Have you ever had a “bad mum” moment? You know… the ones where you feel like you’ve dropped the ball, and guilt creeps in. We’re here to remind you: those moments don’t make you a bad mum. In fact, they’re often signs that you’re doing the real, unpolished, incredible work of raising tiny humans.
Guess what? The perfect mum doesn’t exist.
Yep… rewind and read that again.
The perfect mum does not exist.
Parenting is messy, unpredictable, and sometimes powered by cereal dinners and extra episodes of Bluey. And that’s okay. Let’s flip the script and reframe those “bad mum” moments into what they truly are: proof that you’re showing up, every day, with love.
Everyday “Bad Mum” Moments (That Aren’t Bad at All)
- Dinner was just toast, cereal, or nuggets (again).
Reality check: They ate, they’re full, and you survived another witching hour.
- Your baby’s outfit is mismatched or covered in stains.
Reality check: They’re warm, comfy, and adored. Fashion doesn’t matter to a loved baby. And that judgy lady at the supermarket? You’ll never see her ever again!
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You forgot to pack spare clothes in the nappy bag.
Reality check: You improvised. That’s creative problem-solving in action.
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The floor looks like a toy store exploded.
Reality check: Your child is exploring, learning, and thriving. A messy floor = an active, curious kid. Just avoid stepping on the painful lego blocks if you can :P
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Your baby napped in the car instead of the cot.
Reality check: Sleep happened. Everyone wins. The reality of a perfect sleep routine is not always achievable, so feel free to lighten the mental and roll with the punches every once in a while.
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You bribed your toddler with naughty snacks to survive the supermarket.
Reality check: Groceries bought, tantrum averted. That’s a mum win.
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You didn’t shower until 3pm.
Reality check: You prioritised your little one. Your skincare routine can wait; their needs came first. And guess what? You’re little one thinks you are the most beautiful person they’ve ever seen.
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You handed over your phone for screen time.
Reality check: You enjoyed five blissful minutes to drink a hot coffee. Bliss is vital. Next time you need a break, why not try Riff Raff TV?
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Fruit was served straight from the packet, no Pinterest-worthy platter.
Reality check: Nutrition still counts. Nobody needs watermelon cut into stars.
The Deeper "Bad Mum" Moments We Don't Talk About Enough
Some moments cut deeper than a messy floor or cereal for dinner, because they tug at your heart. But just like we said above, your best is good enough, and your love for your baby is unmatched!
- Returning to work and leaving your baby in care.
Reality check: Providing for your family is an act of love. You’re showing your child resilience, commitment, and that they are safe in the care of others. A comforter from Riff Raff can help bridge the gap, giving them a familiar sense of security while you’re apart.
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Committing to a girls’ night out (and feeling guilty about it). Reality check: You’re recharging your batteries. A rested, connected, joyful mum brings so much more back to her family. Self-care isn’t selfish - it’s survival.
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Dropping your baby off while they cry in your arms. Reality check: Tears at goodbyes are a sign of strong attachment, not weakness. Your child trusts you enough to show their emotions. Sending them with their Riff Raff Sleep Toy gives them something soft and familiar until you’re back and can make the transition that little bit easier.
- Snapping at your toddler after a long day. Reality check: You’re human. Repairing with love and a cuddle teaches them more about resilience and forgiveness than perfection ever could.
The Bigger Picture
These moments (no matter how big or small they may seem) don’t make you a “bad mum.” They make you a real mum. The kind of mum who loves fiercely, juggles endlessly, and sometimes has to let go of “perfect” to embrace “good enough.”
So next time guilt creeps in, flip the script: you’re not failing. You’re thriving in the beautifully messy reality of motherhood.
And remember: your little one doesn’t see a “bad mum.” They see their safe place, their comfort, their world.
Ready to join a community of like-minded parents? Join Riff Raff Ramblers Private Facebook Group today.