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25 BEST GIFTS FOR NEW MOMS

The birth of a baby is a special time that brings happiness and excitement, but it also requires a lot of adjustments. New moms are like superheroes starting a wonderful, but often tired, journey. To show your love and support, a well-chosen gift can make their experience easier and more enjoyable. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to pick the right present. Don’t worry! This list has 25 great gift ideas for new moms, suited to different needs and budgets.

BEST GIFTS FOR NEW MOMS

NURSING ENTERTAINMENT

When it comes to gifts for moms-to-be, nursing entertainment options can be a thoughtful and practical choice. New moms often spend long hours breastfeeding their babies, and having something to keep them entertained during those moments can make a big difference. Consider giving a subscription to audiobooks, podcasts, or streaming services so that they can enjoy their favorite shows or listen to engaging stories while caring for their little one. These gifts not only provide entertainment but also help moms relax and make nursing sessions more enjoyable.

ESARORA ICE ROLLER

The Esarora Ice Roller is a fantastic choice for new moms. This handy device offers a refreshing and soothing experience, especially during those hectic early days of motherhood. The ice roller can help reduce puffiness, soothe tired eyes, and relieve headaches, providing much-needed relief for sleep-deprived moms. Its compact size and ease of use make it convenient for quick self-care sessions whenever they need a little pick-me-up. The Esarora Ice Roller is a budget-friendly gift for women under $25 that can make a significant impact on a new mom’s well-being and self-care routine.

A HEALING BALM

Among the top gifts for women in 2022, the Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream stands out as a perfect choice for new parents. With the constant need for handwashing due to diaper changes, spit-up, and the delicate immune systems of newborns, parenthood brings a whole new level of importance to maintaining supple skin. This intensively moisturizing cream has long been a favorite of Wirecutter staff and is considered a classic in the beauty world. It combines powerful moisturizers like lanolin, beeswax, sweet almond, and sunflower seed oils to prevent water loss, along with soothing botanicals such as chamomile, viola tricolor, and calendula. 

LOULOU LOLLIPOP NEW YORK CITY DELUXE MUSLIN SWADDLE BLANKET

A classic receiving blanket, like the incredibly soft muslin one from Loulou Lollipop, is a versatile gift that can serve multiple purposes for new moms. Aside from being an excellent swaddle for the baby, it can also be used as a nursing shawl, a cover for the car seat, and a burp cloth. With its New York-themed design, it adds a touch of style and charm to any baby ensemble. This multipurpose blanket is not only practical but also a lovely and thoughtful gift for new moms.

LOW-EFFORT DINNER 

Low-effort is also on the list of best gifts for new mothers. Adjusting to life with a newborn can be overwhelming, leaving little time and energy to prepare meals. That’s why gifting a meal delivery service or a selection of pre-made frozen meals can be a thoughtful and practical choice. With these options, new mothers can enjoy delicious and nutritious dinners without the hassle of cooking. It gives them the convenience and comfort they need during this busy time, allowing them to focus on taking care of their little ones.

MOBILE PHOTO PRINTER

A mobile photo printer can be a great gift for new moms. It’s a simple device that allows them to print photos directly from their smartphones. With this handy gadget, new moms can easily capture and print precious moments with their little ones. Whether it’s a cute smile or a milestone achievement, they can instantly have physical copies of these special memories. The mobile photo printer is portable and easy to use, making it convenient for on-the-go printing. 

A ONE-HANDED WATER BOTTLE

An essential item for new moms on the go is a one-handed water bottle. This cleverly designed water bottle allows them to stay hydrated with ease, even while juggling the demands of taking care of their little one. With its innovative design, moms can open and close the bottle using just one hand, leaving their other hand free for holding the baby, pushing a stroller, or attending to other tasks. The spill-proof feature ensures that they can take a sip whenever they need it, without worrying about leaks or messes. 

BABY FOOTPRINT KIT & HANDPRINT KIT

This delightful kit is a perfect gift for new moms who want to capture and cherish those precious early memories. The setting clay allows them to create a beautiful keepsake of their baby’s tiny hands and feet, preserving them in a unique and sentimental way. With the included alphabet stamps, they can personalize the frame by adding their child’s name and birth date, making it a truly special memento that they can treasure for years to come.

TINY GOLD HOOPS

When babies begin to grab things, wearing large jewelry becomes impractical. That’s where Automic Gold’s Mini Seamless Huggie Hoops come to the rescue. These timeless and ungraspable earrings are made in New York from 14-karat yellow, white, or rose gold, which is upcycled from old electronics and jewelry. The hoops feature an invisible lock that clasps securely, requiring just a fingertip to locate the open edge for opening and closing them. Their seamless construction ensures comfort, making them suitable for wearing even during sleep, which is especially convenient for new moms who catch some much-needed rest whenever they can.

BABY’S FRIEND

If you ask any experienced parent, they’ll emphasize one important item: Sophie the giraffe. This adorable teether in the shape of a giraffe is renowned for providing comfort to babies, and it’s crafted from 100 percent natural rubber. It’s a universal favorite among babies, including both of my own daughters. There’s something about its design that makes it ideal for tiny hands and mouths. We never left home without it, as it quickly became an essential companion for our little ones.

SOOTHING NURSING PILLOWS

Soothing nursing pillows are a wonderful gift for new moms. These pillows provide comfort and support during breastfeeding sessions, making the experience more relaxed and enjoyable. They are specially designed to help moms find a comfortable position while feeding their baby, reducing strain on their back, neck, and arms. The softness and cushioning of the pillows provide a cozy nest for the baby, promoting a secure and close bond between mom and child. With soothing nursing pillows, new moms can have a more comfortable and nurturing breastfeeding experience, making it a thoughtful and practical gift choice.

A BOX OF SURPRISE

This special box is filled with a variety of surprises and treats to bring joy and pampering to the new mom. It may include self-care items like bath bombs, scented candles, face masks, or relaxing teas. It could also contain small gifts for the baby, such as cute onesies or soft toys. The element of surprise adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation for the new mom, making it a truly memorable and heartwarming gift. This box of surprises is a wonderful way to show love and support to the new mom during this important and transformative time in her life.

SILICONE BREAST PUMP

This type of breast pump is made from soft and flexible silicone material, which makes it comfortable to use. It works by creating a gentle suction that helps draw out breast milk. Silicone breast pumps are compact, portable, and easy to clean, making them convenient for on-the-go use. They are especially handy for collecting milk during breastfeeding sessions or when experiencing let-down on the opposite breast. With a silicone breast pump, new moms can easily and discreetly collect breast milk, providing them with an efficient and convenient option for breastfeeding and milk storage.

BABY’S BACKPACK

If you’re seeking a practical and unexpected gift for a new mom, consider a fantastic hiking backpack that can be used for outdoor adventures or even everyday outings. This hiking baby carrier boasts padded shoulder straps and a spacious hip belt, ensuring the utmost comfort. It features convenient pockets in the hip belt for easy access to phones and wallets, as well as ample storage space for all the essential items in a diaper bag. The little one will relish the elevated and secure padded seat, the removable napping pillow, the optional sunshade, and the opportunity to view the wonders of the great outdoors. This hiking backpack is a thoughtful and versatile gift that will prove invaluable throughout the coming year.

BABY BOUNCER

These versatile and entertaining items provide a safe and comfortable place for babies to play and relax. The gentle bouncing motion can soothe and entertain little ones, giving moms a much-needed break. Some baby bouncers come with additional features like music, vibrations, and toys to stimulate the baby’s senses. They are portable and easy to move around the house, allowing moms to keep an eye on their little one while attending to other tasks. 

SELF-WATERING POTS

With a self-watering pot, new moms don’t have to worry about constantly monitoring and watering their plants. The built-in reservoir system ensures that the plants receive the right amount of water without the risk of overwatering or underwatering. This feature is especially beneficial for moms who may have limited time or experience in plant care. Self-watering pots not only bring beauty and greenery to the home but also offer a convenient and low-maintenance solution for nurturing plants.

SKINCARE GIFT

She’s probably stocked up on everything the baby needs, but it’s important to consider her own well-being too. This clean skin care set is a thoughtful gift that includes three essential items (nipple balm, body cream, and face wash) specially curated for new moms. These products are fragrance-free, paraben-free, and phthalate-free, ensuring gentle and safe care for her skin during this special time.

A PERSONALIZED NECKLACE

If you’re looking for a timeless piece to last long after the days of swaddles and sleep regressions, we suggest the 14k Gold Asymmetrical Initial Necklace from Los Angeles–based jeweler Zoe Lev. Each necklace is forged from recycled yellow, white, or rose gold. It’s likely to become the kind of piece she never takes off. The sideways initial in a sans serif font has a modern appeal that’s classic enough to fit a range of styles. Zoe Lev also offers repairs and alterations—such as adding another initial down the road—for a nominal fee.

MIRACLE BABY MIRACLE BLANKET

If you’re seeking a reliable and tried-and-true swaddle option, Laura Izumikawa, a blogger, author, and mom of two, highly recommends the Miracle Blanket. This traditional-style swaddle has proven to be foolproof in her experience. According to Laura, swaddling her girls in this specific wrap brought them increased contentment and longer sleep durations.

RECORD SPECIAL MOMENTS

The early years fly by in no time! Capture all the wonderful moments with this charming baby book. The Memory Book is a 48-page keepsake designed thoughtfully for busy parents. It features simple prompts to record key milestones and provides convenient spaces to attach photos, making it effortless to document and cherish those precious memories.

SWEET READS

Attempting to encapsulate the multifaceted journey of motherhood in a single sentence, paragraph, or book is an immense task. However, Grace Farris, a doctor, mother, and author, bravely takes on this challenge in her illustrated manual, Mom Milestones. Born from her popular Instagram account, this book showcases heartwarming and insightful sketches that delve into her own humbling experiences of parenthood. From the early stages of being a Newborn Mom to navigating the world of Elementary School Mom, Farris traces the evolution of a mother with poignant reflections like “Notes I Would Send Myself” and “Tricks That Don’t Work.” Particularly for new moms, this affirming read serves as a literary road map, offering guidance through the challenging yet immensely rewarding path that lies ahead.

GIFT CARD

Takeout-delivery gift cards are always great for new parents, but there’s something to be said for having a stash of wholesome, ready-to-go frozen meals on hand when they’re feeling peckish. Ipsa, which several Strategist staffers and I swear by, allows folks to order high-end, actually delicious dishes like lasagne ai funghi and green-chicken enchilada bake à la carte.

TOTE

It’s important not to underestimate the amount of items a new mom needs to carry around. This lovely bag will become her trusted companion during errand runs, trips to the park, doctor’s appointments, and beyond. Additionally, it comes in a versatile black color that helps conceal any spills or messes that may occur along the way. With this bag, new moms can stay organized and stylish while effortlessly managing all their essential belongings.

BAD-HAIR DAYS, BEGONE

Hair claws are having a renaissance, and no demographic is better suited to embracing the trend than newly anointed moms. The Emi Jay Big Effing Clip is mom and senior editor Catherine Kast’s favorite clip for a few reasons: It’s huge, sturdy, and crack resistant, and it comes in a ton of fun shades and finishes. And it’s versatile enough for every stage of new-momhood, from the stage where the new mom doesn’t wash her hair to the stage where the little one pulls out her hair to the stage where she finally ventures out on her first, much-needed date night.

ORGANIC MIXED FRUIT

This thoughtful and nutritious gift provides a variety of delicious fruits that are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, ensuring a healthier option for both the mom and her family. Organic mixed fruit gifts often include a selection of seasonal fruits, such as apples, oranges, berries, and tropical fruits, providing a vibrant and flavorful assortment. These fruits are not only packed with vitamins and minerals but also offer natural sweetness and refreshing flavors. Offering an organic mixed fruit gift to a new mom is a delightful way to promote her well-being and provide a nourishing treat during this special time.

CONCLUSION

The 25 best gifts for new moms encompass a wide range of thoughtful and practical options that cater to their needs and celebrate this transformative journey. From luxurious self-care items to functional baby gear, these gifts aim to support and uplift new moms during this extraordinary chapter of their lives. With the best gifts for new moms, we can show our appreciation and help them navigate the joys and challenges of motherhood with love, care, and a touch of indulgence.

12 WAYS TO FIX FRIZZY HAIR

Are you tired of dealing with uncontrollable frizz that seems to have a mind of its own? Frizzy hair can be a common and frustrating issue for many individuals, but fear not – there are effective solutions to help you achieve smooth and sleek locks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 12 proven ways to tackle frizz and restore the natural beauty of your hair. From simple adjustments to your hair care routine to innovative styling techniques, we’ve compiled a range of strategies to address frizz at its roots. Say goodbye to the constant with unruly hair and say hello to a smoother, more manageable mane. 

WHAT CAUSES FRIZZY HAIR?

Frizzy hair is often caused by a lack of moisture. When the hair is dry and deprived of moisture, the cuticle layer (the outermost layer of the hair shaft) becomes rough and raised. This allows the hair to absorb moisture from the air, causing it to swell and creating a frizzy appearance. Several factors contribute to this lack of moisture, including:

Humidity: High humidity levels in the environment can lead to increased moisture absorption by the hair, resulting in frizz.

Heat Styling: Excessive use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz.

Harsh Hair Products: Certain shampoos and conditioners containing sulfates and alcohol can contribute to dryness and frizz. Additionally, using products with silicones without proper cleansing can lead to product buildup, making hair appear frizzy.

Overwashing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to frizz.

Environmental Factors: Exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as wind and sun, can contribute to frizz by depleting the hair’s moisture.

Hair Type: Some individuals naturally have hair that is more prone to frizz due to its texture, such as curly or wavy hair.

HOW TO TREAT FRIZZY HAIR

USE SULFATE- AND SILICONE-FREE PRODUCTS

Using hair care products containing silicones and sulfates may lead to dryness in your hair. Opt for products that explicitly state “silicone and sulfate-free” on the bottle. Seek alternatives with ingredients such as essential oils, biotin, and herbal extracts.

Be cautious about products containing alcohol, as it can contribute to dryness and frizz. If your sulfate-free shampoo doesn’t produce much foam or bubbles, don’t worry. Sulfates are responsible for creating the foaming effect, and your new products may not lather as much.

WASH YOUR HAIR WITH WARM WATER

When you shower with hot water, the oils needed to keep your hair healthy are lost. This can leave your hair dry and frizzy after showering. To prevent this situation, when washing your hair, use warm water instead of water that is too hot. If you notice steam rising in the shower, it’s a sign that the water may be too hot and can strip your hair of its natural oils. Adjusting the water temperature to warm instead of hot can help keep your hair more moisturized and less prone to frizz. Besides, consider using the best shampoos for dry and frizzy hair.

USE A CONDITIONER AFTER WASH YOUR HAIR

Nourish your hair with essential moisture to keep frizz at bay. After washing your hair, use a quarter-sized amount of leave-in conditioner specifically designed for frizzy hair. Apply it from the middle to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots to prevent a greasy appearance. Allow the leave-in conditioner for frizzy hair to work its magic for 2 to 3 minutes before rinsing.

When washing your hair, be gentle with the shampooing process to avoid causing frizz and dryness. After washing, a leave-in conditioner for frizzy hair becomes your ally in taming unruly strands and maintaining moisture.

TRY A DEEP CONDITIONER ONCE A WEEK

For an extra boost of hydration and control over dry, frizzy hair, consider incorporating the best leave-in conditioner for dry frizzy hair into your routine. Once a week, treat your locks to a deep conditioning session using a high-quality leave-in conditioner. Apply a generous amount of the deep conditioner, ensuring thorough coverage from roots to tips. Allow the product to penetrate your hair for an extended period, ideally following the recommended time on the product label. 

This weekly ritual will not only infuse your hair with much-needed moisture but also work to combat frizz, leaving your locks looking smoother and more manageable.

SQUEEZE MOISTURE OUT WITH A TOWEL

Rubbing or scrubbing your hair with a towel can cause a lot of friction and make your hair frizzy. It might even damage or break the ends of your hair. After showering, take your towel and gently pat your hair until it’s not super wet. Wrap your hair in the towel to soak up the remaining water and keep it wrapped for about 5 minutes. If you can, use a microfiber towel instead of a regular one because they are softer on your hair and can help prevent frizz.

COMB THROUGH YOUR HAIR WHEN IT’S MOSTLY DRY

When your hair is mostly dry, it’s a good time to comb through it. Using a comb on semi-dry hair helps to detangle without causing unnecessary breakage or damage. Wet hair is more prone to breakage, so waiting until your hair is mostly dry reduces the risk. Start by combing from the ends and work your way up to the roots to gently remove any knots or tangles. This simple practice contributes to maintaining the health of your hair, leaving it smoother and more manageable.

LIMIT YOUR USE OF HEAT STYLING TOOLS

Try not to use heat styling tools too often. Things like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can make your hair dry and frizzy. If you can, let your hair air dry instead of using a blow dryer. Save straightening or curling for special times, and when you do use them, use a heat protectant to keep your hair safe. Using heat styling tools too much can lead to damage and more frizz in the long run. So, limit how often you use them to keep your hair healthy and happy.

TOUCH YOUR HAIR AS LITTLE AS POSSIBLE

Whether your hair is wet or dry, it’s crucial to avoid touching it excessively. Regardless of your hair type, constant touching can lead to increased frizz and puffiness. This is because your fingers can absorb the natural oils from your hair, disrupting its texture. Unless you’re styling your hair, refrain from running your hands through it. This advice is particularly crucial for individuals with curly or wavy hair. Disturbing the natural curl pattern can result in loose, frizzy curls. Therefore, minimize unnecessary touching to maintain the integrity and definition of your hair’s texture, especially if you have curly or wavy locks.

APPLY ARGAN OIL TO THE ENDS OF YOUR HAIR

To address dry hair frizz, try using the best hair oil for frizzy hair, such as argan oil. Apply a few drops of argan oil to your palms and gently run it through the ends of your hair, focusing on smoothing out frizz. This not only helps combat frizz but also imparts a sleek and shiny finish to your hair. Avoid applying the oil directly to your scalp to prevent a greasy appearance, particularly if it has been a few days since your last wash. Concentrate on the ends for a polished look without the risk of greasiness.

TAMP DOWN FRIZZ WITH HAIR WAX

Dealing with flyaways at the crown of your head can be quite bothersome. Take a quarter-sized amount of hair wax and use two fingers to gently smooth down individual flyaways. You can continue using hair wax throughout the day to manage your hairstyle and control frizz. The good thing about hair wax is that it’s not oily or greasy, making it safe to apply near your roots.

SLEEP ON A SILK PILLOWCASE

If you’re dealing with frizzy hair, consider making a simple change in your bedtime routine by sleeping on a silk pillowcase. Unlike cotton, silk causes less friction, which can help reduce frizz. Cotton pillowcases can be harsh on your hair, causing it to tangle and become frizzy overnight. The smooth surface of a silk pillowcase allows your hair to glide easily, minimizing the risk of frizz and breakage. 

Additionally, silk helps retain the natural oils in your hair, keeping it moisturized and less prone to dryness. Making this small adjustment can contribute to waking up with smoother, more manageable hair.

TRIM YOUR SPLIT ENDS REGULARLY

Regularly trimming your split ends is a crucial step in maintaining healthy and beautiful hair. Split ends can make your hair look frizzy and dull, so getting rid of them is essential for a smoother and more polished appearance. Make it a routine to trim your split ends every few months to prevent them from traveling up the hair shaft and causing more damage. This simple practice not only helps in managing frizz but also promotes overall hair health, ensuring that your locks look their best.

FAQ

1. Is frizzy hair unhealthy?

No. Frizzy hair is not necessarily unhealthy; it is often a result of dryness or lack of moisture. 

2. What makes frizzy hair worse?

Frizz results from hair lacking moisture, leading it to absorb moisture from the surrounding air, especially in humid conditions.

3. Why is my hair so frizzy even after using conditioner?

Frizz post-conditioning may result from not applying conditioner on wet hair. To address dryness and prevent frizz, use a deep conditioning masque for added moisture.

CONCLUSION

These 12 effective ways to combat frizzy hair provide a comprehensive guide to achieving smoother and more manageable locks. Whether through proper moisture maintenance, gentle hair care practices, or strategic styling techniques, incorporating these tips into your routine can help you tame frizz and promote overall hair health. Experiment with these suggestions to discover the combination that works best for your hair type, ensuring that you can confidently say goodbye to frizz and hello to sleek, beautiful hair.