In This Article
Why Every New Mum Needs a Postpartum Kit
1. Maternity Pads
2. Postpartum Underwear
3. Perineal Bottle
4. Nipple Cream
5. Breast Pads
6. Perineal Healing Spray
7. Sitz Bath and Salts
8. Donut Pillow
9. Pain Relief
10. Hydration and Snacks
Bonus Must-Haves for Your Postpartum Kit
FAQs About Postpartum Kits
Getting Ready for Your Postpartum Journey
Bringing your baby into the world is a moment like no other but let’s be real, the postpartum recovery period? That’s a whole different adventure. Your body has just done something incredible, and now it needs time (and plenty of TLC) to heal.
Whether you’ve had a vaginal delivery or a c-section, a well-stocked postpartum kit will be your best friend in those first few weeks. From soothing sore muscles to staying comfortable while nursing, these 10 postpartum care essentials will help you recover with a little more ease and a lot less stress.
Why Every New Mum Needs a Postpartum Kit
Sure, your hospital might send you home with a few supplies, but trust us it won’t be enough to get you through those first few weeks. A postpartum kit helps you manage everything from post-birth bleeding to breastfeeding discomfort, so you can focus on your baby and yourself.
Think of it as your survival kit for the fourth trimester because let’s face it, you deserve as much care as your little one right now.
1. Maternity Pads
Postpartum bleeding (hello, lochia!) is heavy in the first couple of weeks, and maternity pads are a non-negotiable. They’re bigger, softer, and more absorbent than regular pads exactly what you need when your body is recovering from birth.
💡 Tip: Avoid tampons or cups until your doctor gives the all-clear at your six-week check-up. And trust us stock up, Tom Organic Maternity Pads are a great place to start.
2. Postpartum Underwear
Say goodbye to your usual undies for a while. Postpartum underwear is designed to hold your pads, support your belly, and protect c-section stitches if you’ve had surgery.
During the lochia phase, you'll want cotton postpartum disposable underwear. These are soft and stretchy to hold pads in place.
For the first few weeks/months you'll want something to tenderly hold you and our Shilo After Birth Briefs are perfect for that. For more targeted support, our Postnatal Pelvic Recovery Briefs feature a sewn-in belt with a thin power net that tightens the pelvis and supports the lower abdomen during recovery from birth.
3. Perineal Bottle
Going to the bathroom after birth? It’s not fun. A peri bottle makes it bearable by gently rinsing your sore areas without any painful wiping. Keep one in every bathroom and maybe even one in your nappy bag for when you’re out.
4. Nipple Cream
Breastfeeding is beautiful, but let’s be honest—it can also be painful at first. A good nipple cream soothes soreness and prevents cracks as you and your baby adjust to nursing.
💧 Gaia Nipple Balm is a top choice—gentle, effective, and safe for baby.
5. Breast Pads
Leaking through your shirt is just part of the postpartum package. Breast pads keep you dry, comfortable, and ready to handle unexpected letdowns. Whether you prefer reusable bamboo or disposable pads, you’ll want plenty on hand.
6. Perineal Healing Spray
For quick relief after birth, perineal healing spray is a lifesaver. It cools, soothes, and reduces swelling in seconds, perfect for those sensitive areas that need extra care.
7. Sitz Bath and Salts
A sitz bath is a simple, soothing way to ease postpartum swelling and discomfort. Add sitz salts to warm water, soak for 15 minutes, and give yourself a moment of calm amidst the chaos.
💡 Tip: Pat yourself dry after—no rubbing!
8. Donut Pillow
Sitting can be a challenge after delivery, but a donut pillow takes the pressure off. It’s especially helpful if you’ve had stitches, and it doubles as support when breastfeeding.
9. Pain Relief
Your body’s been through a lot, and pain relief meds (like ibuprofen) help manage cramps, soreness, and those surprising afterbirth pains. Don’t forget stool softeners, your first postpartum bowel movement will thank you.
10. Hydration and Snacks
Breastfeeding, healing, and sleepless nights make it easy to forget to eat or drink. Keep a water bottle and easy snacks like nuts or granola bars nearby, your body needs the fuel!
Bonus Must-Haves for Your Postpartum Kit
What Should You Wear Postpartum?
Your body deserves comfort. Opt for soft, breathable clothing that’s gentle on sensitive skin and makes nursing easy.
How Can You Care for Your Mental Health?
Postpartum recovery isn’t just physical. Add self-care essentials like calming teas, a journal, or even a cosy blanket to your kit. And don’t hesitate to ask for help, from your loved ones or a professional.
FAQs About Postpartum Kits
How Long Will I Need My Postpartum Kit?
Most items will be essential for the first 6-8 weeks, but you’ll likely use things like nursing bras and belly bands for months.
What If I Forget Something?
Don’t stress! You can always order postpartum essentials from our online store, and we’ll get them to you quickly.
Getting Ready for Your Postpartum Journey
Recovering from birth is tough, but with the right postpartum kit, you’ll have everything you need to feel supported, comfortable, and cared for. From maternity pads to nipple cream, each item helps you focus on what really matters, your new baby and your well-being.
Need to stock up on postpartum essentials, nursing clothes, or recovery wear? Browse our full collection at Queen Bee, or reach out to our team at Customer Service, we’re here to help make your postpartum experience as smooth as possible.
You’ve got this, mama! 💕
ABOUT OUR CONTRIBUTOR:
Jenny Hart is a health and wellness writer with a passion for travel, cycling and books. So far, she's traveled to Ecuador, Costa Rica, Mexico, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Austria and Japan. When she isn't writing or traveling, she's traversing NYC with her two dogs Poochie and Ramone.
