Ultimate Postpartum Essentials Checklist for Moms

Postpartum essentials are just as important as packing the hospital bag for baby.  For those of you who have been through the process of birth and recovery, you know.  

New mamas, I’m here to tell you that there are some products that will make the early days of the recovery process that much easier and more comfortable.  As I write this, I am gearing up to have my fifth child so this is a good reminder for me to stock up on some of these essentials as well!  

During the recovery period, set yourself up for success and good care at home with this Ultimate Postpartum Essentials Checklist for Mom. 

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List of Postpartum Essentials to Pack for the Hospital Recovery 

There is not a lot of items to pack for the hospital.  I have hospital deliveries, so I cannot speak for a birthing center but I assume they are similar in what supplies they carry for after birth.  Although you may not need a lot, it’s a good idea to pack a few things that the hospital doesn’t provide. 

• Nipple Cream – If you are planning to nurse, this is a must in my book!  This cream will help make the entire breastfeeding experience a little bit more comfortable and help with those sore nipples.  The hospital also provides a lactation consultant.  New mothers, take advantage of this service and don’t feel ashamed that it is not easy and may not come “naturally” the first time.  

• Healthy Snacks – The hospital does provide snacks and food.  I always pack extra.  Especially for those times in the middle of the night when you get hungry.  It’s also a good idea to pack a few of your husbands favorite snacks! 

• Comfortable Nursing Bra– Don’t forget to pack your nursing bra!  I suggest sizing up for comfort. 

• Comfortable Postpartum Clothes – That’s right, pack ultra comfortable clothes.  Sorry to break it to you, but after giving birth you will still fit into your maternity clothing.  Plan on packing comfortable maternity lounge clothes or a nursing friendly gown.  I always pack a robe for the hospital stay.  It can get chilly at night and a comfortable robe makes a difference. 

• Boppy or Nursing Pillow – Personally, this is an essential item to pack.  A supportive nursing pillow is so comfortable for you and baby.  You will be spending a lot of time nursing.  It is worth the investment.

What Postpartum Recovery Essentials the Hospital Does Provide 

The hospital provides a lot of postpartum care items.  Don’t hesitate to ask for more before heading home.  A good rule of thumb is to ask if there is an extra charge for any of these items.

• Peri Bottle – Don’t buy one for home. Use the peri bottle the hospital gives you for those early postpartum days. 

• Ice Packs – Yes, you can ask to bring one home from the hospital.

• Postpartum Pads – If you had a vaginal delivery, take advantage of bringing home the large maxi pads the hospital provides.  This can get you a few days down the road to recovery before you break into your home stash. 

• Disposable Underwear – Ask for extra!  Disposable postpartum underwear from the hospital is a necessity to have during that first week of home recovery.

• Diapers –  Yep, you read that right.  Ask to bring home extra newborn diapers.  It never hurts to have an extra stash for your newborn baby.  

• Large Water Bottle – Good news, the hospital will let you bring this water bottle home!  If you don’t end up using it and have children at home, they sure will. I think the hospital water bottle is basically the first (plastic) edition of a Stanley Thirst Quencher! 

Postpartum Essentials for Home

• Pads 

• Witch Hazel Pads (I would say this is totally optional, but some mothers highly recommend). 

• Large Underwear or Maternity Underwear 

• Epsom Salt 

• Cold Packs 

• Heating Pads 

• Comfortable Clothing 

• Stool Softener 

• Ibuprofen for pain relief (consult your doctor if breastfeeding). 

• Nursing Pads – I discovered these after I had my first child and prefer washable nursing pads to the disposable ones.  To me they are much more comfortable and can be used over and over again. 

Extras 

Planning to pump?  Even if you’re not, a pump is a great option to have on hand.  Many insurances cover a breast pump.  This is something worth looking into before your due date. 

A nurse once told me a trick to making a DIY cold pack. She said to take a sanitary pad, soak it in water and then put it in the freezer. Pull it out when it’s chilled and there you go! A DIY cold pack.

Amazon Postpartum Shoppable Essentials

Getting ready for baby? Check out my post Best Baby Product Must Haves for New Moms. Packing your hospital bag? Read my post, Ultimate Hospital Delivery Bag Checklist for Moms.

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