11 Best gifts for new working moms  

Once you become a parent, the holiday season tends to become all about the kids — which, to be honest, can be pretty fun. But it can be a lot of work too, especially if you’re trying to survive the holiday season while breastfeeding. Most parents would love to unwrap something for themselves — especially something that makes life a little easier. 

This holiday season, show your appreciation for the hard-working mom in your life with a little something extra. And if you’re not sure what they’d like, we’ve rounded up some ideas. Read on for our favorite gifts for working moms. 

1. An actually stylish pump bag

A pump bag doesn’t need to look like a pump bag. A tote like the Sarah Wells’ Abby bag is sleek enough for work, but large enough for a pump and accessories — plus room for a laptop and lunch. Insulated pockets at the bottom are made for breast milk and ice packs, and a side zip pocket provides plenty of room to store a pump, with easy access for midday sessions. Durable and easy to clean, this is sure to be one of the most appreciated gifts for moms going back to work.  

2. Listening material for a brain vacation

Between work and kids, when is a busy working mom supposed to find time to curl up with a good book? An Audible membership can turn a commute, walk in the park, or trip to the store into an immersive experience. Memberships range anywhere from one month to a year’s worth of audiobook credits. Best of all, they’ll have the ability to choose any kind of book they love — whether that’s personal development, enthralling dramas, or learning a new language.  

3. Caffeine on-demand

Is there anything better than the smell of coffee in the morning? The Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker is a sleek, gorgeous way to wake up to a hot cup of brew. The app allows you to control the strength, amount, and even the temperature of your coffee from afar. Can’t reach your phone? No worries, this smart coffee machine pairs with Google Assistant and Alexa. Really, it’s the next best thing to having someone else make your coffee for you. 

4. A cozy sweater (with room for two) 

Catching a few extra zzz’s each night is (of course) the best gift for a new mom — but if that’s not possible, wrapping them in a cloud-like cocoon cardigan is the next best thing. The Hatch Collection features this cozy Snuggle Sweater in two great staple colors. Designed to go seamlessly from maternity to babywearing, this wrap makes a perfect gift for a new mom-to-be, as well as anyone who’s always got a little on their hip.  

5. Jewelry that goes with everything

For a sentimental gift that won’t sit on the shelf, go for a simple necklace stamped with baby’s initial. Save or splurge; there are so many options of brand, material, and design that you can find a gorgeous piece at any price point. We love the classic design of the One in a Million initial pendant necklace from Kate Spade New York. 

6. A classic baby keepsake

While any parent probably has a million photos saved on their phone, a baby book makes for a beautiful keepsake. Emily Ley’s version covers birth to age 2, with a mix of prompts and open spaces. One of the best features: It’s three-ring bound, so extra pages can be added along the way. Help get mom started by printing out some special photos, and if it’s appropriate, fill in a few pages.

7. A mid-day meal (or late-night snack)    

The moms in your life will truly appreciate anything that makes life easier. Serve up a gift card to a favorite lunch spot, or grab one for a delivery app so they can choose their own meals. One thing they’ll appreciate not having to do: spending precious minutes brown-bagging a lunch in the a.m.

8. A calendar that combines form and function

Working parents have an endless number of tasks to keep up with, and often don’t have the luxury of separating work stuff from home stuff — especially if they work from home. Give them a planner with ample room to manage both. Passion Planner has a variety of stunning designs, with reflective prompts and space to record favorite memories. And for those who do everything on their phones, digital planners are also available.  

9. An endorphin-inducing sweat sesh

Know a fitness enthusiast who needs some me-time? Give them permission to get away with a pass to their favorite yoga studio, cycling class, or training program. For a mix-and-match option, ClassPass offers plenty of flexibility in location, schedule, and type of workout. ClassPass credits can also be used toward self-care experiences, like a mani/pedi, haircut, or massage.  

10. Spa-worthy skincare 

Assemble a basket of indulgent skincare products that give the feeling of a spa day, even after back-to-back meetings. Travel-sized tubes of high-quality body butter and hand cream are perfect for working moms who have to hop on a plane, commute to an office, or even just need a pump break pick-me-up.

11. An extra set of hands

When it comes down to it, the best gift for a working mom is time. Schedule someone to come in to help with cleaning, laundry, dog-walking, or mowing the lawn. Taking something off their plate gives busy parents a chance to relax, spend time with the kids (or solo), and reminds them that they don’t have to do it all alone.