Two of my friends had baby showers recently. For their third babies. No, this post is not about my opinion on having a baby shower after your first baby. To each mama their own!
What I’m about to share with you is my idea of a unique, thoughtful, affordable, fully customizable baby shower gift, made especially for moms who just don’t need the normal registry stuff. Although, brand spankin’ new moms may appreciate it as a gag gift, so long as it has nothing to do with morning sickness.
I call it a Mom’s Survival Kit. Original, I know.
Here’s the one I made last weekend:

And here’s exactly what I put in it, along with a note that explains why :
Mints because you don’t have time to brush your teeth!
Facial Wipes because you’ll be too tired at night (keep in your nightstand…trust me.)
Dry Shampoo because showers are a thing of the past.
Snacks because you don’t have time to eat a real meal!
Ready-To-Bake Brownie Mix because…because…does this really need an explanation?
Burt’s Bees Baby Oil because new baby smell doesn’t last forever!
Dark Chocolate because you need your mommy vitamins.
Now, in order to raise this kit to hit-of-the-party status, it’s very important what you list as the last item. I usually include a box of relaxing tea, or if I know the mom will breastfeed I’ll choose one that supports lactation. Why? Because I promise to come over, brew you a cup, and let you relax while I clean something.
Aw, that last one is enough to make any mama smile.
Like I said, it’s fully customizable and should be related to your knowledge and experience as a seasoned mom.
What would you put in your Mom’s Survival Kit?

Be sure to check out the rest of my Birth Story Reflections series:
When The Physical And Spiritual Worlds Collide
Top 10 Reasons Why I Prefer To Give Birth In A Hospital









{ 31 comments… read them below or add one }
This is a great kit! I would add a lightly scented candle (lavendar or rosemary) – so you don’t forget what “not poop” smells like.
You’re right! This kit is definitely missing a candle…perfect reason too!
This is brilliant and I wish I had a girlfriend like you! Love the bit about the tea. I think you covered everything. If I knew she was going to try nursing, breast pads actually a box of kotex would be a good addition, too
Such a sweet comment! Thank you!
Awesome idea. Very very awesome.
Thanks Amber!
Very Cute idea! Love the little survival kits… showering is over rated anyways…
What is this showering you speak of?
Love this idea! Now that I have a solid group of mommy friends, we do just small sprinkles when one of us is pregnant with #2, 3, 4, etc… and we try to make it about the mom and not necessarily gifts for the baby because we all already have what we need for the most part. I totally repinned this because I want to remember it! I love the idea of adding a candle… and perhaps just one of those teeny airplane bottles of wine- hahaha but hey, that’s just me
I’m so with you on the wine idea, Jeanne. Thanks for pinning this!
Such a cute idea!
Thank you!
I might have another baby just for so you can bring the goods… What a smashing idea. You really are a creative one, LOVE IT!
Thanks, Stasha! If that was in your stars, one of these kits would definitely come your way.
This is such a great idea. I’ve never been to a baby shower except my own. BUT if I ever go to one, I’m bringing this.
I owe the addition of dry-shampoo to you, Liz! Life-changing!
I love this kit! And, I think this is such a great idea for new moms! I like Brandi’s idea of adding in a scented candle. Those are always nice to have.
Thanks, Jessica! I love the candle idea too…goes well with Jeanne’s mini wine bottle idea…maybe some bubble bath. Or what’s it called- a sitz bath? I never tried that, but I heard they’re very helpful.
This is awesome!! What a fabulous idea!! And, truly, you are a great and thoughtful friend…they are lucky to have you
Thanks, Jen…It only took me 4 babies to come up with this idea!
Christine, this is brilliant! You are very thoughtful, mama! You know I’ll be stealing this idea for my next second time mom baby shower.
Thanks for linking up with #BestOfTheBlogosphere!
Thanks and you’re welcome, Sue!
This is a great idea! I can’t stand the whole concept of serial baby showers (unless there are multiples involved…then you need all the help you can get). You were thoroughly warned after the first one was born. But this is a great way around it, and at least it’s original!
Thanks! I think all moms could use a heartfelt laugh and some dry shampoo.
I love the mints “because you don’t have time to brush your teeth!” Thanks for linking up to celebrate Alison my friend! (-:
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Aw, thank you Christine! So sorry I’m late to check your post out. I love the idea of a survival kit – I need to send this to my well-meaning friends
You’re welcome! Get used to being late from here on out
I usually add a pretty nightie that has easy access for nursing babies to first baby shower gifts. I had to laugh at the Tucks idea. Sorry I didn’t think of that one.
No one wants to be reminded of Tucks, lol. I once handed down my favorite nursing nightie so I agree it makes a good gift.
I would add a sleep/eye mask, so you can block out the sun
Whenever there is a nap opportunity! Love this idea- so creative
And thoughtful
Great idea, Sheila…love it!
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