What to Give a New Mom: The Complete Guide to Useful and Appreciated Gifts
A friend, sister, or coworker has just given birth, and you’re looking for the perfect gift? Between three identical stuffed animals, newborn-sized baby clothes that he’ll only wear for two weeks, and useless gadgets, it’s hard to find a gift that will truly bring joy. Why not think about THE person who needs some attention: the mom herself?
At 23 Mai Paris, we support new moms every day. In this article, we’ll help you find the perfect gift: one that’s truly useful, that she’ll love, and that shows you’re thinking of her—not just the baby.
To find the perfect gift that combines style and practicality, check out our collection of nursing wear designed for new moms.
Why give a gift to the mom (and not just the baby)
The finding: gifts focused on the baby
When a baby arrives, gifts start pouring in. But for whom?
| Type of gift received | Estimated percentage |
|---|---|
| Baby Gifts | 90% |
| Gifts for Mom | 8% |
| Gifts for couples | 2% |
What new moms feel
| Sentiment | What causes it |
|---|---|
| Invisibility | All the gifts are for the baby |
| Self-forgetfulness | No one thinks of her as a woman anymore |
| Unrecognized fatigue | We only see the "joy" of motherhood |
| The need to feel beautiful | The body has changed, and so has identity |
| Looking for convenience | Daily life has been turned upside down |
What moms would like to receive
| What they really want | Why |
|---|---|
| A gift for HER | To feel seen and valued |
| Something useful | Simplify their new daily routine |
| A touch of sweetness | Counteract fatigue and stress |
| Beauty | Feeling like a woman, not just a mother |
| Time | The rarest commodity |
Key takeaway: The best gift for a new mom is one that shows you care about her, her needs, and her well-being.
Gifts that really bring joy
Nursing clothes: the perfect gift
If the mom is breastfeeding (or plans to breastfeed), nursing clothes are THE perfect gift. Here’s why:
| Advantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Extremely convenient | Makes every feeding easier, several times a day |
| Enhancing | She feels beautiful and stylish despite being tired |
| Sustainable | Can be used for months, or even more than a year |
| Staff | It's a gift for her, not for the baby |
| Not widely available | She won't have a triple of the original |
For an everyday gift that will be worn time and time again, our Breastfeeding t-shirts are a timeless essential for every breastfeeding mom.
Our selection by type of mom
| Mom's Profile | The perfect gift | Why |
|---|---|---|
| The pampering mom | Breastfeeding pyjamas | For restful nights |
| The Stylish Mom | Breastfeeding dress | Elegant in any situation |
| The Practical Mom | Basic T-shirts | Everyday Life Made Simple |
| The Working Mom | Tank top + sweatshirt | Versatile and comfortable |
| The Mom Who Gets Cold Easily | Breastfeeding sweatshirt | Warmth and convenience |
The most popular items
| Play | Why it's a success | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Breastfeeding t-shirt | An essential staple, worn every day | $30–$45 |
| Breastfeeding dress | Stylish, one-piece, super practical | €55–80 |
| Breastfeeding sweatshirt | Cozy and comfortable, perfect for home | €55–75 |
| Breastfeeding pyjamas | Better sleep, optimal comfort | €45–65 |
| Nursing tank top | As a base layer or on its own in the summer | €25–€35 |
For an elegant gift that can be worn on any occasion, our Breastfeeding dresses combine femininity and practicality, perfect for both going out and staying in.
Gift sets and collections
| Type of box | Suggested content | Budget | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential Gift Set | 2 Breastfeeding t-shirts | €60–80 | A practical gift |
| Pampering Gift Set | Pajamas + soft socks | €60–80 | Tired Mom |
| Complete set | T-shirt + sweatshirt + accessory | €100–130 | A generous gift |
| Deluxe Gift Set | Dress + T-shirt + pads | €120–150 | Special occasion |
Health and Wellness
| Gift | Why it's a good idea | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Massage oil | A moment of relaxation, good for the body | $15–$30 |
| Hand cream | Hands damaged by frequent washing | $10–$25 |
| High-quality lip balm | A little everyday luxury | €8–15 |
| Facial Care Set | Taking care of yourself | €30–€60 |
| Scented candle | A cozy atmosphere | €20–€40 |
Practical accessories
| Accessory | Purpose | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Washable nursing pads | Eco-friendly, economical, and attractive | €15–25 |
| Nursing necklace | Keeps baby entertained during feedings, elegant jewelry | €25–€40 |
| Insulated water bottle | Cold or hot water always within reach | €25–€40 |
| Stylish diaper bag | Practical and stylish | €50–€100 |
| Pregnancy/Nursing Headband | Covers your stomach—convenient | €15–25 |
Intangible gifts that are worth their weight in gold
Time: the most precious gift
A new mom is desperately short on time. Giving her time is the most precious gift:
| Idea | How to give it as a gift | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Babysitting | "I'll watch the baby for three hours; you can do whatever you want." | Priceless |
| Housekeeping | Give the gift of a professional cleaning service | €50–€100 |
| Shopping | Suggest doing the grocery shopping once a week | Free |
| Kitchen | Preparing meals to freeze | Free |
| Laundry detergent | Offer to take care of it | Free |
Wellness services
| Service | Why it's perfect | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Postpartum Massage | Relaxation, physical recovery | €60–100 |
| Facial Treatment | A moment for herself, radiant skin | €50–€80 |
| Mobile Hairdresser | Convenience, a moment of well-being | €50–€80 |
| Manicure | A little luxury that feels so good | €30–50 |
| Postnatal yoga class | Gentle recovery | $15–$25 per session |
Convenient subscriptions
| Subscription | Why is this useful? | Monthly budget |
|---|---|---|
| Meal kits delivered | No more worrying about what to make for dinner | €50–€100 |
| Streaming platform | Series during nighttime feedings | €10–15 |
| Grocery delivery | Huge time saver | €10–15 |
| Meditation app | Stress management, sleep | €5–15 |
Gifts for Every Budget
Less than €30
| Idea | Price | Why it's good |
|---|---|---|
| Washable nursing pads | €15–25 | Practical, eco-friendly, and featuring pretty designs |
| Hand cream + lip balm | €20–€30 | Little everyday luxuries |
| Scented candle | €20–€30 | A moment of relaxation |
| Good for free time | Free | The most precious |
| Herbal teas for breastfeeding + chocolates | €15–25 | Delicious and comforting |
For moms who get hot at night, our nursing tank tops are perfect as a base layer or on their own during warm weather.
Between €30 and €60
| Idea | Price | Why it's good |
|---|---|---|
| Breastfeeding t-shirt | €35–45 | Useful for everyday life |
| Handcrafted nursing necklace | €25–€40 | Jewelry + practical function |
| Natural Skincare Set | €40–60 | Take care of her |
| Insulated water bottle + tea infuser | €35–50 | Easy hydration |
For a more restful night’s sleep despite frequent awakenings, our Breastfeeding pyjamas let you breastfeed without having to undress—a gift that will be used every night for months to come.
Between €60 and €100
| Idea | Price | Why it's good |
|---|---|---|
| Breastfeeding dress | €55–80 | Stylish and practical |
| Breastfeeding sweatshirt | €55–75 | Everyday Comfort |
| Set of 2 T-shirts + accessory | €70–90 | Practical set |
| Enjoy your massage | €60–100 | A moment of relaxation |
| Mommy-and-baby photo shoot | €80–150 | Precious memories |
For the perfect cozy gift for days at home or outings, our nursing sweatshirts wrap you in softness while making breastfeeding easy.
Over $100
| Idea | Price | Why it's good |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Wardrobe Set | €100–150 | Several matching pieces |
| Spa weekend | €150–300 | A well-deserved break |
| Custom jewelry | €100–€200 | Symbolic and sustainable |
| Massage device | €100–€200 | Well-being at Home |
| Food processor | €150–€400 | Saves time every day |
To put together aBreastfeeding dress , no-frillsBreastfeeding dress , check out our article How many nursing clothes do you really need?
Gifts Based on the Relationship
For her best friend
| What really hits the mark | Why |
|---|---|
| A personal and thoughtful gift | You know her well |
| With regard to your friendship | "So you can stay true to yourself" |
| Practicality + fun | Clothing + candle + chocolates |
| Time together | Offer to come and help him |
Gift set idea: Breastfeeding dress candle + personalized note
For her sister or sister-in-law
| What really hits the mark | Why |
|---|---|
| A gift that lasts | She'll think of you when she wears it |
| Quality | Show that she matters |
| Useful for everyday life | Practicality for her new life |
Gift set idea: 2 Breastfeeding t-shirts washable nursing pads
For a colleague
| What really hits the mark | Why |
|---|---|
| Appropriate gift | Not too intimate |
| Useful | She'll appreciate how practical it is |
| Reasonable budget | Often a group gift |
Idea: A cute Breastfeeding t-shirt a skincare set
For his girlfriend
| What really hits the mark | Why |
|---|---|
| Very personal | You know what he likes |
| Symbolic | Recognition of her new role |
| Accompanied by the weather | "I'll watch the baby while you enjoy yourself" |
Gift idea: Complete nursing wardrobe + massage voucher + babysitting service included
For a better understanding
| What really hits the mark | Why |
|---|---|
| A simple and useful gift | Not very engaging |
| Pretty | Show that you've put some thought into it |
| A heartfelt greeting card | It's the thought that counts |
Idea: A candle + chocolates + a little note or some cute nursing pads
How to choose the right size (without spoiling the surprise)
Tips to help you make the right choice
| Method | How to |
|---|---|
| Ask the partner | He/she knows his/her size |
| Look at his clothes | Discreetly check the labels |
| Choose stretch fabrics | More flexibility regarding size |
| Opt for loose-fitting styles | Less chance of error |
| Keep the ticket | If necessary, please contact us |
If you're unsure about the size
| Situation | Advice |
|---|---|
| You really don't know | Go up one size |
| She is slim | Its usual size |
| She has recently started breastfeeding | +1 size (larger bust) |
| She prefers loose-fitting clothes | +1 size |
Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
| Error | Why is this a problem? | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Too small | Negative body image after childbirth | Go up one size |
| Forgetting that your breasts change | Clothing that is too tight around the bust | Leave some wiggle room |
| Making a decision without thinking | Risk of not matching one's style | Pay attention to your tastes |
Common mistakes to avoid
Gifts to Avoid Giving
| A gift to avoid | Why |
|---|---|
| Yet another stuffed animal | She's already 15 |
| Newborn baby clothes | Worn for a maximum of 2 weeks |
| Baby care gadgets | Often unnecessary, bulky |
| Parenting Books | May be misinterpreted |
| Weight-loss products | Very ill-timed |
| Strong scent | The baby might have a bad reaction |
Mistakes to Avoid
| Misstep | Why is it viewed negatively? |
|---|---|
| Commenting on one's body | "Have you gone back to your old size?" = pressure |
| Compare with other moms | Every journey is unique |
| Giving unsolicited advice | She's already getting too much of it |
| Give a gift just for the baby | She feels invisible |
| To arrive empty-handed | Even a small gesture counts |
What you should never say when giving a gift
| Don't say that | What that implies |
|---|---|
| "To get back in shape" | Pressure on the body |
| "It'll hide my belly" | Body Shaming |
| "Whenever you have time" | Misplaced irony |
| "It's not much, but..." | Devaluation of the gift |
When to give the gift
Highlights
| Moment | Why it's good |
|---|---|
| A few weeks after the birth | She received the baby gifts—now it's her turn |
| During a visit | A moment of sharing |
| For Mother's Day (if it's her first) | Strong symbolism |
| For no particular reason | A welcome surprise |
| When she goes back to work | A difficult transition period |
Times to Avoid
| Moment | Why |
|---|---|
| The day of delivery | Too much to handle |
| At the same time as everyone else | Lost in the crowd |
| When she's exhausted | Not in a state to appreciate |
How to wrap the gift
Packaging matters
| Packaging type | Effect |
|---|---|
| Kraft paper + ribbon | Natural, elegant, trendy |
| Gift box | Premium, surprise effect |
| Cloth pouch | Reusable, eco-friendly |
| Gift bag with tissue paper | Festive, easy |
The little word that makes all the difference
Here are a few message ideas:
For a friend:
"This gift is for YOU. Not for the baby. It's for you—you're amazing and deserve to be pampered. Enjoy!"
For a sister:
"To my sister, now a mom: you're handling it like a champ. This little gift is to remind you to take care of yourself, too."
For a colleague:
"Welcome to the adventure of motherhood! We're thinking of you and can't wait to meet your little one."
For his partner:
"To the most beautiful mom: thank you for everything you do. This gift is to make you feel as beautiful as you are in my eyes."
Frequently Asked Questions
What if she doesn't breastfeed?
Nursing clothes are still beautiful even when you’re not breastfeeding. The cuts are flattering and the openings are discreet. Otherwise, consider gifts of self-care, time, or practical accessories for any new mom.
Should I ask her what she needs?
This is a good idea if you're close to her. Some moms prefer a surprise, while others appreciate receiving exactly what they need. If in doubt, a message like, "I'd like to get you a gift—for YOU, not for the baby. Any ideas?" is always welcome.
Can I give a gift together with other people?
Yes, that’s a great idea for a more substantial gift: a complete wardrobe, a spa weekend, a food processor… Just make sure everyone chips in equally.
When is the best time to give a gift?
Wait a few weeks after the birth. In the first few days, the new mom is overwhelmed with gifts for the baby and doesn’t have the energy to think about that. A gift received a month later, when the initial excitement has settled and fatigue sets in, is even more appreciated.
How can I tell if she's breastfeeding?
If you're not sure, you can subtly ask your partner or a close friend. If you can't figure it out, go for a gift that works either way: beauty products, quality time, or practical accessories.
Conclusion
Giving a gift to a new mom is a way of showing her that you see her as a person, beyond her new role as a mother. The best gifts are those that combine practicality with pleasure: nursing clothes that make her feel beautiful and simplify her daily life, time to relax, and products to help her take care of herself.
At 23 Mai Paris, we create nursing wear designed to support moms in their daily lives. Beautiful and practical pieces that let you feel like a woman while being a mother: the perfect gift to say "I'm thinking of you."
Discover our collection of nursing wear and find the perfect gift for a new mom.
If you're looking for a gift for a breastfeeding mom, here are our collections:
