Guide to Food Delivery for New Parents

Welcoming a new baby into the family is an incredible joy, but it often comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to meal preparation. Juggling sleep deprivation, endless diaper changes and the demands of caring for a newborn can make food delivery for new parents not just a convenience but a necessity. 

With little time to spare, the thought of planning, shopping for and cooking meals can feel overwhelming. Food delivery services offer a wide variety of nutritious meals delivered right to your doorstep. Whether it’s quick snacks for late-night feedings or full meals to share with family, food delivery can make the early days of parenting a bit smoother.

Food delivery options for new parents

Caring for a newborn changes your daily rhythm almost overnight. To stay nourished without extra stress, many families explore different food delivery options for new parents. From meal kits to fully prepared meals, each option offers its own level of convenience depending on what you need.

Meal kits 

When comparing meal kits and groceries, meal kits provide pre-portioned ingredients and step-by-step recipes, making it easier to cook balanced meals without planning from scratch. While helpful, they still require 20-40 minutes of cooking time, which can be difficult to manage with unpredictable nap schedules or cluster feeding.

Prepared meal services

Prepared meal services deliver fully cooked dishes that only need reheating. They’re quick and convenient but often require a weekly subscription or minimum order. For families who want more variety, these services may feel limiting.

Instacart (the all-in-one solution)

Instacart enables new parents to access both groceries and ready-made meals from local stores in a single order, making it a true all-in-one solution. You can stock up on fresh produce, grab-and-go items, pantry staples and even prepared entrées — ideal for stocking your own kitchen, sending a meal delivery gift or arranging a new parent care package. 

Instacart also delivers non-food essentials like diapers, wipes and medicine, giving families more flexibility than traditional meal services.

How to order food for new parents through Instacart

Ordering food can be a quick and hassle-free experience for new parents using Instacart. Learn how below so you can focus on what really matters: spending time with your new bundle of joy. After all, according to family dinner statistics, families that eat together are less stressed, making meal delivery for new parents a fantastic option during this busy time.

1. Create an Instacart account

To get started with Instacart, you’ll need to create an account. Just provide some basic information: your name, email address, phone number, password and location. Creating an account is simple, and it opens up a range of benefits, such as saving addresses for future orders and creating personalized shopping lists, making it easier to find your favorite items.

2. Search for products and add them to the cart 

Once your account is set up, you can begin searching for products. Use the search bar to enter specific keywords or phrases related to what you need — whether it’s ordering baby food, snacks or ready-to-eat meals. 

You can also apply filters to narrow down your options by category, brand or dietary preference, making it easy to find essentials and plan meals for new parents. 

3. Choose a delivery option

After selecting your items, it’s time to choose a delivery option. Instacart offers various delivery methods, including same-day delivery or scheduled deliveries at your convenience. When placing your order, select a time that works for you, whether it’s during nap time or after a feeding session, so you can receive your meal delivery without disrupting your day.

4. Check out and pay

At checkout, you can choose from several payment methods, including credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, PayPal and more. This flexibility allows you to select the option that suits you best, making the checkout process as smooth as possible.

5. Track your order

Once you’ve placed your order, you can easily track its status using the Instacart app or website. You’ll receive notifications and updates regarding your order, including estimated delivery times and any changes in your order status. This feature keeps you informed, allowing you to plan your day without worrying about when your food will arrive.

Commonly ordered products for new parents

New parents often find themselves in need of quick, convenient meals that don’t compromise on nutrition or taste. With a meal delivery service for new parents like Instacart, you can easily stock up on essentials to prepare quick meals for new moms and dads who need something nourishing, fast.

Here are some commonly ordered categories to help streamline your grocery list and keep your family well-fed. 

Prepared meals

When you’re short on time, prepared meals make it easy to get food on the table without cooking from scratch. They’re also great to include in food delivery gifts for new parents, since they reheat quickly and offer a variety of flavors.

• Salads

• Sandwiches

• Pizza

• Burgers

• Wraps

• Pasta dishes

• Quiches

• Stir-fries

• Soups

• Sushi

Easy food options 

These everyday staples make it simple to put together quick lunches and well-balanced dinners. Because many of them store well in the fridge or pantry, they’re especially helpful for new parents trying to keep mealtimes stress-free.

• Fruits and vegetables

• Whole grains

• Lean proteins

• Dairy products

• Nuts and seeds

• Frozen vegetables

• Legumes (chickpeas, black beans, lentils)

• Eggs

• Tofu

Snacks and treats 

Snacks can be invaluable in keeping energy levels steady during long days, growth spurts and unpredictable newborn schedules. Choose a mix of quick bites and more filling options, or send a curated snack box as a thoughtful meal delivery gift for sleep-deprived parents.

• Chips

• Popcorn

• Crackers

• Dried fruits

• Cheese sticks

• Vegetable chips

• Protein bars

• Rice cakes

• Chocolate

• Granola

Best one-handed, nutrient-dense snacks 

New parents often need quick, nourishing snacks they can grab with one hand while holding a baby. These options are easy to eat and keep stocked, making them especially helpful during long days of feeding, rocking and settling a newborn.

• Oatmeal cups

• Fenugreek teas

• Lactation cookies

• Pre-cut cheese

• Greek yogurt cups

• Hard-boiled eggs

• Snack-size trail mix or nut packs

• Protein bars or shakes

• Bananas

• Apples

• Clementines

• Single-serving guacamole packs

• Baby carrots

Pantry staples

Keeping a few pantry staples on hand makes it easier to pull together simple meals during busy newborn days. These basics store well, minimize trips to the store and help you stay prepared even when your routine feels unpredictable.

• Spices and seasonings

• Baking supplies

• Pasta sauces

• Canned goods (tomatoes, soups)

• Cooking oils

• Condiments (ketchup, mustard, soy sauce)

• Broth or stock

• Sugar substitutes (honey, agave)

• Vinegar (balsamic, apple cider)

• Nut butters

Beverages 

Keeping a mix of hydrating and energizing drinks on hand can help new parents stay refreshed throughout long days and nights. These beverage basics are easy to stock and offer something for every preference.

• Water

• Energy drinks

• Coffee

• Tea

• Juices

• Sparkling water

• Milk alternatives (almond, soy)

• Protein shakes

Baby food and supplies 

Having essential feeding items and baby supplies delivered can save time and help you stay prepared for every stage of your newborn’s routine. Keeping baby food organized also makes mealtimes smoother, especially on days when your hands are full.

• Baby food

• Diapers and wipes

• Formula

• Bottles and nipples

• Teething snacks

• Baby cereals

• Pouches (pureed food)

• Baby snacks (puffs, yogurt melts)

• Pacifiers

Benefits of food delivery for new parents

Food delivery services provide a wealth of advantages for new parents, making the transition into parenthood a bit smoother. 

With the demands of caring for a newborn, parents often find themselves stretched thin, and using a prepared meal delivery for new parents can be a game-changer. Not only does it simplify meal planning, but it also offers a range of options to suit any family’s tastes, from weeknight dinner ideas to comforting Sunday dinner recipes.

Here are some benefits of using food delivery services as new parents:

• Eliminates trips to the grocery store: Say goodbye to long lines and crowded shops; food delivery allows you to get what you need from the comfort of your home.

• Convenience: Order meals and groceries anytime, making it easy to fit into your unpredictable schedule as new parents.

• Flexibility: Choose delivery times that work best for your family, whether it’s during nap times or after a late-night feeding.

• Variety: Access a diverse selection of meals and ingredients to keep your family’s diet interesting and satisfying.

• Safety: Minimize exposure to germs by avoiding crowded grocery stores, which is especially important in the early days of your baby’s life.

• Meal planning assistance: Simplify planning with pre-selected meals and recipe ideas, reducing the guesswork of what to cook.

• Less stress: Reduce the mental load of meal preparation and planning, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with your new baby.

• Time-saving: Free up valuable time that can be spent bonding with your baby instead of cooking or shopping.

• Healthier options: Many delivery services offer nutritious meals that cater to dietary restrictions and preferences, supporting your family’s health.

You can also personalize your orders to meet specific needs, whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for healthy alternatives.

Convenient food delivery for new parents

For new parents, food delivery can significantly ease the transition into parenthood. With the demands of caring for a newborn, cooking meals may feel overwhelming, but having convenient meal options delivered right to your door can save precious time and energy. 

Many services offer ready-to-eat meals and customizable options, allowing you to enjoy nutritious food without the stress of meal prep. You can also use leftover recipes to turn last night’s dinner into a delicious lunch, minimizing food waste and maximizing convenience.

If you’re ready to simplify your mealtime routine, order delivery now through Instacart. With just a few clicks, you can explore various meal options tailored for new parents, making it easy to ensure you always have something delicious on hand.

Food delivery for new parents FAQ

Here are answers to common questions parents have about using food delivery during the newborn phase. These quick tips can help you make the most of flexible delivery options and nourishing meal choices.

Are Instacart's delivery times flexible for my baby's unpredictable schedule? 

Yes. Instacart offers same-day and scheduled delivery windows, allowing you to choose times that work around naps, feedings and last-minute changes in your routine.

What are some lactation-friendly foods I can order? 

Many breastfeeding parents choose nutrient-dense options like oatmeal, nuts, yogurt, leafy greens and lactation cookies. These items are easy to keep on hand and can support steady energy throughout the day.

Are meal delivery services worth it for moms? 

Yes. Meal delivery services can save time and energy while providing nutritious meals during a demanding stage of parenting. They make it easier for moms to stay nourished without the added stress of meal planning or shopping.

What food should I send to new parents? 

Simple meals, easy snacks and ready-to-eat options are always appreciated. Items like prepared entrées, fresh fruit, hearty soups and one-handed snacks help new parents stay fueled during long days and nights with a newborn.