These Are the Best Gifts for New Moms, According to an Actual Mother

"So much easier than getting out the whole vacuum."

Any new mom can tell you that babies are as messy as they are adorable—especially after about six months when they start noshing on solid food. There's no better way to eradicate the inevitable spills than with a sleek and lightweight hand vac. The best part? It's cordless.

"The perfect thing to look forward to after a long day of swaddling, not-napping, and feeding."

Giving up wine for nine months is a real sacrifice for some moms. So once the baby comes and she can finally enjoy a glass, she'll want it to be from a quality bottle. Enter this bundle of carefully curated options that are low in both alcohol and sugar.

"Her house will be a mess, but at least it will smell amazing."

Another mess that comes with infants? Spit-up, which isn't exactly a trip to the local parfumerie. This Capri Blue diffuser may not limit the spit-up incidents, but it'll definitely help mask the smell with its subtle notes of tropical fruit. If you've ever visited an Anthropologie store, you'll recognize the heavenly scent.

Massages are a luxury meant to be enjoyed by all ages—even newborns. Kahlmi's baby massager, which includes the soothing wand and three interchangeable massage heads, not only totally relaxes newborns, but it can also soothe them while they experience any kind of natural discomfort, including teething, gas, or colic. Plus, giving your little one a massage can improve digestion, sleep, and even your bond.

"Instant sunshine for the house, no care required."

The last thing new mothers need is another precious thing to nurture, but that doesn't mean they want to come home to an empty, lifeless home. Plants, even faux ones, are mood-boosting decorations that can make her space feel warm and welcoming.

New moms may not have the time to whip up elaborate meals, but that doesn't mean they have to stop cooking altogether. That's why we're recommending a reliable nontoxic pan that's also the most versatile piece of cookware on offer. If you want to go above and beyond, get her a one-pan recipe book too.

We know these types of cameras are old-school, but that's what makes them fun. Plus, if you're looking for a way to spruce up your refrigerator, nothing is cuter than a collection of baby Polaroids.

Baby brain, the mental fogginess that often supplements pregnancy, can persist well after the bundle of joy comes. So get your forgetful friend a notebook to keep track of everything she needs to remember. She can also use it as a scrapbook for all things baby.

"Getting through her list of thank-you notes will be way easier with cute cards."

One of the many benefits of having a baby is the myriad gifts she'll get—both for herself and the newborn. A set of 10 thank-you cards is a shoo-in when it comes to thoughtful gifts she'll actually use.

This Dyson fan, which is currently $140 off, cools and purifies, two features any new mom experiencing unexpected sweats can appreciate. It also can remove harmful gases in the air and more than 99 percent of allergens and pollutants, which is ideal for new babies with undeveloped immune systems.

One of the best gifts for new moms is this Blueland laundry starter kit, which may sound like an odd present, but hear us out: No one does more laundry than new parents with an infant. From spit-up to diaper leaks, there are a lot of smelly messes to deal with, and in our opinion an all-natural laundry detergent is a great solution.

"I've heard new moms swear by this; it takes the hassle out of making a bottle when you're bleary-eyed. It's pricey, so most new moms don't buy it for themselves! Perfect gift."

Instead of shaking up new bottles, just keep formula powder in the top and hit the button when you're ready for a fit. Set the temperature just how your little one likes it.

We've mentioned it before and we'll mention it again: Babies spill things and spit up—often with no warning. There's no reason why such accidents should ruin your furniture, so as soon as there's a spill, leak, or spit up, reach for this easy-to-use steam cleaner, which will freshen up your space in a matter of minutes.

New moms will want to take advantage of any opportunity they have to catch a few zzz's—even if only for a few minutes at a time. These super-soft faux-fur throw blankets will create the ultimate cozy nap experience. The punchy colors certainly don't hurt, either.

A powder that made of adaptogens and herbs that relieve stress to promote sleep, Dream Dust will do the trick if the cozy throw blanket doesn't. It's a blend of ashwagandha, jujube, polygala, chamomile, and schisandra—all powerful ingredients that will lull you to sleep in a healthy and natural way.

"There's really no limit to how many burp cloths you need. They get icky quick, so replenish her stash."

Sometimes baby messes can happen on the mom, so a set of bath towels makes for a great gift (bonus points if you get them monogrammed).

Rest is hard to come by for most new parents, so creating the perfect environment to recharge is essential. Our product of choice? Hatch's Restore machine, which is an alarm clock, sound machine, and ambient light.

If she has a few minutes to enjoy a little at-home spa moment, her first stop will likely be the bath. This caddy creates an oasis, with space for a book, a glass of wine, soap, and anything else she wants on hand.

A fancy candle is always a good gift, no matter the occasion. With notes of jasmine, neroli, rose, cedar, musk, and vetiver, this one has a velvety fresh scent that any new parent can appreciate.