After baby arrives, most people in the west are too busy thinking about the new bundle of joy to worry about how the mother is doing. In some countries, it’s traditional to help new mothers and let them have a proper pampered babymoon, but that’s not so common here. So do something different – spoil a new mother with a gift basket. Here are some great ideas to add to the basket.
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Herbal Tea
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New mothers often don’t get a chance to sit down and relax. A herbal tea can be used to increase breastmilk supply or aid with postpartum bleeding, not to mention some relaxation!
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Easy, Healthy Snacks
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When she’s in a rush, mom might not have a chance to eat properly. Nutritious and healthy snack bars, biscuits and fruit are a great addition to any gift basket!
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Belly Binding Kit
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The ancient art of belly binding is becoming much more popular today. Belly binding helps the postpartum belly regain its strength and recuperate.
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Sleeping Like a Baby
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This great book by Pinky McKay (IBCLC) will give a new mama the information she needs to help her baby sleep… like a baby! Great information for a stressed and tired mama.
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Toys for Older Children
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Is this an addition to an already thriving family? Bring along some fun small activities and toys for older children so mama can spend some time with her new baby. Play dough or sticker books are always a great place to start!
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Bottom Spray
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After birth, things can be a bit sore downstairs. Bottom spray is a must for any mama wanting to heal as fast as possible and avoid too much pain.
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Nursing Pads
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For mamas who are breastfeeding (or are bottle feeding but still leak), nursing pads are a must. Cloth or disposables are both great.
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Oatmeal
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Is mama breastfeeding? Oatmeal is a healthy addition to any diet, not to mention it helps increase and maintain breastmilk supply.
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Housework
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Mama needs time to bond with her new baby. Offer to come do some washing or dishes and even let her have a nap in the meantime!
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Postpartum Doula
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A postpartum doula is worth every cent and will be greatly appreciated. They are trained in a range of skills including breastfeeding support, common newborn problems and postpartum support.
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A Baby Wrap
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A wrap or sling is lets baby and mama stay close while mama can still do housework and keep her hands free. It also helps calm babies who cry a lot.
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Dark Chocolate
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Who doesn’t love chocolate? Dark chocolate is a little bit naughty while having plenty of health benefits.
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Light Reading Material or Movies
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Stuck inside on a couch can get a bit boring, so some magazines or a good movie can add some interest to the day.
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Postpartum Clothing
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A mom’s body doesn’t bounce back straight away, so some flattering postpartumclothes to make mama look and feel good about herself are a great addition to her wardrobe.
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New Pyjamas
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It’s hard to get dressed when you don’t feel like leaving the house. A new pair of PJs will keep mom comfy as she spends quality time with her new baby.
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Mother Brag Book
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A baby journal or baby brag book gives mom something else to do and lets her store all her proud moments for posterity.
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Great Mother Checklist
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Write up a list of all the things mom should be accomplishing each day. Some good ones to start:
– Drink some water.
– Hugs with baby.
– Have a good balanced meal.
– Have a nice hot, relaxing shower.
– Get plenty of rest.
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Water Bottle
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New moms, especially those who are breastfeeding, can dehydrate easily as they try and keep up with their new addition. A quality water bottle which won’t leak is a great gift.
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Nipple Shield
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The first few weeks of breastfeeding can be uncomfortable or painful. A nipple shield can help mom get through. However it’s important to let mom know that nipple shields should not be used long term and usually disguise instead of fix any issues. If mom is in pain or baby is having issues, it’s best to see an IBCLC to check for tongue tie, bad latch or other issues. -
Witch Hazel
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This is a great addition to postpartum recovery. Premade witch hazel pads help with recovery and pain relief.
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Relaxing Bath Herbs
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Sitz or herb baths can help mama heal, recover and relax after birth.
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Mama Smiles Spray
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It’s completely normal for mama to feel overwhelmed, hormonal and emotional after birth. An aromatherapy spray can help with improving mood and avoiding new mama blues.
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Heat Pack
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A heat pack can help relieve postpartum pains and provide some relief for tired muscles.
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Peri Bottle
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These are a great addition to the toilet and bathroom! Fill with salt water and squirt for some relief downstairs.
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Nipple Butter
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Nipples can take some time to adjust to breastfeeding, so a good nipple cream is a must!

Susannah is a certified Birth Doula through Childbirth International and the founder of Trimester Talk. With a background in journalism and digital strategy, she combines evidence-based research with real-world knowledge to create accessible content about pregnancy and parenting. She’s a mother of two and stepmother of two more, all of them now teenagers.
