When it comes to choosing the best gifts for new moms, there are a few things to keep in mind. One: Avoid the necessities that she’s likely already bought for herself or that were on her registry—we’re talking swaddles, breast pumps, bassinets. We can guarantee her baby shower covered those. Instead, focus on self-care gifts that’ll make the fourth trimester a little easier, clothing and loungewear that make her feel good, and nursery nice-to-haves that spark joy. After all, having a baby can be one of life’s greatest gifts, but the postpartum period can be a challenging, sleep-deprived time for first-time moms—precisely why sending a gift that shows you’re thinking of them goes a long way. Keep reading for the best gift ideas for new moms to give this Mother’s Day. (Or any day!)
Baby & Nursery Gear
If there’s one design-oriented baby carrier, it’s the Artipoppe Zeitgeist. Comfortable for both mom and baby, it comes in tons of fun patterns and fabrics, like a gold cotton leopard print and a yin-yang design on linen.
LoveShackFancy’s collaboration with Pottery Barn Kids is all about vintage-inspired floral prints—the perfect gift for cottagecore-obsessed new mothers. We’re eyeing this monogrammable fair isle print baby blanket patterned with bows and tulips.
This gender-neutral mobile featuring wool and felt sailboats, beach balls, and waves will have baby (and mom) dreaming of beach days ahead.
Crane Baby’s round cotton playmats come in chic quilted designs and have a cushioned polyester fill, making them perfect for tummy time. They’re machine-washable and easy to spot clean too, ideal for new baby messes.
The Hatch Rest+ 2nd Gen is the hybrid night light and sound machine new moms didn’t know they needed. It has a variety of calming sounds to choose from, including white noise, wind, and rain, as well as a soothing glow. It’s wifi controlled, so new parents can change the sound and light combinations without going into their little one’s room in the middle of the night.
Don’t let the minimalist design fool you, this three-in-one lounger, bouncer, and upright seat is a thoughtful gift that has a lot of utility. It can adjust into three separate positions and has a two-speed vibration unit to calm even the fussiest babies. Plus, it’s lightweight and comes with a travel bag, making it great for on the go in baby’s first year.
This keepsake baby book will help them keep track of all the important milestones, from the baby’s first gurgle to their first steps. It’s got a linen cover, neutral botanicals, and thoughtful prompts parents will be able to look back for years to come.
Postpartum Clothing & Accessories
The best diaper bag is arguably the one that doesn’t look like it. This machine-washable quilted backpack from 7AM Enfant has tons of storage—we’re talking seven interior pockets, three exterior, and a laptop sleeve. It comes with a removable changing pad and straps that easily attach to a stroller, making it a great new mom gift.
If you’re looking for a great gift for moms-to-be, you can’t go wrong with a plush new bathrobe for their hospital bag. Brooklinen’s mid-length cotton terry robes come in bright checkerboard patterns and have a cozy feel.
No one appreciates fancy pj’s and loungewear like a new mama in her early days postpartum. This ’60s-inspired terry shorts set will make her feel luxurious, even if she hasn’t left the house all day. Plus, the button-down top means easy access for breastfeeding.
Bodily’s super-soft nursing bra is designed to have minimal support for the first days of breastfeeding, when anything that feels too restrictive can cause complications. It’s made of a breathable stretchy fabric and has nursing clips and an extended back closure for added comfort.
Slip-ons are the best gifts for new moms since leaning down to tie or buckle shoes can get complicated if they’re wearing their baby or still recovering from a C-section. The postpartum wardrobe might be all about convenience, but it shouldn’t have to sacrifice on style, which is why we love these transparent Tory Burch jelly slides.
Speaking of convenient but chic, this belt bag from luggage brand Baboon to the Moon comes in tons of bright colors and is easy for new moms to carry their personal items hands-free.
Self-Care
Next up in our gift guide is this lavender candle, designed to bring calming vibes wherever it goes. The flowery base has citrusy hints and a kick of mint, resulting in a scent that’ll make anyone feel like they’re at a spa.
A full night’s sleep might not be on the agenda for new moms, but you can help make the hours they do get high-quality with this best-selling silk eye mask.
An Aesop gift set is always a good idea, especially for new moms looking to squeeze any self-care rituals into their day. This set comes with a cleanser and moisturizing lotion that’ll leave skin feeling soft and hydrated.
This pampering skin care set made for new moms comes with body lotion, body wash, a nourishing belly butter that helps reduce stretch marks, and a brush to exfoliate skin.
Everything Else
All moms appreciate fresh flowers, no matter if it’s to celebrate coming home with a newborn or as a Mother’s Day gift. Featuring fragrant lilies in shades of pink, this arrangement from UrbanStems will brighten up a space filled with bottles, diapers, and pacifiers.
If the new mom in your life is breastfeeding, hydration is top of mind. The 40-ounce tumbler from Hydro Flask has a straw lid that makes drinking water not feel like a chore, and the large capacity means less trips to the kitchen for refills.
Let’s just say, cooking dinner isn’t a priority for new parents. Treat them to a meal by way of a DoorDash gift card that’ll free them to get delivery beyond their usual neighborhood spots.
