Looking for a gift for a new mum? The best gifts are the ones that make her feel special, make life a little easier or are genuinely useful. From thoughtful treats and keepsakes to practical help and homemade meals, we've put together 16 of our favourite new mum gift ideas - including a few that won't cost you a penny.
1. Food - homemade meals
Make her life a little easier by bringing a home-cooked meal that can be easily reheated later. If you're batch cooking for yourself, make an extra portion or two while you're at it. Or cook one of her favourite meals specifically for her - it's the thought that counts.
2. Help - give her a break
Offer to hold the crying baby while she sleeps, eats, showers or whatever she likes. Or offer to take the baby out in the pram for 30 minutes while she stays home alone.
3. Food - sweets & treats
Chocolate, cake, biscuits and sweets: snacks that can be eaten with one hand are especially appreciated.
4. Housework
Offer to wash up while you visit - and don’t stop there!
5. Gift hamper
Combine several ideas from this list to make a hamper with practical items, luxurious treats and keepsakes. This gift box is from the Bumbles & Boo range and has been designed especially for new mums.
6. Sentiment Jewellery
Specifically for this life stage, this new mum bracelet from Joma Jewellery is a thoughtful gift. It's lightweight, easy to wear and can be swapped from wrist to wrist to help her remember which side to feed on next.
7. A photo frame
There will be no shortage of new pictures and a special new mum frame is a lovely way to display them.
8. Skincare
From 'me time' luxury bath and shower products to hand cream to help soothe chapped hands from all the extra handwashing after nappy changing, skincare can be both luxury and practical.
9. Food vouchers
Yes, food makes the list 3 times! This time, vouchers for food delivery or coffee and cake with a friend at a local café (one with enough space to get a pushchair between the chairs).
10. Baby clothes flower bouquet
All the visual appeal of real flowers, but longer lasting and these flowers don't need any maintenance. Plus the baby can wear the 'flowers' when the display is taken down.
11. Nappy cake
Less calories than real cake and packed with useful ingredients - nappy cakes can be displayed until required.
12. Baby journal or milestone cards
Make it easy for her to record those special memories with a cute baby journal, or choose pre-printed milestone cards for an easy way to keep track of ages and stages. Simply pop down a card next to the baby at the appropriate moment and snap a photo.
13. Mug or Bottle
A travel mug with a secure lid for hot coffee when she's out and about with the pushchair is a very practical gift. A water bottle to keep next to her during long feeds is useful, or an 'amazing mummy' mug will make her feel special when she finally gets to enjoy a cuppa.
14. Non-alcoholic wine
A fun addition to a hamper or a gift on its own - something celebratory to enjoy when she's not drinking alcohol.
15. Night light
A cute portable one for all those night feeds and nappy changes, or plug-in nightlights for the top and bottom of the stairs, which can be useful for years to come.
16. Cosy nightwear
Pyjamas, a dressing gown or slippers can be a lovely gift, but only if you are close enough to know her taste and size!
And finally
When deciding what to get, think about what you can do for her, what she'll actually use, how you can spoil her and what she will treasure. Your gift is sure to be thoughtful whatever you decide to give. Take a look at our new mum gifts collection for more ideas.
