How to Create a Gift Basket for a First Time Mom

Coming home with a firstborn is an exhilarating event for first time moms. Realizing she might not have all of the necessities can bring the new mom’s excitement level down a few notches. By creating a gift basket filled with all of the goodies she will need, you will help ease the transition to her new role as first time mom. The steps below will guide you in creating the perfect gift basket for your friend.

Step 1: Purchase an item that will serve two purposes; first it will serve as the "basket" and second it will be an item that the expectant mom already needs. A few good examples include a Diaper Champ, an infant tub, or a diaper bag. Hopefully, you will find one of these items on the new mom’s gift registry.

Step 2: First few days’ needs: Fill the basket with items the new mom will need in order to care for the baby in the first few days home from the hospital. One item the first time mom doesn’t always realize she needs is alcohol and cotton swabs for caring for the umbilical cord. If the baby is a boy who has been circumcised, the new mom will also need Vaseline. Small washcloths and scent free bath soap will come in handy for those first baths at home.

Step 3: Breastfeeding needs: First time moms who choose to breastfeed need a lot of accessories. These are great items to add to the basket. Purchase some Lanolin cream, nursing pads and breast milk storage bags to help the new mom get off to a great start.

Step 4: Cleanliness needs: Babies have sensitive skin and need their clothes to be washed in a special detergent that is free and clear of dyes and scents. You can find this type of detergent by searching for the words "free and clear" on the bottle. Whether or not the baby is being breast fed, the new mom will need bottles and as such, will need a bottle basket in which to clean the bottles. The bottle basket is placed inside the dishwasher for easy cleaning of the bottles. Another cleaning item the first time mom will need is disinfecting wipes. These come in handy when trying to keep a germ free environment for the new little one.

Step 5: Medicinal needs: First time moms might overlook the fact that having a few medicines on hand is a must. When she has a sick baby, the last thing she will want to do is run out to the store. Stock her up on infant Tylenol, Orajel, and some gas relievers such as Mylicon and Gripewater.

Step 6: Bedding needs: First time moms sometimes underestimate the amount of waste one tiny baby can create! The new mom will need extra crib sheets as well as a few mattress pads. Tuck these items into the "basket" and know that they will get used within the first few weeks.

Step 7: Instructions: The first time mom will appreciate all of the items in the basket but she might not know all of the uses for the items. Take a few moments to write out a "first time mom guide" detailing the purposes for the items you’ve included. She’ll be grateful for your thoughtfulness.

Visit AnotherPerfectGift.com for more ideas and gifts for mom.