Everyone spends so much time getting ready for their baby, it’s easy to forget that new moms need a few supplies too! Giving birth to a baby is hard work for your body, and while you’re recovering, you’ll be taking care of a brand new human. It’s a lot.
Make sure you take the time to get a few of these postpartum essentials to help take care of YOU, mom, while you’re learning to take care of your baby.
1. Heating and Cooling Pads
No matter your birth story, you’re likely going to have some aches, pains, and soreness to deal with. Find some that can be hot or cold so you’ll have the option to go with whatever feels best. We love the TendHer Reusable Ice Packs.
2. Nipple Cream
If you’re planning on breastfeeding your baby, make sure you have some on hand along with breast pads. Even if everything goes perfectly, you might have some soreness and chapping for a while. Earth Mama has wonderful, organic products that smell great and are safe for baby. While you’re there, grab some New Mama Bottom Spray as well, or the Skin and Scar balm if you’re anticipating a C-section.
3. Nursing Bra or Tank that Makes You Feel Good.
We think you deserve to splurge a little on these postpartum essentials. You’re about to be living in these tops for the next several months! We love the options at Kindred Bravely – soft, comfy, and cute enough to wear in public. Make sure you have 5-7 options on hand.
4. A Really Delicious Tea.
The days are long, the nights are late, and the caffeine might be limited. Find a tea that’s delicious and makes you feel cared for. Raspberry Leaf tea is thought to be helpful with postpartum hormones, and Lemon Balm Tea can soothe anxiety and nausea. Birds and Bees Teas Our Lady of La Leche tea is not only delicious, but helps to establish and maintain milk supply.
5. Nursing Pads.
You’ll be bleeding for a while after giving birth, and using tampons in a postpartum no. Have lots of heavy maxi pads on hand, or period panties if they’re more your style. Thinx makes some stylish AND comfortable options – we love the sleep shorts for serious comfort. While on this topic, you will probably also want to invest in some stool softener as well.
6. Sitz Bath or Herbal Bath Soak.
Lots of new moms say taking one or two baths a day with a sitz soak helped them heal faster and feel better. Try this gorgeously scented option from Thena Natural Wellness.
7. A Water Bottle You Love Enough to Keep with You at ALL Times.
Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your postpartum body, and having a water bottle that’s big enough to help you meet your goals is helpful. We recommend finding one with a straw for times when your hands are full – like this giant dishwasher safe option by Reduce.
8. Baby Carrier.
A baby carrier will come in handy during the times when your baby only wants to be held, but you are busy and need to use your hands. Some babies may prefer a wrap style, while others prefer a buckle style baby carrier. Both types are great to add to your baby registry!
9. Breastfeeding Kit.
We know breastfeeding can be tough and we completely empathize with you. One thing to make the process easier is by having an entire breastfeeding kit. This can consist of a nipple cream, a burp cloth, a nursing pillow, tylenol, a nursing cover, and so on. Throw this all into a nursing bag and you will always be ready to go.
10. Breast Pump.
Breast pumps are major breastfeeding essentials for a nursing mom. They are great for when you just need a break. When you are exhausted or busy doing something, if you have a breast pump and bottle, your significant other, family member, or friend can help you out and feed your baby. Conveniently carry it in a breast pump bag for controlling temperature in style!
11. Swaddle Blanket.
Not only is a swaddle one of the best baby essentials, but it is great for you too, mom. Swaddles are must haves for new moms, and are so popular because they keep your baby wrapped up as if they are back inside your womb, while also allowing you to sleep well. Swaddles are a win win!
12. Peri Bottle.
These are true postpartum essentials and will be life savers for you due to soreness down there. All you need to do is fill the bottle with warm water and spray it on your bottom to clean it after going to the bathroom.
It’s easy to get wrapped up in taking care of your new baby, but taking care of YOU is just as important. We hope this list of new mom essentials helps you assemble the tools for a comfortable, safe, and rest-filled recovery time bonding with your little one.
These first few weeks as a mom to a newborn baby are as wonderful as they are messy. Here’s to having everything you need to enjoy your baby girl or baby boy fully!
