The Best Gifts for New Moms: Our Favorite Pregnancy, Postpartum & Motherhood Essentials

As doulas and moms, we hear the same thing over and over—everyone is busy shopping for the baby, but almost no one stops to ask, “What does the mom actually need?” That’s why this special episode of the Mom2Mom Podcast is all about the best gifts for new moms.

Whether you’re pregnant, preparing for childbirth, navigating those early postpartum days, or shopping for someone you love, we pulled together products that make a real difference. Every item on this list is something we personally use, love, and gift to our clients.

As Stephanie shared, “We are so intentional about what we recommend. Everything today is something that we personally use, that we personally love, and that we gift to our clients.”

Birth + Motherhood Affirmation Decks

One of the most meaningful gifts for any expecting or postpartum mom is support she can see and feel. Our Birth Affirmations and Motherhood Affirmation Decks were created for those exact moments.

These cards offer grounding, encouragement, and connection—especially helpful during labor or late-night feeds. As Stephanie said, “These affirmations are like a deep breath in a card… it’s like having our doulas right there with you.” These are gifts that stay with a mom long after the moment she opens them. 

Wild Sprouts Movement Cards by Root to Bloom

Created by a Minnesota mom, Anna, and illustrated by our very own Julie from P&W Designs who is in the back end of How2Mom, these animal-inspired movement cards help kids work through big feelings using body-based practices. From “butterfly hugs” to “gorilla taps,” the movements help little ones reset their nervous system in a fun, accessible way.

It’s technically a gift for kids… but every parent knows that anything that helps kids regulate also supports the whole family. 

Stephanie explained it perfectly during the podcast:  “These cards give kids and grownups tools to release built-up energy, calm their nervous system, reconnect with their bodies, and build emotional resilience.”

Hydration needs skyrocket during pregnancy, birth prep, and breastfeeding. LMNT is one of our go-to essentials for moms who want electrolytes without sugar or fillers.

We use them daily, and we recommend them to every client: “They’re clean, delicious, and packed with electrolytes that actually help you feel better.” These packets are a favorite for:

  • nighttime nursing
  • labor preparation
  • boosting energy
  • avoiding dehydration headaches

A small, practical gift that makes a big difference. Shop our affiliate link below. 

Wishing Well Laundry Detergent — Non-Toxic & Baby-Safe

If you’re nesting or supporting someone who is, switching to a safer laundry detergent is a simple and meaningful shift. Let’s be honest, it’s great for ALL not just new moms. Wishing Well, another woman-owned Minnesota company, makes non-toxic detergent that’s gentle on newborn skin and genuinely effective.

“Babies equal lots of laundry,” Stephanie laughed, and this detergent keeps things safe without overwhelm. They also offer fragrance-free and “After Glow” options—both client favorites.

Use Discount Code: HOW2MOM15 when you order at Wishing Well.

For moms wanting a lower-toxin home without shopping at five different stores, Melaleuca offers an easy, reliable lineup. Stephanie has used their products for ten years. Her top favorites we include in client welcome gifts:

  • Renew Lotion — fragrance-free, fast-absorbing, and incredibly healing (amazing for Minnesota winters).
  • Sunshades Chapstick — clean, hydrating, and perfect for labor bags or diaper bags.

They also carry baby-safe products, cleaning supplies, and supplements—making this a great all-around gift option.

LoveBug Probiotics for Moms & Babies

Founded by a mom who deeply understands gut health, LoveBug creates targeted probiotics for every age—from infants to adults. This is one of the gifts we love recommending because the benefits go far beyond the bottle.

Stephanie shared:  “We’ve seen moms go from being strep B positive in one pregnancy to negative in the next because they were so diligent with probiotics.”

And for babies, probiotics can support digestion, soothe gas issues, and help reduce colicky symptoms—especially after antibiotics or a C-section birth. What are you waiting for? 

Name Story Posters — Personalized Nursery Gifts

These custom prints include a child’s name, meaning, origin, and attributes. They make beautiful nursery décor and unforgettable keepsakes. “We’ve gifted so many of these to clients,” Stephanie said. “New parents treasure them.”

They can also include the baby’s birthdate—making them a thoughtful gift for new or expecting families. Use discount code H2M to get your own at Name Stories.

Expecting and Empowered Prenatal & Postpartum Workouts

Movement during pregnancy and postpartum can feel confusing. This app removes all of the guesswork with safe, functional workouts created by a physical therapist and strength coach.

These programs support moms through:

  • Pregnancy
  • C-section recovery
  • early postpartum healing
  • rebuilding strength safely

It’s one of our most recommended resources because it grows with moms through every stage. Check out the Expecting and Empowered App and use our code HOW2MOMFIT.

Earth Mama Organics — A Postpartum Classic

Earth Mama is a cult favorite for a reason. Their products—belly oils, herbal sprays, nipple creams, perineal sprays—are the kind of gifts that make postpartum feel a little gentler.

“Earth Mama’s postpartum items were a lifesaver for me,” Stephanie shared, and we hear that from moms constantly. Safe, clean, effective, and mom-approved. Use our code H2M and check out Earth Mama Organics.

Our Amazon Storefront for Pregnancy, Birth & Postpartum

For moms who want everything in one easy-to-shop place, our Amazon storefront includes:

  • pregnancy essentials
  • hospital bag must-haves
  • postpartum recovery items
  • breastfeeding tools
  • older sibling gifts

Especially during holiday sales, this list makes it simple to prep, shop, and save.

Practical takeaways for choosing the best gifts for new moms

Here are a few reminders from the episode:

  • Choose gifts that support a mom’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
  • Look for items she’ll use daily, not just once.
  • Think beyond the baby—moms need gifts too.
  • Experience-based support (movement, affirmations, hydration) is often more valuable than “stuff.”
  • Small, practical gifts can have a big impact on a mom’s day-to-day comfort.
  • Personalized gifts help moms feel seen, celebrated, and loved.

Pin This Blog

How2Mom.Pinterest Pin Templates

Any/all of the links in this blog may be affiliate links of which How 2 Mom, LLC receives a small commission, without any additional cost to you. Using affiliate links help us maintain our website, continue to provide for our community, and support our families, and we are forever grateful for your support! 

Leave a Reply