The DIY breastfeeding snack basket I make for new mum friend gifting
Visiting a new mum? One top tip, if you know she’s chosen to breastfeed – bring a breastfeeding snack basket. A really good one.
Although lovely and well meaning, forget flowers (she doesn’t need something else to keep alive) and newborn clothes (baby is definitely already taken care of). A breastfeeding snack box, on the other hand, will end up either stationed beside the bed, tucked next to the sofa, or living permanently by the feeding chair as the go-to stash for those marathon feeds when she’s pinned under a sleeping baby with only one hand free, trying to squeeze in some much needed nourishment.
Recently, my friends have started having their own kids. In equal parts ignorance, awe and keenness to show up for them as they navigate motherhood for the first time, I’ve researched, tried and tested, and landed on a formula I come back to each time I make mine, inspired in part by Senior Editor Jessie’s brilliant new mum gift list – read up, if you haven’t seen it yet.
It’s a fact that breastfeeding mums need extra calories. So with this in mind, everything is nutritious, shelf stable, pretty easy to grab with one hand, and practical enough to make long feeds a little easier.
Breastfeeding basket ideas – A quick checklist
If you’re building your own breastfeeding snack basket or breastfeeding gift box but not sure where to start, my usual formula looks something like this:
- 3 savoury snacks – something crunchy, salty and filling
- 3 sweet snacks – easy treats or snack bars
- 2–3 drinks – hydration support plus something comforting
- 2–3 useful extras – think practical things she’ll reach for
- A basket, tote bag or storage box – bonus points if she can reuse it for baby bits afterwards
That’s literally it. And tbh, even a small box with some carefully chosen snacks can make her life easier.
Now, let’s get into it. If you’re putting together a breastfeeding basket gift for a new mum, this is exactly what I’d pack:
The savouries
Savoury snacks are usually the first things to go in any breastfeeding snack box I make. New mums often get gifted chocolates and sweet treats, which are always welcome, but something salty and crunchy can feel especially good when you’ve been snacking around the clock and probably need to replace some of those sodium levels.
Cheesies Cheddar Crunchy Popped Cheese
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These are packed with flavour, satisfy that savoury craving instantly, and feel more substantial than crisps. Because they’re made from baked cheese (and nothing else) they’re high in protein too, which makes them ideal when you need something to keep you going between meals.
They’re also easy to eat one-handed straight from the bag while feeding. Win!
Hippeas Chick Pea Puffs
Light, crunchy and easy to snack on without much effort. They’re great if someone wants something savoury but doesn’t fancy anything too rich.
I like including these because they add variety to the basket and feel a little fun without being overly processed or heavy. They’re also vegan, so if you’re skipping the cheese above, this is a great alternative.
Graze Sea Salt & Pepper protein nut crunch
Nuts and pulses bring protein, fibre and healthy fats, which makes it really satisfying when you need something with staying power.
It’s the sort of snack that can bridge the gap between meals when lunch didn’t happen properly. Plus, they come in resealable bags, and are great for dipping in and out of.
The sweets
There’s always a sweet section in my breastfeeding basket ideas list. You want balance, and sometimes a quick sugar boost with a cup of tea can feel like a tiny reset in the middle of a very long day (or night).
Biona dark chocolate cherries
These feel like a treat but still have a bit more substance than a standard chocolate bar. The dark chocolate is rich enough that a handful feels satisfying, and the cherry centre makes them feel special.
A little afternoon pick-me-up during contact naps or cluster feeds.
Nakd apple and cinnamon fruit and fibre bars
Super portable, and high in all-important fibre, these are brilliant. Think soft, naturally sweet, and easy to eat quickly with one hand.
They also travel well between bedside table, nappy caddy, changing bag and sofa arm. I always try to include at least one grab-and-go bar in a breastfeeding snack basket.
Border biscuits mini packs
Bedside tea breaks and little moments of calm, these are always a huge hit.
The mini packs make them feel portioned and easy to tuck into a basket without everything spilling everywhere.
If you’re into it, you substitute these with some homemade lactation cookies – peep our own lactation cookie recipe here, for an easy how-to.
The drinks
Because hydration is key here. Breastfeeding can make you unbelievably thirsty, I’m told, and the NHS says that having a drink beside you when you settle down to breastfeed is always recommended.
BodyBio e-lyte Electrolyte Supplement for Hydration
Electrolytes can be helpful alongside water, especially during periods when feeding is constant.
This one is easy to add to a bottle of water and doesn’t take up much space in the basket.
HotTea Mama Milk’s Up Fenugreek, Fennel & Aniseed Tea
Warm, comforting, and made specifically with breastfeeding in mind.
Some mums love having a dedicated tea ritual while feeding. It becomes part of the rhythm of the day. A warm mug beside you can feel incredibly grounding.
Fenugreek and fennel are two herbs that are commonly included in conversations around breastfeeding snacks to increase milk supply, although experiences vary from person to person.
Boobix Boobie Hot Chocolate
This one always gets a smile.
It’s cosy and comforting, especially for evening feeds or winter time. A mug of hot chocolate after a difficult day can feel like a small luxury without needing too much effort to make.
Editor’s note – I’ll usually avoid gifting caffeinated teas, or anything very heavy on peppermint or sage. Mostly, though, I stick to what I know she enjoys drinking.
The lil’ extras
Chilly’s insulated water bottle
Because a cold drink within reach is gold.
A good insulated bottle keeps water cold for hours and encourages constant sipping throughout the day. I nearly always include one if I know she doesn’t already have a favourite.
Belkin – Two meter charging cable
When feeds run longer than expected, phones end up balancing on cushions while charging from impossible angles. A longer cable solves that instantly.
It’s practical, immediately useful, and something people rarely buy for themselves.
My Little Coco – BABY MAMA Soothing Nipple Balm
Gentle skincare can feel incredibly welcome during breastfeeding, especially in the early days or teething times.
A nipple balm is one of those products that’s useful to have ready from day one. Even if it doesn’t get used every day, it’s a self care saviour that can be really handy to have nearby.
There we have it! A homemade breastfeeding basket gift. Tailor yours to exactly what she likes.
New mum support to scroll, save & share
Whether you’re in the absolute ride that is postpartum and breastfeeding yourself, or you’re supporting someone who is, bookmark the below:
- Lactation cookie 101: Do lactation cookies work? Moms say yes, and here’s my super-yummy recipe
- Your new mum care package blueprint: Putting together a new mum care package? These are my must-haves
- Postnatal yoga pointers: The postnatal yoga benefits, poses and pointers all new mamas should know
- Make it about micronutrients: Why (nearly) every new mama needs a Vit D spray
- Baby won’t latch? When they just won’t stay latched on (but will cry – a lot) – SOS guide
