great options for postpartum, is this super soft Emmaline Robe, which comes in 3 colors and features three-quarter length sleeves that won’t get in the way during bath time or diaper changes.
Plus, in case a family or friends come by to greet the new baby, this robe will give you needed discretion and prevent any flashing (especially when you need to nurse).
10. Backpack Diaper Bag
A diaper bag is a practical gift for new parents, that allows them to stay hands-free on the go.
Backpack-style diaper bags are my favorite ones, because they help to keep the weight evenly distributed on the parent’s shoulders, to help lessen shoulder and neck pain.
Also, opt for something really capacious, that will fit all mom’s necessities, like this diaper bag from Itzy Ritzy. It has 19 pockets for all of the essentials (including insulated bottle pockets), comfy shoulder straps and a rubber bottom, for added durability.
And the best part is that it can be hooked up to a stroller handlebar with two secure straps.
It will keep moms organized from the time they bring the baby home from the hospital and all throughout their baby’s life.
11. Ready-To-Go New Mom Gift Boxes
If you don’t have the time to put together your own gift basket, many companies have their own curated new mom care package, that make very thoughtful gifts.
Solly Baby has a beautiful Mama+Baby Bundle, that is perfect for new moms. It includes a robe for mom, literally THE SOFTEST baby wrap ever, swaddle to keep a sleeping baby warm and secure, and a bath soak.
Another great option is the Motherlode Beauty Tote from The Spoiled Mama. This pregnancy gift basket comes with a beautiful reusable tote bag, along with all of their best selling products for new moms to pamper themselves and take care of their changing bodies (body butter, stretch mark oil, cream for tired legs and more).
12. Water Bottle
Hydration is essential for new parents, but especially moms who are breastfeeding or pumping, as breastmilk is primarily made of water! Having a cute, functional water bottle can make all the difference in encouraging new mom to stay hydrated.
These Iron Flask bottles are the most popular ones. They are not cheap, but they are super durable and will serve new mama for a long time! These insulated stainless steel water bottles keep drinks cold (or hot) for up to 24 hours, and come in a variety of colors.
13. Stool Softener
Ok, this one may seem like a weird gift, but trust me – every new mom needs this in her postpartum care package. One part of postpartum that most people don’t talk about is the dreaded first poop after labor. Stool softener can be your best friend in those early postpartum days, and many people may not think to buy it for themselves.
14. Grocery Delivery & Meal Kits
Help parents save time and energy, by gifting them with grocery delivery services, or pre-made meal kits! If you don’t live near them (or don’t enjoy preparing meals) to deliver food personally, this is a great option.
This way you can save new mom some time to get enough sleep.
Alternatively, you could buy them a variety of their favorite healthy snacks to keep around the house. Be sure to include easy, handheld options (such as granola bars or lactation bites) that can easily be eaten during those late night feedings. Here are some of the best foods to bring to new mama.
15. Spa Gift Card
When mom is ready to leave her baby, an afternoon at the spa will give her an opportunity to relax or re-energize. Many new moms feel guilty indulging in self-care, but a gift card to a spa is a great gift to include in your care package, to motivate her to take some time for herself.
New mom deserve some time just for herself and there’s nothing to feel guilty about!
16. Housecleaning Gift Card
Did you know that having a clean house can actually help reduce anxiety?3 With all of the changes and added responsibilities new parents face in the postpartum period, taking “cleaning the house” off of their to-do list could help them significantly. New parents need all the help they can get, and when it comes to practical gifts, this is a big winner.
One of the mamas in my Facebook group said: “I don’t need an invitation to a cup of coffee after I gave birth. I want someone to help me clean my house, while I’m taking a nap!”.
17. Long Cell Phone Charger Cord
For those parents that like to scroll while their baby feeds, or keep up with their friends and family, extra long cell phone chargers make for perfect gifts. It will allow them to sit comfortably, wherever they want (as opposed to as-close-to-the-outlet-as-possible) and don’t have to worry about their phone dying mid-feed.
18. New Baby Gift Set
If you want to get a gift that is specific for the baby, there are great gift sets available. This Baby Gift Set from Zoe Organics includes baby bath wash, baby oil and diaper balm, all in a cute carrying case. These products are all made from natural ingredients, safe for little ones delicate skin.
Other great ideas are: new pajamas for the baby, calming gifts that enhance sleep, or other comforting gifts for babies.
19. Personalized New Baby Milestone Blanket
Another great idea for a baby gift, is a custom baby milestone blanket, for parents to document their newborn baby’s growth.
Although this one is not a must-have to include in care packages, it’s still one of the best ideas to make nice mementos.
Check out my favorite milestone blankets from Little Days Shop – they have a variety of adorable designs and layouts to choose from.
What Do You Get A New Mother After Birth?
Just as no two babies are the same, no two moms are either. After birth, a mother’s needs will vary from physical to emotional (and everything in between) which means there are so many different gift ideas that will give her the care she deserves.
Very often when people visit a new mom to meet her newborn baby, they bring gift only for the baby! How about the mother? There are so many things new moms really need for themselves right after having a baby.
Focus on gifts that are going to make her new life easier, make her feel empowered and more like herself. You could choose gifts that help with her physical recovery, make her feel special, or focus on baby essentials. It doesn’t have to be extravagant either. Bath salts or a lip balm are perfect new mom care package ideas.
You could always gift your time and show up for her practically, to offer a helping hand. Assist with the laundry or meals, let her vent and listen to her, or hold the baby (if she wants) so she can take a shower or have a moment to herself.
Ask the mom what she wants or needs and do your best to include those things in your new mom care package. While there is no one right way to put a gift together, the main goal is to help ease her stress. The best gifts are the ones that make her life easier in some way, and make her feel appreciated.
Article By Macy Tollefson
Macy Tollefson is a full spectrum doula, breastfeeding specialist and prenatal yoga teacher. She is passionate about guiding the modern mama on her journey through the beautiful (and wild) transformation of pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Macy envisions a world where every mother has access to the resources she needs, and follows her intuition to make the best decisions about what is right for her and her baby.
The purpose of this article is informative and entertaining. It’s not a substitute for medical consultation or medical care. Remember: safety first! The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.
Source of pictures:
Pictures of Earth Mama Organics products belong to Earth Mama Organics brand.
Pictures of Zoe Organics products belong to Zoe Organics brand.
Pictures of Kindred Bravely products belong to Kindred Bravely brand.
Pictures of The Spoiled Mama products belong to The Spoiled Mama brand.
Pictures of Boss Plus Diaper Bag belong to Itzy Ritzy brand.
Pictures of Milestone Blanket belong to Little Days brand.
Pictures of Mama+Baby Bundle belong to Solly Baby brand.
Pictures of Boppy Pillow products belong to Boppy brand.
Pictures of Frida Postpartum Kit belong to Frida brand.
Hello Moms! I am Zooey. I am a wife and a mother of three amazing kids: almost 5-year-old Haley and 2-year-old twins Jesse and Matthew. I am a jogger, cooker and blogger.If you have a question or a comment, do not hesitate to write to me! 🙂