Using pacifiers with breastfed babies always seems to be a controversial topic. Can my baby have a pacifier? Should I wait to introduce one? Will it cause nipple confusion? What are the best pacifiers for breastfed babies? The questions could go on. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 2022 updated breastfeeding guidelines reports that a review shows introducing a pacifier before or after the mother and baby duo establish breastfeeding does not impact the duration of breastfeeding for a healthy, full-term baby up until four months of age.¹

You may think, “This is great news, but is there a catch?” Not really, but here are some guidelines to make sure you and your baby use a pacifier appropriately to not interfere with breastfeeding. Ultimately, the decision is up to you, the parent — pacifier or no pacifier. Let’s dive into the benefits, risks, and guidance for how to pick the best pacifier for breastfed babies.

Benefits of Pacifier Use

It might be hard to believe, but there are benefits to infant pacifier use. Let’s start with one of the most important benefits. Research has shown that when an infant uses a pacifier when placed to sleep, it can decrease the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Pacifier use has also been shown to provide infants comfort, has been associated with helping infants when they’re in pain, and even can help premature infants develop a sucking reflex. And lastly, introducing the pacifier decreases the risk of developing a thumb- or finger-sucking habit.²

Risks of Pacifier Use

You must always weigh the benefits and risks to determine what is best for your baby. This is even true when deciding whether to introduce a pacifier to your breastfed baby. There are a handful of benefits to pacifier use but also risks. One of these risks includes the impact of pacifier use on developing otitis media as an infant and later as a child. Pacifiers also pose an increased risk of causing problems such as oral yeast infections due to carrying bacteria and other germs. And, after 36 months old, the risk of developing dental and orthodontic issues rises.²

Important Note for Pacifier Use for Breastfed Babies

Pacifiers are an excellent tool for helping babies soothe and calm down when upset. It is essential to pay close attention to your infant’s hunger cues. Do not delay or miss a feeding by giving your baby the pacifier. The pacifier should never be a substitute for the breast.

How to Choose a Pacifier for Breastfed Babies

The AAP gives the following guidance on choosing a pacifier:³

• The pacifier should not be able to come apart. Multiple pieces can increase the risk of choking. The pacifier should be of single construction.
• The pacifier should have ventilation holes and measure at least 1.5 inches across. This prevents the baby from fitting the whole pacifier in their mouth, helping prevent choking.
• Do not attach a pacifier to a cord or strap, especially around the infant’s neck. This could lead to an injury.
• Never use a bottle nipple as a pacifier. The full nipple could easily go into the infant’s mouth.
• Do not force a baby to use a pacifier if they do not want it.
• Regularly inspect the pacifier before giving it to the infant. Pacifiers can break and deteriorate.

Although the AAP gives guidance on what to look for in a pacifier, they do not specifically recommend a type or brand of pacifier. The vast pacifier market has many shapes, colors, nipple sizes, and materials. It may be a trial-and-error process to see what pacifier works best for your baby. A breastfeeding baby may benefit from using a pacifier that closely resembles the mother’s nipple, but no research supports this.

5 Options for the Best Pacifiers for Breastfed Babies

Here are five great options for pacifiers for breastfed babies.

1. Philips Avent Soothie

The Philips Avent Soothie, known to many as the “hospital paci,” is a one-piece design made of silicone. This pacifier has the bonus of being designed to support bonding through the ability to place a finger in the nipple to encourage suckling. The nipple slightly resembles moms with a straight nipple and broader pacifier base. Its silicone material also helps with oral development and makes it easy to clean and sterilize.

2. Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci

With a broader base and straight nipple, this pacifier resembles a mother’s nipple shape. This may be helpful when introducing the pacifier to the infant. The HappyPaci is lightweight, made of silicone, and has a unique “butterfly-shaped shield” that curves away from the nose and cheeks. As for safety concerns, the pacifier is made of one full piece, minimizing the risk of choking.

When deciding whether to use a pacifier for your breastfed baby, it is up to you. Do what is best for your little one. Finding the right pacifier fit might not happen immediately, but the market is vast. With the various materials, sizes, shapes, and textures, there is sure to be a pacifier to meet every baby’s need. When trying pacifiers with your little one, you may need to try a few before finding the best fit.

3. Evenflo Feeding Balance

This pacifier is designed by feeding specialists and has a cylindrical-shaped nipple, making it favorable for breastfeeding infants due to its resemblance to a mother’s nipple. The pacifier is made of 100% silicone and is one full piece, which is always recommended to decrease the risk of choking. The silicone material makes this pacifier not only flexible but also very lightweight.

4. Tommee Tippee Breast-like Pacifier

This is a pacifier specifically designed to mimic a mother’s nipple when it comes to its feel, flexibility, and ability to stretch. As a bonus, the base of the pacifier was created to curve away from the baby’s face to allow for better airflow and decrease irritation to the baby’s skin.

5. Nanobebe Flexy Pacifier

The Nanobebe Flexy Pacifier is a soft, flexible pacifier designed to fit snugly around your baby’s nose and to their baby’s help the pacifier stay in place. It is made of 100% silicone, providing the soft, familiar feel of a mother’s breast. The silicone material also makes it easy to clean and sterilize.

We hope this list gives you confidence in choosing the best pacifier for your breastfed baby.

The birth of a new baby is such a special time! It’s a sweet period full of memories that will last forever. People typically take many photos during this time to cherish their precious bundle of joy. Your friends and family have patiently awaited your baby’s birth, and this is the perfect time to give them a glimpse of your babe by announcing their arrival via mail. I think it is such a personal and unique touch!

There are so many great birth announcements that it can be overwhelming. If you haven’t scheduled a newborn photography session yet, you can use a photo you have snapped yourself. Newborns tend to be very photogenic since they sleep most of the time. It’s easy to grab a great shot of them with your smartphone, and then you can use a website service to create a birth announcement. Here are 20 of the cutest birth announcements we love for you to choose from.

20 Birth Announcements We Love

1. Rainbow Sky

Such a stunning announcement for any baby but especially a rainbow baby. I love the gorgeous foil detail on this card, and there is a spot on the back for more photos and a personal message from your family.

2. Serene

The simplicity of this one is stunning. It allows the photo to shine on this birth announcement. You can choose from five color borders and personalize them with your child’s birth stats.

3. Colorful Stats

I adore this colorful yet modern birth announcement. The information about the baby’s birth stats frames the photo beautifully. This is a fun choice for any family to announce their newest bundle of joy.

4. Classic Arch

This design is so classy. I love the arch with the foil-pressed border, which you can personalize in various colors. This one allows the photo to truly take center stage and be the focal point.

5. Monogram Laurel

I’m saving this one for the next time I have a baby. The laurel wreath and single-letter monogram are timeless, and there is space on the back of the announcement for extra photos and a message.

6. A New Love

This sweet little announcement is full of love, and the dainty heart background is adorable. Choose from five color schemes and show off your precious new baby.

7. Passport

This multi-photo option is excellent if you can’t choose just one shot for the front of the card. I love the beautiful typography for the words. You can add your baby’s stats to personalize it and send your announcement to friends and family.

8. Siblings

This is a cute idea for a new baby with an older sibling. I love the idea of including them in the birth announcement. Snap a photo of the new sibling, and you’ll have a special announcement and keepsake.

9. Softly Scripted

This classic-looking announcement has such a pretty script. Choose your favorite shot of your newborn to create a beautiful card.

10. So Much Love Gallery

This is a perfect option if you want a foldable birth announcement. It reveals space for five more photos and information on your baby’s birth. This is great if you have a lot of photos you would like to share.

11. Botanical

Here’s a lovely option for plant parents. Full of lush greenery, this card would fit a new baby boy or girl. The back has a spot for additional photos and text.

12. She Is Here

This is another one I’m saving for my next baby. I love how the photo is the focus, and the gorgeous lettering makes it pop and is stunning.

13. Framed Tartan

Tartan is such a classic print and beautifully frames this announcement. Choose from pink, blue, or neutral beige. This would be perfect for your favorite horizontal photo of your newborn.

14. Double the Joy

Double the joy with this birth announcement for twins. There is space for three photos, enough for one of your babies to be together and separate. It’s a postcard, so you can easily add a stamp and drop it in the mail.

15. Modern Typography Postcard

I love the modern typography on this card. There’s also a boy version with space on the back for extra photos too.

16. Over the Moon

This is a fun baby announcement, and how cute is this space theme?! You can personalize it with the baby’s stats for a whimsical card to send to loved ones.

17. Floral Border

This floral border is gorgeous and sweet for any baby girl. The back of the card continues the floral print.

18. Little Cowboy

Another fun birth announcement for your little cowgirl or cowboy. I love the font choices and lasso border. It has a cactus print on the back to continue the theme.

19. Timeless

This card is simple and elegant, with the photo being the main focus. The beautiful floral design gives it a soft touch to accent the image. This card comes in three different color options.

20. Simple and Modern

This modern and minimalistic birth announcement is excellent if you don’t want all the extra fuss. The photo is the focus in the middle, and there’s an option to add your baby’s name and stats on the back.

Consider whether you want to display one main photo or multiple photos when selecting your announcement style. There’s no timeline for sending out these cards, so feel free to take however much time you need. Your loved ones will be excited to receive them regardless of when they arrive. I hope you find a card that fits your family’s personality and style beautifully. Congratulations on your newborn, and enjoy this special time!

When you’re pregnant, especially for the first time, it can be overwhelming to figure out precisely what the baby needs when they get here. As a result, you’re probably focusing most of your time and attention on purchasing and collecting items for your bundle of joy.

But don’t forget about yourself, mama! Your fourth trimester will be one of your life’s most significant transformational periods — emotionally and physically! Like a baby, you need (and deserve) a few things to help you in this stage. Here’s our list of 15 nice-to-have things you wouldn’t think to get yourself before the baby arrives.

15 Nice-to-Have Things You May Not Know You Need Before Baby

FLUFF Co Duvet and Pillows

How old are your pillows? How about your duvet? Experts say you should replace your pillows every one to two years, and you are about to spend a LOT of time in bed recovering and snuggling up with your little one.¹ Don’t you think you deserve a little extra (and clean) comfort? Fluff Co has a line of down & feather and down alternative products that bring all the comforts of a luxury hotel to your bedroom. Need we say more?

Talia di Napoli Pizza

Something you will appreciate after having a baby is quick, easy, and filling meals. Sure, you can get frozen pizza from the grocery store. It’s fine. But if you want to elevate a quick freezer meal and enjoy something special at home, check out Talia di Napoli pizza. They deliver frozen Neapolitan pizzas that are *chef’s kiss* delicious. Several packages are available, but we love The Taste of Talia pack, which contains two margheritas, two mozzarellas, two tartufinas, one four-cheese, and one artichoke pizza. If you like it, you can get regular deliveries via a subscription!

A Hatch Restore

Maybe you’ll have a magical unicorn baby who sleeps at night, but the reality is that sleep will be a bit of a struggle for at least a few months. Why not do everything possible to help yourself sleep and wake up peacefully? Hatch has models for adults (and even young children) so everyone in the house can get a good night’s sleep. You probably have a Hatch Baby Rest on your baby registry, so this is something for you!

RX Bars

Eating healthy before you have a baby can be challenging, but devoting time and attention to well-balanced meals and snacks is far more difficult after you bring home your baby. The good news is you can be prepared with easy, grab-and-go options like these RX Bars, available in many flavors, including this awesome variety pack with Chocolate Sea Salt, Coconut Chocolate, and Blueberry. This is our Editor-in-Cheif’s go-to healthy snack!

A Solid Postnatal Vitamin

You (likely) took a prenatal vitamin to prepare for pregnancy, right? And you kept taking it to provide your body with essential nutrients during pregnancy, didn’t you? After all that work, why would you leave your body hanging once the baby is born? These Ritual Postnatal Vitamins are specifically formulated to help you feel your best after the baby comes. (Read our review of Ritual Postnatal Vitamins.)

A Rolling Organizer Cart

Any experienced mom will tell you that staying organized is the name of the game when maintaining sanity during your child’s first few years. While practically any organizer will help you out, this three-tiered rolling cart is so incredibly versatile (and easily movable) that you can use it for everything from bottles to diapers to books and toys to nursing supplies and beyond.

An Apple Watch

Apple Watches are everywhere. But if you don’t have one already, why might you need one as a new mom now? Apart from helping you track helpful information like your daily steps, heart rate, and the weather outside, the Apple Watch enables you to stay connected to your friends and family. One of the lesser-known (but oh-so-well-loved) features on the Apple Watch we use regularly is the “find my phone” button. Nothing is worse than getting the baby all ready to go and suddenly realizing your phone is missing. With the click of one button, you can play a short sound to help you find your phone, whether you left it in the bathroom or it slipped between the couch cushions.

Athleisure

Real talk: there is no such thing as “bouncing back” after having a baby. You can go on walks with your baby, eat healthily, breastfeed, and do all the “right” things, but it takes time — and even then, your body will never be precisely the same. Enter these awesome compressive high-rise leggings from Girlfriend. They’re comfortable like regular leggings but offer the coverage and structure you need as your body transitions from pregnancy.

A Nespresso Machine

While the newborn phase is a magical time, it’s also challenging due to lack of sleep. Why not treat yourself to a better cup of coffee each morning (particularly when it’s not as easy as it used to be to run to Starbucks)? With many different machine options, any coffee beverage — from a latte to a cappuccino to an espresso macchiato — is just a few minutes away.

An Echo Dot

Few things are as handy in your home as the Amazon Echo. Want a weather report? Ask Alexa. Want to play Jeopardy because you’re bored? Ask Alexa. White noise machine? Ask Alexa. Need to tell your kids in the other room to stop screaming so that you don’t wake the baby? Ask Alexa. She is as versatile as she is helpful.

A Nice Robe (And Pajamas)

Giving birth is the perfect time to refresh your pajamas, robes, and slippers collection because you’re about to spend time “lounging” at home with your little one. We recommend you check out this luscious CozyChic robe from Nordstrom made of machine-washable microfiber. In the market for a proper pair of pajamas? These moonlight pajamas will leave you feeling relaxed but still, somehow, put together.

A Tracking Water Bottle

Whether breastfeeding or not, you may be shocked to find out how much water your body needs after having a baby. A refillable water bottle that helps you track your intake will be beneficial!

A Little Extra Love for Your Body

Delivering a baby may very well be one of the most difficult things you will ever physically experience in your life. So why not pamper yourself a little bit after the big event? We love this Not Your Mother’s Dry Shampoo set for a quick clean-up on the days you don’t have time to shower, this Don’t Despair, Repair! Hair Mask by Briogeo for days you have time to shower, and this luxurious Fresh Rose and Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Moisturizer every chance you get!

An Audible Subscription

Listen, we all like to believe our baby will be a perfect, angel-face, good sleeper. Unfortunately, most of us are wrong. Very wrong. There will be lots and lots of swaying and rocking and midnight feedings. You may as well pass the time by listening to a good book!

A Heated Coffee Mug

Remember that Nespresso we told you to get? It won’t do much good if your coffee is constantly going cold (and it will). Save yourself a million trips to the microwave by getting one of these heated coffee mugs. Never guzzle lukewarm coffee again!

Having your precious baby is an exciting time. It changes a lot of things in your life. Having these products on hand will help ease the transition into motherhood. Who couldn’t use a little help with that?

You’ve prepared and prepared. After reading countless articles, you’ve picked everything you might have needed and thrown it all on your baby registry for everyone to spoil your baby at your baby shower. We’re always so concerned about the must-haves for newborn life, but have you ever thought of the must-have new mom essentials?

We often leave ourselves out of the equation, but now we need the most love and support. Instead of ensuring only your baby’s needs, feel free to add a few of these mom essentials to your baby registry or your list of things you’ll need for yourself!

Over the years, I’ve been around a lot of breast pumps. I’ve assembled them, sterilized them, used them personally when I had my son, and I’ve helped mothers learn how to use them. Pumping is a common topic that I cover with my clients as a postpartum doula. And having helped hundreds of families with their newborns, I know which pumps are the best breast pumps. But before you go deciding on which is the best breast pump for you, it’s important to understand the different types of breast pumps and know what to look for.

Types of Breast Pumps

There are four different types of breast pumps:

1. Manual breast pumps:

These breast pumps are operated by hand.

• Pros:
  • They are lightweight, small, portable, and easy to store.
  • They are great because you can use them to pump anytime and anywhere.
  • They are also inexpensive.
• Cons:
  • With manual breast pumps, you will be doing all of the work. They have a lever pump or bulb suction for you press together and squeeze repeatedly to extract your breastmilk.
  • This can be tiring for you and your hands, so you may not get as much milk as you would with an electric breast pump.

If you plan on pumping regularly for your little one, I wouldn’t recommend this style of a breast pump for you. A manual breast pump is a good option for occasional pumping sessions, especially when on the go.

2. Battery-operated breast pumps:

These breast pumps are similar to electric breast pumps because they do the pumping for you, however, they use a battery that you either need to charge or continue to purchase to operate.

• Pros:
  • A battery-operated breast pump is great for mothers who need their pump to be portable.
  • They are used and recommended by mothers who have to travel or commute a lot for work.
  • They are great because you don’t have to do the manual pumping yourself and you also don’t have to be tethered to an electrical outlet for pumping sessions.
  • Battery-operated breast pumps are usually small, portable, and fairly easy to use.
• Cons:
  • Some battery-operated pumps have a bad reputation for their batteries wearing down quickly.
  • They are recommended if you only believe you’ll pump occasionally or once a day since their battery life might not last long.
  • Because they are operated by batteries, they are typically not as strong as an electric breast pump that plugs in.
  • They’re not recommended for mothers who plan on regularly or exclusively pumping their breastmilk because they do not stimulate milk production enough to build a healthy milk supply. This is why it is still recommended to put your baby to the breast for most feedings.
  • They need to be recharged or have their batteries replaced, which can be time-consuming and costly. If your pump requires replacement batteries, you’ll need to keep some on hand wherever you are.

A battery-operated pump is a good option for mothers who only need to pump occasionally (once a day or less) and who do not want to manually pump their breast milk.

3. Single-electric breast pumps:

A single electric breast pump is a pump that you can plug into a power source to operate and express your breastmilk one breast at a time without doing it manually.

• Pros:
  • Electric pumps are stronger and can get more milk with minimal effort.
  • They are powerful so they can be used to help establish, maintain, and increase your milk supply.
  • They are less expensive than double-electric breast pumps.
• Cons:
  • You can only pump one breast at a time so it doubles the amount of time to pump.
  • They are larger than manual or battery-operated pumps.
  • They require you to be near a power source for every pumping session.

If you need to pump often or exclusively pump for your child, an electric pump is a great option.

4. Double-electric breast pumps:

Double electric breast pumps are very popular because they are powerful and they allow you to pump both breasts at once without having to do it manually.

• Pros:
  • This is an efficient option because you can pump both breasts at once which can save you a lot of time.
  • Electric pumps are stronger and can get more milk with minimal effort.
  • They are powerful so they can be used to help establish, maintain, and increase your milk supply.
• Cons:
  • Double-electric pumps are larger than a manual or battery-operated pumps.
  • They require you to be near a power source for every pumping session.
  • These are typically the most expensive options.

If you need to pump frequently or exclusively, this is the type of pump that is recommended for you.

Closed-System vs. Open-System: What’s the Difference

People don’t normally notice these terms when they first start looking at breast pumps. Once they have decided on the type of breast pump they need, they start looking at the features. These are important terms to know and understand when looking at the features before you make your breast pump selection.

Closed-system pump: A closed-system breast pump has a barrier that does not allow your breast milk to come in contact with the pump’s tubing. This means that your milk goes straight from your breast to the bottle. This is a good thing because it is considered the most hygienic. It can also be very difficult to clean and sterilize the tubes with milk inside them. They are also called “overflow protection.”

Open-system pump: An open-system breast pump doesn’t have a barrier between the milk and the pump. Your breast milk flows through the tubing and other small pieces into the bottle. If the pumping kit and tubing are not cleaned and dried properly it can create an issue. Water or your breast milk can potentially get into the pump and break the motor. Open-system pumps are usually less expensive than closed-system breast pumps.

What to Look For

When researching the best breast pumps, some other things you might want to consider before making your selection are:

Weight:

How much does the pump weigh? If you know that you’ll have to commute or travel a lot for work, you’ll want to consider what you’ll be bringing with you since you’ll have to pump every so many hours. A lightweight pump would be recommended.

Portability:

Is it easy to transport and store away? How many pump parts are there and are they all together bulky? Also, will you need to pump in the car or on a plane, etc.? A battery-operated pump might be the best breast pump for you if you can’t be near a power source. Just be sure to check how long the battery-operated pump lasts on a single charge and if it comes with a rechargeable battery or standard batteries. Another good thing to check is if the pump has a DC power adapter so that it can be charged and used in a vehicle.

Sound:

Are you going to be around other people during your pumping sessions? Do you want to pump discretely? Some breast pump motors are quieter than others so look for a pump that has a quiet motor.

Strength of suction:

Do you already know that you have a slow letdown reflex? Do you need help getting your breast milk to flow? Or maybe need help fully emptying your breasts? Do you want your pumping sessions to be faster? If so, you should look for a pump with stronger suction.

Customization:

For comfort, having the ability to customize the settings on the pump, like the suction strength and speed, is a very nice feature. The more you can mimic your baby’s feeding style, the easier your pumping sessions will be.

What’s included:

Look to see if there are any other pump parts that you need to purchase in addition to the breast pump. Or do they all come together in a kit?

Wearable:

Do you prefer to not have any tubing or bottles and be completely hands-free when pumping? Do you have a big family and need to save on time. Then a wearable pump might be the best breast pump for you.

Insurance:

Look to see which breast pumps will be covered by your health insurance policy. As of late 2012, private health insurers in the United States must cover breast pumps under the Affordable Care Act.

Cost:

It is recommended to use your insurance to get your breast pump. But maybe you need a second one for the office. Research which breast pump serves the purposes that are most important to your lifestyle that, and that also fits within your budget.

Warranty:

Unfortunately, breast pumps are non-returnable. However, all breast pumps come with a warranty through their manufacturer. Look to see if the warranty differs for the pump motor and the pump parts.

Here are our Chick Picks, the best breast pumps on the market right now.

Best Breast Pumps

Spectra S2

The Spectra S2 is a hospital-grade, double electric breast pump that weighs just under three pounds. It has 12 different suction levels for you to choose from to customize your pumping sessions including a massage mode, letdown mode, and expression mode. This customization helps you mimic your baby’s feeding style. I love that it has an automatic timer to help tired mothers pump for only the amount of time required. The motor is also much quieter than other pumps on the market which every mother can appreciate. It also has a night light. These two things make nighttime pumping easier on mom and won’t wake up the baby.

The Spectra S2 has a closed-pump system and all the parts that come into contact with breast milk are BPA/DEHP free. If you’re wondering what the difference is between the Spectra S1 and S2; the S2 is the pink model and the S2 must be plugged into a power source to operate.

Motif Luna

We recently did a full review of the Motif Luna and we absolutely love it! It’s very lightweight (weighing only two pounds), it has an extremely quiet motor so you don’t have an obnoxious sound to listen to when you pump, the screen is easy to read day or night, it has a timer, and I love that it can be plugged in or battery-operated. It’s a great option if you have to regularly pump but also have to travel or commute for work. One of the biggest reasons why it’s so popular, five out of six moms say they’re able to pump more milk in less time with the Motif Luna. Who doesn’t want to save time?!

It is a double electric pump with a closed system. It’s easy to use and has strong, but comfortable, suction.

Medela Freestyle

If you love the Medela Pump in Style but are looking for something even more portable because you’re a mom on the move, then the Medela Freestyle Flex is for you. It’s a double-electric, battery-powered pump that weighs less than one pound! Very impressive. It is one of the smallest and lightest breast pumps on the market. This pump can easily fit into your pocket, purse, or diaper bag, no problem. The rechargeable battery lasts about two hours, however, the suction decreases when the battery is low. It’s not as strong as the hospital-grade pumps and is not as quiet as the previous pumps listed. However, it gets the job done when you don’t want to manually pump your breast milk and don’t want to bring a large pump with you either.

The Medela Freestyle Flex is a closed-system pump that comes with Bluetooth connectivity to its MyMedela app as well as a USB charging cable. It has a backlit digital display, a timer, and it includes a memory feature to save your favorite expression suction patters.

Willow

For moms who don’t want to worry about tubes, wires, or bottles and who prefer to pump hands-free, the wearable Willow Pump is a great option. It’s quiet and discreet so you can pump anywhere without being obvious at home or in public. All you have to do is insert them into your nursing bra and wear them under your shirt to pump.

I got to test the Willow pump out and I found it super convenient. At first, it can be a little confusing to get the right latch which is essential for a successful pumping session. However, their customer service is impeccable and helps you over the phone should you have any difficulties or questions. It also has no-spill technology and allows you to pump and store your milk in the same bag. This is great because it’s fewer steps for mom to do!

This double electric, battery-powered pump has a corresponding app that controls the suction (seven different levels) and keeps track of milk volume, pumping time, and previous pumping sessions. You can easily change the settings all on your phone. The battery also lasts all day.

Unfortunately, the Willow breast pump only works with breast cup sizes A-H. Also, because of the size of the Willow cups, the storage bags are only able to hold a smaller amount of breast milk than other pump containers. If you are a big milk producer, you may have to switch storage bags mid-pumping session. As for the price, it is more expensive. However, a portion of the fee may be covered by your insurance. An upgrade fee might be required depending on your insurance. But if your insurance doesn’t cover this pump, it is eligible for reimbursement under FSA/HSA. Also, the storage bags are also more expensive than standard breastmilk bags, and you can’t transfer milk from one bag to another nor can you reseal them.

Medela Symphony

This double-electric, hospital-grade breast pump has been the gold standard of breast pumps for years. It’s the Bentley of breast pumps with a hefty price tag, but don’t worry! You can easily rent the Medela Symphony at your local hospital monthly to avoid the purchase price.

This pump has amazing suction that mimics a baby’s actual nursing pattern, it has great longevity, and its a well-sealed closed system pump. This is why hospitals feel comfortable renting them out to multiple mothers. I recommend this pump to mothers who have to pump exclusively, have trouble with milk supply, and to mothers who are trying to establish their breast milk for an adopted baby. It has a two-phase suction system that’s helped thousands of women achieve faster letdown and faster milk flow. I also like that it’s easy to clean and has a special system to prevent milk overflow.

Things that mothers need to know about the Medela Symphony is that you will have to purchase a pumping kit for the pumping parts (like tubing and bottles). The breast pump machine comes alone. Also, it’s large and heavier so it’s not the most portable and it requires to be plugged in while in use.

Haakaa

Buy Here

The Haakaa Silicone Pump is an affordable, one-piece manual pump that’s perfect for moms who need help starting a milk flow. There are so many things that I love about this pump:

• It doesn’t require hand pumping. All you need is to squeeze the pump and get a good suction to allow the natural letdown process flow.
• It’s wireless, tubeless, one-piece, and does not require a battery or power outlet.
• It’s affordable, lightweight, easy to carry, and store. (Perfect for travel.)
• Easy to clean and made from 100% food-grade silicone.
• It helps relieve engorgement when trying to reduce breast fullness or tenderness between feedings.
• It can collect milk that would otherwise go to waste: attach the Haakaa to the opposite breast that baby is nursing on to catch and save your let down milk. Amazing!

This breast pump is beneficial to every mother who is breastfeeding or pumping. I highly recommend it! And a suggestion, purchase the storage cover and suction base to avoid spilling or knocking over the Haakaa after pumping. You’ll be glad you did!

Final Thoughts

There’s a breast pump for every mother and every situation. What works for one mom might not work for another. Think about how often you will need to pump as well as how and where you will be using your breast pump. If it’s going to be more frequent, then a higher price tag double-electric breast pump might be the best breast pump for you. Think about the key factors that are essential for you and your situation and the right one will become more clear.

Whenever someone has a new baby, people love to celebrate them by bringing gifts. While stuffed animals and balloons are a sweet gesture, here are my favorite gifts to bring to a new family in the hospital that are a little more outside the box.

Best Gifts to Bring a New Family in the Hospital

Food

While food may not seem like a great gift for a new family, trust me, for a new mom, it is! After bringing a baby into this world and possibly not being allowed to eat for hours before that, new moms are hungry. I remember looking at the hospital menu with pure joy thinking I could and should eat anything I wanted.

Plus, her partner may not have had time to eat either and will appreciate the food too. My husband only had enough time to grab a few vending machine snacks. Most partners don’t pack a hospital bag, but maybe more of them should. After all, they might not have been in labor, but they will likely be at the hospital for the same amount of time as the mother.

Some good ideas are nuts, trail mix, cheese sticks, fruit, cookies, or something delicious like homemade zucchini bread!

Matching PJs

The first few days or weeks after having a baby, a new family usually wants to take it easy. So make this time extra cozy for them by bringing sweet matching PJ’s the whole family can wear as they learn about each other and (hopefully) get some rest. You might want to get the mom a nightdress/robe outfit instead of pants if possible. These would be easier to use at the hospital and even back home for a while.

Plus, if the family plans to get some newborn photography done, they can wear the PJs for a photo or two!

Gift Cards

While bringing a home-cooked meal during the first few weeks is always welcome, a nice gesture is to bring a few gift cards to the hospital. They are small to carry home, and the family can use them when necessary. You might want to ask what their favorite restaurants are first or bring gift cards that they can use for food delivery.

If you’re more tech-savvy, you may just want to send them UberEats or Doordash credits that they can use to order just about any food they might be craving.

A Postpartum Recovery Kit

While this gift may not be as pretty as a vase of flowers, a new mom will be so grateful for it once she gets home. It can include practical items like large pads and painkillers, and also pretty socks, and a fresh-smelling candle. Here are some things to consider adding to your postpartum recovery kit and some other great recovery options if she had a C-section.

Flowers

Yes, flowers are pretty standard, but we still love them! You can help brighten their hospital room with a pretty bouquet they can take home with them. There is something about looking at a bouquet of flowers and feeling loved. You can either pick them up on your way over or buy a bouquet at the hospital gift shop on the way up to their room.

Your Photography Skills

If you’re a professional photographer, or just good at taking pictures, most new families would love to have those first few hours or days documented. This is a really sweet gift to bestow on a new family whose memory might be fuzzy thinking back to those first days but can remember them better with a couple of sweet pictures.

Just give mom a heads up first to see if she feels up for it. If she doesn’t feel well enough to do it at the hospital, you can always offer it for a few weeks later in the comfort of their own home.

Your Company

While a new family might need time to rest in the hospital, chances are they will love to see you if you are close to them. Just your support and care in coming to see them at the hospital says a lot.

As soon as my parents heard I was in labor, they began driving the eight hours to reach me the same day. My in-laws and a few friends from church stopped by as well. While the visits themselves can be sweet, they can also relieve dad of his duties for a bit if he needs to stretch his legs or run home to grab more clothes.

Just be sure to ask mom and dad if they want visitors because not everyone wants visitors at the hospital. And also, learn what to do and NOT to do when visiting a new baby.

What gifts did people bring you as a new family in the hospital? What gifts have you taken to other new moms and dads?

Whether you plan on breastfeeding your baby exclusively or giving your baby a bottle from the beginning, we recommend every family to have a few baby bottles on hand when they welcome home their newborn. Some of the reasons are: that breastfeeding can be difficult. Sometimes it doesn’t go as planned. Or your child might have a milk allergy, and supplementing with formula might need to become an option. And the most common reason a breastfeeding baby may need to take a bottle is that sometimes mom may have to be away from her child before baby’s next feeding. Or mom might want her partner to help with feeding.

Because newborns typically eat every 2-4 hours, pumping allows mothers to build up an emergency freezer stash of breast milk if she ever needs a little break or has to be away before baby’s next feeding. But not all breastfed babies have the easiest time accepting a baby bottle when they’ve been breastfed. This is why it’s helpful to have bottles that have been successful with breastfed babies.

Do certain bottles really make a difference?

Yes and no. As a postpartum doula who has worked with hundreds of families, I’ve found that it really comes down to your baby and their specific needs and preferences. Some babies will accept the first bottle you give them. Others will be very picky and will down-right refuse the bottle until you give them one that they deem acceptable. But since there are tons of different bottles on the market, there are certain things that you can do with your baby and look for in a bottle to have success. Finding the best bottles for breastfed babies can help that transition and make it easier for you and baby. This way, we hope to spare you from buying and trying 12 different baby bottles before finding the right one for your baby.

When to Offer Your Baby a Bottle

When is the right time to introduce a bottle to your breastfed baby, you ask? Most lactation consultants recommend waiting until breastfeeding is well established and baby is 4-6 weeks old. However, I’ve experienced some infants refusing the bottle at 6 weeks old. This is why I suggest offering baby a bottle between 2-4 weeks old.

How and How Often Should You Offer Your Baby a Bottle

Only offer your baby a bottle 3-4 times a week and no more than once a day. Keeping it familiar but not too frequent should keep baby comfortable with the artificial nipple while also maintaining a strong breastfeeding relationship. Offering a bottle more frequently can cause your baby to prefer the bottle over the breast. If this happens, offer the bottle less frequently until breastfeeding is back on track.

When offering the bottle to your breastfed baby, you should practice paced bottle feeding. This helps the parent mimic the flow and rhythm of breastfeeding.

What to Look for When Choosing a Bottle for Your Breastfed Baby

Whether you’re browsing online or through the aisles at a store, there are several things that you should look at before making your baby bottle selection. The most successful bottles for breastfed babies have some key features.

The Bottle Shape

Some babies will want a bottle that feels familiar to the breast. Because of this, a wide-neck bottle or a breast-like shaped bottle can be helpful with this transition since it is ergonomically similar to the breast.

The Nipple Type

If you look at the different bottle nipples, you will notice different sizes and shapes. The nipples that are most similar to mom’s nipples are what we encourage you to try first. This will increase the chances of baby not refusing the breast or the bottle when switching back and forth. We suggest trying a wide-neck nipple base since that most closely resembles a mother’s breast.

The Venting

Good venting is important in a baby bottle because it reduces the amount of air a baby swallows. The less air that goes inside baby’s tummy, the better. When they swallow too much air, it can cause gas pains and increase colic.

Best Baby Bottles for Breastfed Babies

After testing and reviewing many baby bottles with many different babies, these are the best baby bottles for breastfed babies.

Comotomo

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The Comotomo bottles have been a favorite of parents and babies for years. They were specifically designed for babies who switch from breast to bottle. There are several things about this bottle that make it a great choice for breastfed babies. It’s made of 100% soft silicone, making it soft and much more flexible like the breast. It also has a wide base and large silicone nipple, and the nipple has a slow flow. All of these features make it a good option for breastfed babies.

Parents’ thoughts: We love that there are minimal parts to the bottle and that you don’t need a bottle brush to clean it since the bottle is wide. It’s super easy and fast to clean! But because the bottle part is also silicone, the bottle easily tips over since it doesn’t have a firm base.

Dr. Brown’s Wide Neck Baby Bottle

So many parents and babies love Dr. Brown’s bottles. One of the main reasons is the superior venting system which eliminates air bubbles during feedings. Less air being ingested reduces gas, colic, and spit-up, making for happier babies and parents. The vent system also prevents vacuum pressure from building and the nipple from collapsing.

For breastfed babies, we recommend the wide-neck bottles to resemble more of the breast. Many parents keep their baby on the level 1 silicone nipple (that comes with the bottle) for a slow flow. Some parents opt for the preemie nipples for a slower flow, which can help replicate the flow of breastfeeding.

Parents’ thoughts: There are many parts to this bottle, but the venting system makes it worth it. Many babies experienced less gas and tummy pain from this bottle, so it’s a great option!

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Baby Bottle

Tommee Tippee’s Closer to Nature’s baby bottles are inspired by what babies love most—mom. With a breast-like silicone nipple, this bottle flexes like a breast and feels more like mom. In addition, this bottle has a super-sensitive anti-colic valve that parents love. They also claim that 92% of 1,200 parents who used the Tommee Tippee nipple said that their baby accepted it within the first 3 attempts. Pretty impressive!

Parents’ thoughts: The silicone is soft but sturdy, and the curvy shape makes it easy to hold without slipping from the caregiver’s hand.

Nanobébé

Nanobébé bottles were designed with breastmilk and breastfeeding babies in mind. Their unique one-of-a-kind concave design provides significant surface area exposure to the milk. This allows the milk to spread thin across the bottle and provides quick and even warming that doesn’t destroy precious breast milk nutrients. Similarly, the shape allows for rapid cooling of the breastmilk, reducing bacterial growth. It’s a pretty cool bottle. Breastfed babies also love it because of its short, wide, breast-like shape design and slow-flow silicone nipple.

Parents’ thoughts: We love that babies can hold onto the bottles faster, that it is easy to clean and store in the fridge, and that it protects the breastmilk during heating and cooling. The bottom of the bottles does not screw on and off. Instead, you press down firmly and evenly to close them and ensure that the breastmilk doesn’t leak out.

Mimijumi

The Mimijumi bottle is designed with the largest mouth/nipple on the market. Their bottles are made with medical and food grade silicone and nylon, which gives the texture to feel like skin. It’s a great choice for transitioning back and forth between breastfeeding and bottle feeding. Their bottle and nipple design ensure that baby actively suckles, and that baby controls the slow flow of milk.

Parents’ thoughts: This bottle is more expensive, so you are definitely paying for the quality of the one-piece nipple design with anti-colic venting. This bottle has fewer pieces, so it’s easy to clean and prepare.

LATCH

The Munchkin Latch nipple was designed to be ultra-flexible, so it can stretch, flex, and pump just like the breast for an easy, correct, and continuous latch every time. In addition, its uniquely designed nipple (like an accordion, so it reaches to the back of your baby’s soft palate) flexes as baby’s head moves. This allows your baby to maintain a proper latch, decreases air ingestion and reduces feeding frustrations for your child.

Mom can also purchase a pumping adaptor so she can pump right into the bottle, saving on cleaning time.

Parents’ thoughts: We love how you can purchase a pumping adaptor and pump directly into the bottles. The one thing to always check is the anti-colic valve located at the bottom of the bottle. Make sure that it is always cleaned thoroughly before its next use.

Playtex Nurser Bottle with Drop-Ins Liners

A wonderful and affordable option, the Playtex Nurser with Drop-Ins bottles, do a great job mimicking the breast. The unique liners work similarly to breastfeeding because they contract during feeding, giving a more natural, air-free feeding for baby. In addition, the Playtex nipples are wide, soft, and have a raised texture to help with a better latch. There are also different sizes and styles of nipples available to help your little one latch easier.

Parents’ thoughts: Many parents swear by this bottle and say that it helps tremendously with gassy babies. The Playtex pre-sterilized liners are also easy to replace and guarantee a clean bottle every time, which is convenient for parents. But if you are concerned about the waste you’re creating by using liners, this might not be the best option for you. However, their liners are 100% recyclable.

NUK Simply Natural

Designed to mimic the fit, flow, and movement of mom as closely as possible, the NUK Simply Natural is the only bottle with up to nine nipple holes, just like mom. Their bottles feature a soft nipple that is similar to the shape of mom’s breast while breastfeeding. The scooped nipple cavity allows space for baby’s tongue and jaw to move naturally and control the flow, just like they do when breastfeeding. A great option that parents love!

Parents’ thoughts: This bottle is easy to clean, has minimal parts, is easy to hold, has a good slow flow, is affordable, and many breastfed babies love it. Two thumbs up!

It was a 15-minute drive home from the hospital. But during both pregnancies, I spent days deciding what outfit would be just the right thing to introduce my daughters to the world. For many babies, the coming home outfit is the first “real” clothing they will put on. It is also likely to be shared across social media, celebrating the big moment of leaving the cocoon of the hospital and entering the real world. It makes sense then that many moms-to-be put a little extra thought and planning into the iconic outfit.

Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to. Bringing a baby home from the hospital is a joyous (albeit slightly terrifying) time for new parents. The outfit they are wearing will not make or break the experience. However, there are some key things to remember when planning your newborn’s coming home outfit. From comfort, weather, and practical advice, we share our top tips for choosing a newborn’s outfit and highlight a few of our favorites below.

Tips for Choosing Baby’s Coming Home Outfit

Whether you live just around the corner from your birth center or hospital or have a long drive ahead, most babies will be traveling home in an infant car seat. Babies should be dressed, keeping both comfort and weather in mind. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Dressing for the Weather & Warmth

Your location or time of year when giving birth may impact outfit choices. Of course, you want to ensure your baby is warm enough in the cold and keep them from overheating in warmer temperatures. However, as a rule of thumb, most new babies should be dressed with warmth in mind. Babies have more difficulty regulating their body temperature and therefore rely on us to dress them appropriately.¹

A long-sleeve footed pajama or layette set is a great choice for most newborns. A hat and socks (if not using footed pants) will help keep them warm without risking overheating. Be sure to bring a few different sizes of hats if you want one to match the outfit you pick. I’ve experienced having too large of a hat and a baby with a giant head that did not fit a newborn hat. Fortunately, I was lucky to have a second option for both. Most hospitals provide hats that would also work perfectly fine for the car ride home.

A Few Practical Tips for Dressing Your Newborn for Travel Home:

• While your focus might be on the car ride home, remember to dress your baby in something that will make life easier once you get home. Fancy is cute until you have to undress and redress a fussy or sleepy newborn.
• Frequent diaper changes mean you will have to undo snaps or deal with complicated articles of clothing continually. So make it easy on yourself and go with something simple!
• Bring two outfits (in two different sizes) in case you end up with a bigger baby. I had a 10-pounder, and she did not fit into many newborn outfits!
• A onesie might work fine. But as a new mom, you will absolutely notice and cringe at the car seat straps touching their sensitive little skin, so a light pair of pants or leggings might be a helpful addition.
• When looking for material, go for something soft and not scratchy, like cotton or bamboo.
• Pro Mom Tip: Go for footed pants instead of pants and socks. They are much easier to use, stay on, and keep track of!

My personal preference is an adorable long-sleeved footed onesie (or footie pajamas as they are often called). This provides just enough coverage on the skin to protect against sun, wind, or chill while being light enough to help them remain comfortable (or as comfortable as you can be as a 1-3 day-old baby strapped into a bucket seat). In addition, they are easy to change diapers in and can transition from car seat to arms to bassinet without issue.

25 Adorable Coming Home Outfits for Baby

With all of that said, here are our picks for the most adorable outfits for bringing baby home:

Preemie Favorites

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You can take the stress out of dressing your baby with these adorable kimono short-sleeved onesies. Nothing has to go over their head with these onesies, and the materials are GOTS certified (95% organic cotton + 5% spandex). Perfect for your preemie!

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Gowns are a personal favorite of mine for the newborn stage. The ease of changing a diaper in them is unmatched. In addition, I love the beautiful colors and prints of these gowns!

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A darling three-piece set that keeps baby warm and offers easy access for changing! Feet are built into the pants, which means no need for socks that will likely fall off anyway!

Make a Welcoming Statement

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Outfits or hats with cute sayings like “Hello World” or “I’m new here” make for a cute and timely photo opp. Both Amazon and Etsy have many great choices for both boys and girls. This New To The Crew set has just the right amount of attitude for bringing home your new little boy. And this baseball-themed “Take Me Home” outfit is a home run for the big day.

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This adorable set is the picture-perfect way to announce your baby’s arrival and name! I love the matching bow and option of pants or bloomers!

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Personalized onesies are also a special way to announce your baby and their name to the world and make for a great keepsake later on. 🙂

Sibling Set

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Nothing is cuter than a doting Big Brother or Big Sister with a newborn sibling. Older siblings can share their excitement for and match their new best friend with these adorable Coming Home shirts available from Etsy.

Still, another option would be to have your newest addition wear the same outfit as a sibling or family member. It is both meaningful and fun to compare photos after the fact. For example, my oldest, Charlie, wore the same hat her older cousin wore as an infant, and it gave my sister and me all the feels when looking through pictures.

Gender Neutral

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This waffle set is comfortable and stylish enough for either gender! It comes in multiple colors that you can choose from.

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We also love these adorable neutral options that include either a hat or a bow. This way, you are equipped no matter what gender you have. 😉

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And we don’t want to forget sweet options for rainbow babies and babies born at home. 🙂

Classically Sweet

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With dainty flowers for a little princess, this sweet-footed set is a parent favorite on Amazon with over 1,200 reviews.

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A precious girl option with a matching hat! The rose print is so sweet for a new baby.

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This superstar set is perfect for your new baby boy and comes with a matching hat, bib, and tulle bag.

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Despite what you may think, babies DO NOT need a jacket on in the car. It’s also not recommended as part of car seat safety guidelines. However, Faux Jackets sets like this one from Little Me would be adorable as a going-home outfit. It shows she is ready to hit the road with the cropped cardigan design.

Warm/Cold Weather Winners

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This outfit is the type of classic look you could keep and pass down to future generations! Timeless style and lightweight material to keep baby cool in warmer weather.

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Are you having a baby in the winter? They will be winter-ready in this cable knit sweater romper. The pristine white is ideal for both boys and girls (though watch out for those early diapers, this might be tricky to get stains out!)

Do you need a special going-home outfit for a baby? No, of course not. But they do need to be wearing something. And it is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion as that baby (or babies) transitions to life at home with the family. So have as much fun as you want in selecting the perfect one!

On a budget? These outfits can certainly be worn again. Even selecting a favorite outfit from baby shower gifts is one way to make the day memorable without incurring additional costs. It is one decision in those first few weeks that can be simple, unlike many of the rest!

New babies bring such joy not only to their parents but to all of the family and friends who know them. We all want to give gifts to welcome the new little one and express joy at their arrival. None of us want to give an unwanted or unnecessary gift, but sometimes it’s hard to know what to buy! So, I pulled together this list of the best baby gifts for newborns with a little help from some new parents! This is also a great resource for a new parent needing some ideas for what to include on your baby registry.

And, just for fun, we added a few bonus suggestions for ideas of gifts to give the parents of the newborn! Because whether they know it or not, they’ll need a few things too!

Best Baby Gifts for Newborns

Muslin Swaddling Cloths/Blankets

Hannah Stewart, a mom of four in central Texas, highly recommends muslin swaddling cloths. “You will have to learn how to swaddle a baby, but you will love these blankets,” she says. They can be used as car seat covers, nursing covers, or floor blankets. The brand that Hannah recommends is SwaddleDesigns Blankets, which can be found on Amazon. Amber Murphy, mom of 11-month-old Parker, also loves her daughter’s Copper Pearl swaddle blanket, which they still use. She loves that it is lightweight and so big that it keeps growing with her baby. We also love the Butterfly Swaddle, which is both a swaddle and transitional sleep sack.

Ring Slings

Lizzie Bass, a mom of two in North Carolina, can’t speak highly enough of her ring sling. She says it has been great for babywearing with her second baby because it’s “comfy but not too hot like the stretchy wrap I tried when my first child was a newborn.” Lizzie has the Wildbird brand ring sling, but many other brands are out there. Ring slings come in various fabrics at different price points and are suitable for babies and toddlers from 8-35 pounds.

Magnetic Me Bodysuits

Magnetic Me bodysuits also get two thumbs up from Hannah. She says, “The best baby clothes gift has to be the magnetic bodysuits! These made for quick diaper changes and were great for layering baby. Super convenient because there’s no messing with snaps or zippers.”

Halo SleepSacks

Another Texas mom says that Halo SleepSacks worked great for her first child and will use them for her second little one. Sleep-sacks keep your baby warm without blankets, eliminating the risk and worry of your baby getting tangled while sleeping. And this one comes in multiple designs and colors!

Itzy Ritzy Pacifiers

Pacifiers also make great gifts! We recommend these Itzy Ritzy pacifiers because they have large vents, which help with a baby’s breathability. They’re soft and comfortable for little ones yet durable enough for them to use as their teeth start to come in. We also like that this pacifier has a collapsible handle, which is helpful for a newborn’s safety!

Lovevery Play Gym

Playmats and baby gyms are perfect for engaging small children and helping them learn. The Play Gym by Lovevery is awesome because babies can use it from the newborn to toddler stage. While it’s a little pricey, many parents say it’s worth it, and the new parents in your life will surely appreciate the gift!

Baby Kits

New parents will appreciate a baby kit because it comes with many essentials they might not even know they need! This Fridababy Baby Basics Kit has neat tools to help clear stuffy noses, relieve gas, and more. The Pipette Baby Essentials Kit set includes personal care items, such as baby shampoo + wash, lotion, and oil.

UGG Booties

UGG boots aren’t just for adults! Newborns look super cute (and cozy) in these Bixbie Booties. They get rave reviews, with moms saying they’re easy to take off and excellent quality. This is the perfect gift to keep babies warm during the cold winter months.

Gifts for the Parents of Newborns

Co-Sleepers

Lizzie loves the Halo BassiNest. It attaches securely to the parent’s bed and provides a safe place for a baby to sleep while still near mom. Both mom and baby get to have a good night’s sleep. Lizzie says, “I love being able to scoop baby up, nurse, and put her back to sleep without having to leave my bed!”

Hand and Foot Stamp

This fun gadget from Pearhead lets new parents make impressions of their baby’s hands and feet. And no ink ever touches the baby’s skin. You can put those cute little footprints and handprints on thank-you cards, the keepsake album, and anything you please.

Keepsake Box

This is another sentimental gift for parents! You can customize this keepsake box to display the baby’s name, birthdate, etc., for mom and dad. It’ll be a place where they can store future pictures, cards, ultrasound photos, and other keepsakes. This will be a meaningful gift they can use for years to come.

Sound Machines

I was torn about putting a sound machine on the baby or parent list. But since it helps the parents AND the baby sleep, I decided it is ultimately a parent gift! Sound machines come with various features and are available at various price points, so how do you choose which one to get? A glance online shows that many folks like and recommend The Hatch Rest. It combines a sound machine with a night light and a time-to-rise feature.

Water-Resistant Diaper Bag

Parents need a sturdy bag to help them carry diapers, extra clothes, baby bottles, and other baby essentials. This Fawn Design diaper bag will be a lifesaver because it’s water-resistant, easy to clean, and can hold many items. It’s also really stylish for a new mama to wear!

Comfortable Bath Robe

After my first child, I remember being shocked and disappointed that my postnatal body didn’t fit into my prenatal clothes, none of which would have been helpful for nursing anyway. I wish I had had a comfy, pretty robe handy like this one, which Amber says she lived in for the first month after her daughter was born. The bonus, Amber said, is that “Parker had a matching swaddle blanket and bow, so we both looked cute too.”

Well, there you have it: the best baby gifts for newborns! The items detailed in this article are all recommended by real moms. When you create your gift wish list, a great guide is to ask for things that will make the baby happy and comfortable. And it never hurts to ask for gifts that make life easier for you as a parent! Good luck, and congratulations on your new little one!

As soon as a woman welcomes a baby into the world, [often] her family and others around her become focused on the baby. As a result, the mother can sometimes somewhat be forgotten. If you want to congratulate her and show her that she is not forgotten, here are the best gifts for a new mom. Any of these gifts will show her that you thought of her and that she is cared for. And we promise you that these items will be used and loved.

Cozy Slippers

Women love a good pair of cozy slippers to wear around the house. You won’t be leaving the house very often when you are a new mother. And when you do get off the couch, it’s nice to have some comfortable slippers to wear. I love these two options. The first is open-toe, so it’s great for the winter or summer. And the other option is microwavable heated slippers. You read that right! I love that they are filled with dried French lavender and all-natural grain. They are so great that they were even featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things List for 2019!

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Quality Water Bottle

A new mommy needs to stay hydrated! A good water bottle that will remind her to sip throughout the day will help her body, help her milk supply, and overall help her feel better.

Coffee Mug

There’s very little sleep going on when you have a newborn. This is why moms are usually making or warming up a cup of coffee. With this coffee cup, she will never have to reheat her coffee again.

Coffee Maker

And if she needs another convenient place to make a cup of coffee, this mini Keurig is perfect.

It’s a life-saving machine for any new mom who doesn’t have time to brew coffee (read: every new mom).

New Mom Gift Basket

Here are two great options if a gift basket is more your style. One is filled with cute things for mom and baby, and the other is filled with useful items perfect for her postpartum recovery.

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Leggings

Leggings are essential for any mom. Moms live in them because they cover us at all times, no matter what awkward position we get into when wrangling the kids, and they are perfect for the changing postpartum body. No matter what, they move and mold to our body’s shape, which is exactly what a woman needs when recovering from birth. This is where functionality meets comfort, and these postpartum leggings are a mom favorite.

Essential Oil Diffuser

Smelling certain scents can give someone energy, help them sleep, help with nausea, and so much more. A diffuser is a wonderful gift because it can set the tone in a room and give that person comfort and a feeling of peace.

Bath Salts

Give the gift of relaxation. Whenever the new mom can hand off the baby to her partner and get some much-deserved R&R, she can add these bath salts to her bath and soak in luxury.

Weighted Sleep Mask

New moms need to get sleep whenever they can. Sometimes that requires napping throughout the day. If the light from the windows is not allowing her to sleep well, this weighted sleep mask will do the trick. It’s basically like a hug for your head. It even has one side for cooling and the other side for warmth. So cool!

Baby Carrier

I love a good baby carrier. Babies always want to be kept close, and the best way to do that and still get things done around the house is babywearing. One of my favorite baby carriers is the ring sling from Wildbird. It can be used with your infant and can grow with them into toddlerhood. This is an amazing gift to give.

Silicone Breast Pump

Every drop counts! The new mom will thank you repeatedly when she realizes she no longer has to use an electric breast pump because she is catching so much milk with this silicone breast pump. This is the gift that every breastfeeding mom will love.

Postpartum Feminine Care Products

A lot happens to a woman’s body after childbirth. This may not be the sexiest gift, but it is something that she will need, and she might not even know it. These feminine care products are super gentle and perfect for helping her stay clean and fresh, especially if she isn’t finding time to hop in the shower.

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Journal

The moments of newborn snuggles, baby smiles, and chubby thighs won’t last forever. So help her savor these memories by giving her a keepsake baby book journal. It will be a gift she will treasure forever.

Jewelry

What mother doesn’t love a nice piece of jewelry? And this dainty 14K solid gold chain with customization options is a beautiful gift for a new mom. Select up to three initials or characters to truly make this layering piece her own.

Neck Massager

You would never know how much strain and pain holding a newborn baby all day long could put on your upper back and shoulders. But, more than likely, a new mom’s partner will not have the energy to give her a good daily shoulder rub, so this neck massager is the next best thing!

AirPods

If she wants to listen to a podcast or some relaxing music and not wake up the baby, these AirPods are the best. Who wants to get tangled up in cords when you have to tend to a baby?

Concealer

Need I say more? . . . A new mom can seriously not get enough of under-eye concealer. This magical stick will make her look like she’s back from the dead!

Comfy Cardigan

Whether she is cozying up on the couch or leaving the house with the newborn, a comfy cardigan is always a great gift. I particularly love it because it will keep the new mom warm, comfortable, and covered and can also be used as a nursing cover!

Mom’s One Line a Day

This one-line-a-day memory book is an excellent alternative if a journal is too daunting. Each day has a few lines for the new mom to jot down a few thoughts, memories, or milestones baby achieved that day. This gift makes journaling easy. It’s a special gift to give a new mom.

Instant Pot Duo & Cookbook

Cooking is the last thing a new mom wants to do. So an awesome gift to give a new mom is an Instant Pot because it lets her drop in a frozen chicken breast and a jar of salsa, press a few buttons, and walk away. In no time, a delicious meal will be ready! This really takes the pressure off when it comes to dinner time. I also recommend pairing her new Instant Pot with this cookbook full of 75 easy recipes.

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If you want to show your love to a new mom and let her know that you are thinking about her, these gifts will make her feel loved.

Quotebook Journal

The Quotebook Journal is the perfect keepsake quotable journal for all of the amazing things that are said in your family! With Quotebook, you record the moments that matter to you, and relive them when you want a laugh or when times get tough as a reminder to live, love and celebrate the small stuff.