How to make a pamper hamper
Build it around one evening rather than a pile of products. Choose one main item they'll really use, add a few small things that go with it, and pack it in something useful. Keep skincare simple, and check for allergies and pregnancy before giving anything with active ingredients. A note saying when they should use it makes it feel thought through.
Start with the person
A hamper works when it feels like you thought about them, rather than about hampers. Is it for a tired new parent, a friend having a hard year, or a mum who never stops? Then ask what they'd actually do with a free evening: bath, book, playlist, or just lying still.
A simple formula
- One main thing. The item that makes it feel like a gift.
- Something warm. Good tea, hot chocolate, a nice mug.
- Something soft. Socks, a flannel, a hand towel.
- Something to do. A book, a magazine, a puzzle.
- Something to eat. Good chocolate, or something they'd never buy for themselves.
- A note. "Use on a Sunday night, phone off."
Three or four good things beat ten small ones. Local makers are worth a look for the food and candles, and a basket, bowl or storage tin as the container is a gift that keeps going.
Ideas by person
- For someone who needs a break: a soft towel, herbal tea, a book, and a promise to take the kids for the evening. That last one may be the best thing in it.
- For a skincare fan: one thing they haven't tried, rather than a basic they already have. Check what they use first.
- For someone who's unwell: skip scented products and anything strong. Comfort goes further: socks, tea, something to read. Check with them or their family first.
- For a new parent: food and an offer of practical help. Skincare with retinoids isn't a good fit if they're breastfeeding.
Check before you give
- Allergies. Scented candles, bath oils and botanical skincare can all be a problem for some people. Lavender and chamomile are common examples.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Many skincare products contain retinoids or similar actives. See skincare in pregnancy.
- Sensitive skin. When in doubt, pick something that doesn't go on skin.
- Open and use by. If you're adding skincare, check how long it keeps. Don't decant into cute jars unless you label them.
If you include a jelly mask
It makes a good main item, because it's an experience as well as a product, and our gift guide covers which formula to give. Rose suits a wind-down, with its gentle rose scent, and Hyaluronic Acid is the one for skin that feels tight. Skip anything sold on gold flakes: the gold is for sparkle. A jar is $54 and makes about 8 masks. You could add a small bowl and a handwritten card with the steps. A Jelly Duo, one jar to give and one to keep, is $97 shipped free.
Do tell them what's in it. Hyaluronic Acid contains retinol, kojic acid and arbutin, Rose and Tea Tree list fragrance, and they'll want to patch test first whichever you choose. Keep the powder dry and the lid tight in the meantime.
Questions
What do you put in a pamper hamper?
One main item, something warm to drink, something soft, something to do, a treat to eat, and a note. Three or four good things beat a pile of small ones.
What's a good pamper gift for someone who's pregnant?
Food, tea, soft things and practical help are safe bets. Many skincare products contain retinoids or other actives, so check with them and their midwife or doctor before giving skincare.
This is general information, not medical advice. If you're worried about your skin, see your GP or a skin specialist.