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How To Pick Gifts First-Time Mums Will Actually Use

First-time pregnancy is as exciting as it is overwhelming, and when it comes to picking the perfect gift, it’s easy to feel the pressure to get it just right. That’s where we’ve got your back. From the gifts that end up gathering dust to the ones mums genuinely swear by, we’ll walk you through what really works, with tips for every trimester along the way.

Mum-To-Be Gifts Baby Shower Gifts

Tips from mums

- Don't bother with designer styles, unless asked for specifically. They look cute, but they never seem to fit right!

- Gifts that are for pampering mum at home, rather than baby-tailored, always get great feedback.

- You can never have too many baby muslins.

- Be the gift giver who thinks ahead and shop for bigger sizes when it comes to baby grows & sleepsuits - little wardrobes get quickly saturated with newborn sizes that don't last.

- A Rose Gold Large Buggy Clip comes in super handy for carrying extra bits on the pram.

- Baby leggings are another helpful addition to little wardrobes as they’re perfect for tiny crawlers.

- Sleepsuit sets that come with a velour cardigan are great for keeping little one looking dressed up to leave the house, but still have the comfort of a sleepsuit.

- Weather-dependent picks like pramsuits, cardigans and knitted sets. If the baby is due in August, opt for cosy winter essentials in 3-6 month sizes.

- And remember the number one rule: never visit a postpartum mum without snacks and food. Snacks for the nap trap always go down a treat.

Unused gifts

One of the most common gifts that go to waste is newborn clothes for the wrong season (as cute as that fluffy pramsuit is, a springtime baby won’t be needing it anytime soon!). The same goes for overly complicated baby gadgets, which may look impressive but aren't always as practical as they may seem. And while you can never go wrong with a sweet soft toy or blanket, too many can quickly lead to a cluttered nursery… not exactly the calm, cosy space a nesting mum is dreaming of. Remember, the thought absolutely counts, but usefulness will always mean that little bit more. Find out more on how to shop season by season with our blog about The Best Gifts for 2026 Arrivals.

Gifts for 1st trimester

The first trimester is often when pregnant people need a lot of comfort and emotional support. If gifting a first-time mum in this early stage, things like nausea relief items (teas, snacks, bands), comfortable maternity pyjamas and some journals or keepsakes to keep them focused on the exciting milestones ahead can be great choices. Early pregnancy isn't always easy and is often a very private time, so these small, thoughtful items go a long way.

Gifts for 2nd trimester

Did someone say babymoon? Mums-to-be are most likely to head off on their babymoon during the second trimester, where they experience an energy boost, reduced nausea and a more visible baby bump. This is a great time to gift them a maternity swimsuit to keep them comfy and supported while they enjoy some sunshine and relaxation. Maternity dresses are another great option for soon-to-be mums, perfect for capturing those photo-worthy pregnancy moments while keeping them comfy and feeling like their fashionable selves. And for those slower, nesting days, quality essentials like maternity leggings and maternity dungarees that they'll love to live in are always appreciated.

Gifts for 3rd trimester

As they reach that final stretch of their pregnancy, they'll be thinking about hosting a baby shower and getting the nest ready for the baby's arrival. During this time, mums-to-be will need quality nursing clothes and multipack baby grows that can handle all the inevitable outfit changes (bonus tip: zip-up styles are always a hit!). Top off your gifting streak with must-have baby shower gifts as well as some sweet and practical additions to their nursery, like cute changing mats to tackle those back-to-back nappy changes.