Unexpected Essentials New Moms Swear By (And Why You Should Gift It)

When it comes to baby shower essentials, we can confidently say we’ve seen it all. We know the must-haves every expecting parent will appreciate. From big-ticket items such as cribs, strollers, and car seats, to the small yet mighty necessities like washcloths, swaddles, and lampin, we’ve surely received and gifted our fair share of these items.

But beyond these “expected” baby shower gifts, what other items are truly useful and helpful for parents right after welcoming their baby? Here are some recommendations from the Smart Parenting team and the Smart Parenting Village—our 100,000+ strong parenting community.

Must-Have Items Not Typically Included in the Baby Shower List

Infinity Shawl/Scarf

An infinity shawl/scarf was one of my must-haves when I gave birth to my second daughter. She was born a month early and had to stay in the NICU for two weeks. During that time, I spent hours in the hospital hallways, ready for breastfeeding and kangaroo-care sessions. The shawl served as my versatile cover-up and blanket, giving me privacy during breastfeeding and skin-to-skin sessions, while also doubling as a blanket for those nights I slept on the NICU couch. I prefer these over regular breastfeeding covers since they can easily be worn around the neck or shoulders as part of an outfit after use.

Portable bidet

In an ideal world, every public restroom would have a bidet. But until then, portable bidets are a game changer. These are essentially bottles with an automatic or manual spray head, allowing users to clean themselves efficiently and comfortably. They’re especially helpful for moms still experiencing lochia (postpartum bleeding) and can also be used to clean up babies or toddlers while out and about.

Dry shampoo

New moms often struggle to find time for self-care, such as taking a bath, amidst the demands of breastfeeding and newborn care (although we highly advocate for moms to make time for themselves too!). For a quick refresh, dry shampoo comes highly recommended. It’s an easy solution to eliminate oily hair in between washes.

No-Rinse Body Wash

Another quick way for new moms to feel clean is by using a no-rinse body wash. This is especially handy for those busy moments when a full bath isn’t feasible. It’s gentle enough to be shared with newborns, making it ideal for cleaning babies when rinsing isn’t an option.

Perineal spray/wash

Perineal spray or wash is usually recommended for new moms as they provide a cooling sensation that helps relieve swelling or pain common after childbirth. These sprays can also speed up the healing process for tears, swelling, or bruising. 

Gadget charger cord

For new moms, staying connected via social media or streaming platforms is often a welcome escape during maternity leave. A fast, long gadget cord ensures their devices stay powered no matter where they are with the baby, making it a must-have.

Nursing pillow

Moms today are fortunate to have access to tools designed to make parenting easier. One such invention is the nursing pillow, which makes breastfeeding more comfortable and pain-free. It also ensures that babies are safely supported during every feeding session.

Mini rechargeable fan

A mini rechargeable fan can be a lifesaver for new moms, especially in warmer climates. It helps both mom and baby stay cool anytime, anywhere, making it an indispensable item for our often-hot weather.

Night light or lamp

Caring for a newborn is a 24/7 job, and navigating the dark during late-night feedings or diaper changes can be challenging. A night light or lamp with a soft glow can make nighttime tasks easier without disrupting the baby’s sleep.

Read here why a baby registry is worth it.