Most people bring presents for the baby, and there’s no denying that shopping for a baby is easy and fun! However, babies get so many onesies, outfits, blankets, and toys that parents are often forced to donate many, even though they are unopened. Instead of going down the same road as everyone else, give a new mom a unique gift that she will cherish for months or even years. Before you decide on a gift, you should consider your budget and the mom’s preferences so that you don’t make the mistake of picking something you like the most but rather a gift that she will appreciate.
Unique Gift Ideas for New Moms
1. Postpartum Leggings
It’s natural for new moms to focus only on their babies to the exclusion of everything and everyone else, including themselves! The fact is that pregnancy and labor are physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausting, and most new moms are in a world of pain and discomfort that they try to ignore the best they can. Furthermore, it can take a while to get used to the belly pooch and other physical changes, which can take a toll on mom’s mental health. This is where postpartum leggings come in to save the day. These leggings are soft and gentle on the skin, offer support to the stomach and back muscles, and provide a sleek silhouette – you can’t ask for anything more! Go through some of the best postpartum leggings vetted by experts to help you weigh the pros and cons of the different styles and materials before choosing.
2. Nursing Pillow
Even when people give gifts meant specifically for mom, they are typically baskets that contain skincare lotions, nipple creams, and gel packs. While these are thoughtful gifts, the problem is that mom often ends up with multiple items of the same kind. Most new moms don’t anticipate that breastfeeding puts a lot of strain on the neck, shoulders, and arms. A nursing pillow takes the pressure off mom’s body while allowing her to cradle her little one comfortably.
3. Weighted Blanket
It is estimated that up to 80% of new moms experience “baby blues” after childbirth with mood swings, stress, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Unfortunately, the lack of sleep can aggravate these symptoms and increase the risk of postpartum depression. Studies show that a weighted blanket helps reduce stress and anxiety as well as improve sleep. A weighted or throw blanket is a unique gift to help new moms get much-needed sleep.
4. House Cleaning
It takes time for parents to adjust to their new roles and responsibilities and find a daily rhythm that works for all. The gift of a house cleaning service is thoughtful because it gives parents the one thing they need above all else – time! Having someone else come in and take care of all the household chores also provides mom time to rest and recover. Depending on your budget, you can opt for a one-month, three-month, or six-month subscription. Check out the reviews of various services to see what each one offers before choosing.
5. Delicious but Healthy Snacks
It’s normal for breastfeeding moms to feel hungry all the time. One of the reasons for the increase in appetite is that breastfeeding moms have different nutritional needs – they require approximately 400 more calories per day compared to their calorie intake before pregnancy. Depending on mom’s taste, you can gift her anything from peanut butter and oatmeal protein balls to banana muffins or whole-grain, low-sugar chocolate chip cookies.
6. Home-cooked freezer meals
If you’re looking for a thoughtful and practical gift, you can’t go wrong with home-cooked freezer meals. Lasagna and casseroles are ideal because they can be easily reheated and served. Another option is to go with one-handed snacks like breakfast burritos, which are great for busy mornings or late-night feedings. If you are unsure of mom’s tastes, you can opt for a gift card to a local meal delivery service so she can have fresh meals whenever she needs them.
7. Personalized Photo Album
In our increasingly digital world, a physical item, such as a personalized photo album, can become a treasured possession. If you want the album to become an heirloom, you can reach out to family members on both sides and ask each person to provide a photo with a short message to the child written on the back. If you want a personalized gift but don’t have the time or the resources to create a photo album, you can give a “baby’s first handprint or footprint ornament kit.” This simple but creative gift will become prized as the baby grows up and parents fondly reminisce about the baby’s first Christmas every year.