8 Gift Ideas for New Mums That Aren’t Just Flowers

We’ve all been there — a new baby arrives and the default gift is… flowers. And don’t get me wrong, they’re beautiful. But they wilt. They need a vase (which might be in the dishwasher, or who knows where). And in those early postpartum days? What new mums actually need is support, nourishment, and practicality.

So whether you’re showing up for a friend, sister, partner, or colleague — here are eight thoughtful, useful, genuinely appreciated gift ideas for new mums that go beyond the bouquet. 💐

1. Hours with a Local Postpartum Doula

Postpartum doulas are like having a wise, calm, non-judgemental extra set of hands in the house. They might help with newborn care, prep food, tidy the kitchen, or just hold space while mum processes the birth.

Even gifting just 3–4 hours of support can be a game-changer — especially in those first few blurry weeks.

Where to find one:

• Doula UK directory
• Honestly, just check Instagram. Just search your area + doula. If you can only find a birth doula, reach out to them and ask for recommendation. Doulas are generally a very well networked bunch. 

2. Lactation Cookies from Milk it

Soft-baked, functional, and indulgent — these are snacks with benefits. Made with ingredients traditionally used to support milk supply (like oats, flax, brewer’s yeast, and fenugreek), they’re a gift that nourishes her, not just the baby.

Each box is:

• Freshly baked to order
• Designed for one-handed snacking

• Made to support postpartum energy, healing, and feeding
  

Gift a box and order here

3. Postpartum Meals from Food Doula

This is the gold standard of food support: warming, healing meals delivered straight to her door during the most tender, sleep-deprived weeks.

The Food Doula offers beautifully curated 3, 5, or 7-day packages of postpartum meals, snacks, and herbal tonics — all rooted in the principles of Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Each day includes:

• A morning herbal tonic
• A nourishing lunch and dinner
• A functional snack for the afternoon

It’s the kind of support that feels like a hug from the inside — designed to aid digestion, calm the nervous system, and give new mums the energy they actually need.

4. A Postpartum Herbal Bath Soak

This isn’t just a feel-good luxury — it’s a genuinely supportive recovery tool.

The Postpartum Herbal Bath Soak from Mum Bub Hub is made with calendula, lavender, and comfrey: herbs traditionally used to soothe inflammation, promote tissue repair, and support perineal healing after birth.

It can be used in a full bath or as a sitz bath, making it ideal for anyone recovering from tearing, stitches, or general soreness. Even just five minutes of soaking can reduce swelling, ease discomfort, and offer a rare moment of calm.

5. A Kindle (or Hands-Free Kindle Setup)

If she’s feeding around the clock, having something to read — without holding a chunky book — is a gift. A Kindle or Kindle stand + gift card for new books can feel surprisingly luxurious.

Bonus points for pre-loading it with titles you know she’ll love (we recommend Matrescence by Lucy Jones)  or some funny low-effort page-turners. 

6. ☕ A Proper Insulated Mug

How many times does a new mum reheat her tea? (Answer: infinity.)

Get her something that keeps drinks warm without having to reheat them. These aren't just for on-the-go, she can keep these on her bedside table or sofa table for an always-hot, spill-free cuppa. 

Pro tip: choose one that fits in a pram cupholder too like this one from Fellow.

7. A Big, Easy-to-Drink Water Bottle

Hydration = essential, especially if she’s breastfeeding. Look for something that:

• Has a straw or one-handed lid
• Is actually big enough (at least 1L)
• Doesn’t leak when tipped over by tiny hands

This is the kind of gift she might not buy for herself — but will reach for daily.

8.Cosy, Button-Down Pyjamas

Sleepwear becomes daywear and nightwear all at once, and button-down makes feeds or pumping way easier.

These cotton pyjamas from TBCo are soft, breathable, and actually cute. They feel like a treat she wouldn’t buy for herself.

❤️ The Text to Send Instead of “Let Me Know If You Need Anything”

This video from @cameronoaksrogers on TikTok says it perfectly — don’t wait for permission to support. Send this message instead:

@cameronoaksrogers For anyone looking for a way to show up for their friend who just had a kid, this is for you! #momtok #momsoftiktok #newmom #postpartum #newmomlife #giftideas #momgift ♬ original sound - Cameron Oaks Rogers

“I want to help you. Would you prefer I bring over a meal, hold the baby while you shower, or do a load of laundry?”

She makes a great point: new mums don’t always know how to ask. Just offer something tangible.

✨ The Best Gift? Keep Showing Up.

The most powerful gift for a new mum is continuity. Not just showing up in week one, but checking in during month three, six, twelve.

Keep texting. Keep feeding her. Keep asking what she needs. Her identity is shifting, her days are full, and support in the longer stretch is often what matters most.

Postpartum is tender. Let’s gift like it matters — because it does.

Written by Mel Brittner: birth and postpartum doula and mum of two