What to get new mum?

[LaceyJade234]

My friend has just given birth (woohoo) but earlier than expected so less time to think of presents!

She already has a toddler of the same sex so has lots of clothes, muslins etc. I also don’t want to give flowers as I find it strange as you’re already trying to look after a baby - you can’t look after plants too! I would like to give something “out of the box” / “left of field” and something for her rather than the baby as she’s had a tough time.

What did you really need as gifts after giving birth?

Any suggestions?

My MIL got me a case of my favourite soft drink. I could have kissed her. Hydration, nice treat and ease all at once.

Sam Pellegrino for reference!

Some nice nibbles for indulging during feeding...

The best present we were given was someone coming round and cooking us a nice meal and taking the baby off for a bit so we could eat it together at the same time. I honestly think time is the best gift

I always buy people a Just Eat voucher which is always well received. (More appreciated than the baby outfits which I also buy because they're adorable and I enjoy buying them rather than anyone needing them!)

Could you order her something like a cheese, biscuit and chutney box. I got one for Christmas and it was amazing. Just what you need when you are stuck on the sofa with a baby.

All great ideas, definitely food, drinks or snacks in some form or another!

For me after my first it was lush products- peppermint foot cream, sleepy lavender moisturiser, hand cream and some really nice bath bombs!
Second time around my best gift was a takeaway voucher and offer to help whenever with holding baby / entertaining toddler!

Food and drinks that she likes, comfort things too. Maybe cook for her and drop it off (but don't stay long) or give her takeaway vouchers. I know you said think outside the box, but this is just what I wanted as a new mum! I also didn't have an eye mask for napping 'when your baby naps' which you're told to try and do- and found it too bright to sleep until a friend got me a little pamper set that included an eye mask. Little things make all the difference.

Aw you lot are fab thanks so much. I was considering a food hamper so I’m glad that came up a lot. It’s convinced me now. I’ll do a mix of food hamper and self-care items for the new mum.

thanks all!

Sounds great, just remember to check any self care items are safe to use if your friend is breastfeeding. Some essential oils aren't recommended you see!

COOK vouchers

Honestly agree, give them some sort of time. I’m not really a pamper type of gal, maybe your friend is, but even so there may not be chance to indulge in whatever you give her. My relative gave us Cook vouchers, Just Eat or going round to cook as PPs have suggested would have been great too. Time is the most precious commodity imo!

I’d go for takeaway vouchers over Cook. I had a very full freezer and nowhere to store anything, also the vegetable selection isn’t great, so when I finally got around to using them a year later I had to supplement with other items - not what you want with a newborn! My favourite gifts were champagne, a delivery of fresh bread, deli meats and cheeses, and some brownies. The latter were great for unexpected guests and also a nice sugary snack on the night and cluster feeds.

Ah yes you definitely have to communicate pre-Cook voucher buying. I was happy to eat through our freezer during pregnancy so we could get a big Cook delivery 😄
Our worst present was a massive hamper of baked goods. Delish but last thing I wanted in my flabby postnatal state 😄 so it’s really personal and I don’t think it’s the right time for surprises 😄 see what your friend would like OP! She might say ‘surprise me’ but at least then you know she’s pro-surprise.