What is the best gift for new mums and babies?
The best gift for a new mum will ultimately depend on the person you’re buying for, their parenting style and, of course, your budget. I rate everything I’ve included here, but it’s worth thinking about the individual as well as the price tag – something they’ll genuinely use is always going to beat a present that’s simply pretty.
If I had to pick just one, though, my top choice would be the Rockit portable baby rocker. There aren’t many new parents who couldn’t do with a helping hand when it comes to getting their baby to sleep, and I love how this simple little gadget takes over the job of gently rocking the pram when your arms – or patience – need a break.
Practical gifts never go amiss, but I’d choose something a little more considered than nappies or wipes. I love the Sunny & Moon muslins for stylish parents, while the Bobbin + Bumble changing mat and Mori sleepsuits turn everyday essentials into something that feels more special.
If you’ve got a little more to spend, or you’re clubbing together for a bigger present, the BabyBjorn bouncer bliss is a brilliant investment that will get plenty of use, while a box of Cook meals might be one of the most appreciated gifts of all – because sometimes dinner is the last thing new parents have the energy to think about.
How I tested gifts for new mums and babies
As a second-time expectant parent, I’ve been through the newborn stage once already, so I know first-hand what new parents and babies actually need in those early days – and, perhaps more importantly, what they’ll genuinely appreciate. Ahead of my new arrival, I tested all of the products in this round-up, assessing them against the following criteria:
- Practicality: I considered whether each product solves a genuine problem or makes life with a newborn that little bit easier, rather than simply being nice to have.
- Ease of use: I looked at how straightforward each item was to set up, use, clean, carry and store, particularly with a newborn in tow.
- Quality and design: I assessed the materials, construction, finish and overall feel, as well as whether each product felt durable enough to withstand daily use.
- Usefulness for parents and babies: I considered how each product fits into real-life newborn routines, from feeding and changing to sleeping and getting out and about.
- Value for money: I compared the price with what you get, considering how long each product is likely to be useful and whether it feels like a worthwhile gift.
- Giftability: As this is a gift guide, I also considered presentation, design and whether each product feels special enough to give, while still being something a new parent will actually use.
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
IndyBest’s assistant editor, Sarah Jones has years of experience rigorously testing a wide range of pregnancy, baby and parenting products, from the best maternity pyjamas to the best stretch mark creams. Currently pregnant with her second child, Sarah has already experienced the newborn stage and knows first-hand which products can make those early weeks easier, and which ones are simply nice to have.
Ahead of her new arrival, Sarah tested each product in this round-up, considering what makes a genuinely useful gift for both new parents and their baby. As a parent, she knows the practical details that matter, assessing each product for ease of use, quality, design, value for money and how well it fits into everyday life with a newborn, as well as whether it feels special enough to give as a gift.
Read more: Best prams, buggies and pushchairs, approved by parents
