It’s come to my attention that you or someone you know is with child. I know this because you or your friend has emailed, texted, twittered, or facebooked me and asked me a form of the following question: What should I get? If you do not fall under this category, you may skip this chapter and go back to your lunchtime margarita. Everyone else, thanks for asking. For some reason you think I know things which helps me believe I know things. This week alone I’ve gotten over a dozen inquiries, which seems like a strange coincidence–but I’ll roll with it. I like making lists.
For a while I had been deferring to this post, a top ten list I made one month after Waylon was born of all my favorite new mom and new baby products. It’s a good list, although I’d definitely replace the Moby Wrap with an Ergo Carrier (save your back and thank me later). This list contains similar items with a few new additions from the perspective of a more seasoned parent. You learn a lot in the first year. Like don’t buy a wipes warmer. You do not need a wipes warmer.
As an aside, often when bloggers make gift guides they make them very beautiful and link to 65 dollar wooden rattles. I think this is wonderful (I like beautiful things), but realistically your new mom friend does not need a 65 dollar wooden rattle. In fact, babies don’t need much of anything, which is why most of these gifts go to mama.
Enjoy.
|1|
Post birth outfit
One of my most treasured baby gifts was a nursing gown and robe to wear after Waylon was born. Not only was it comfortable and roomy, it helped me feel better about myself while I was feeling like a washed up jellyfish in front of visitors.
|2|
Burp Cloths
See it on Amazon
You can never have too many burp cloths, especially in the first few months when they all disappear into the laundry basket and you wonder when you’ll ever smell normal again (you will). Pretty ones are best. It’s the small things.
|3|
Postpartum Massage
See it on Amazon
There is no better way to say, “Congratulations for pushing a 9 pound child out of your vagina” than a massage gift card! I’m absolutely certain of this.
|4|
White Onesies
See it on Amazon
Like burp clothes, one can never have enough white onesies. This is especially true for mamas with baby boys who are tired of clothing covered in trucks and puppies (me).
|5|
Diapers
I know it seems boring because fact: it is boring. But having diapers delivered is a Godsend. Order a whole box off Amazon (cheaper) and you will be a hero.
|6|
Netflix Or HuluPlus Giftcard
Feeding a baby takes time. Boost morale with some feeding entertainment, like the ability to watch favorite shows on Hulu or Netflix. Or, drop off a few of your favorite chick flicks. The act (and the movies) will make her cry.
|7|
Nursing tank tops
I’ve worn a nursing tank top almost every day for a year and a half. Lucky Austin! They are so comfortable and convenient that I’ve become a walking commercial. Target has a great selection for around 20 dollars a top. Worth it.
|8|
Service
One of the best gifts for a new mom is acts of service; gentle, no nonsense, quiet service. But there are rules. For example, don’t give a printed out coupon that says ”This coupon equals one dish washing experience!” or make statements such as, “Let me know when you’d like a load of laundry done!” Instead just do the dishes. Do the laundry. Make sure it’s a good time, yes. But don’t make a new mom ask for help, just help. Also don’t bring your kids along “to help.” Just help. Just you. Be quiet. Bring snacks.
|9|
Food
Dropping off a meal for a new family is a nice thing to do. Dropping off a bag of groceries is even nicer. Suggested drop off items: Bread, cheese, cookies, nuts, homemade trailmix, white cheese popcorn, chips, salsa, fresh produce, cranberry juice, pads, soap, toothbrushes. This is, hands down, one of the best new mom gifts.
|10|
Ergo Baby Carrier
See it on Amazon
You want to give the baby a gift? I understand. This is the best baby carrier. The baby will love it. Mom will love it. Don’t bother with anything else. The Moby is great, but it’s complicated and not worth the money.
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Please note that no one is paying me to write this post. Although if you ever click on a link from my site to Amazon and buy the product — I will receive roughly three pennies. Thank you in advance! It should also be noted that the image above is not my own. I never looked that good pregnant.
