Postpartum Essentials

These Postpartum Essentials will have you starting motherhood off on the right foot. We all too often only talk about what you need for BABY, so this post is only mama items. We’re talking nursing wear, down there care and snacks! 

After I had Canaan, my first baby, I focused a lot on Newborn Essentials. What did he need? What did we use the most with him? And although that’s 100% necessary, I’ve decided to really focus in on what a New Mom needs after giving birth, this time around. That postpartum time is super sensitive for mama and baby, and having a few key things at your disposal will help you feel a bit more prepared. And, yes, I plan on also doing another Newborn Essentials post for what we use the most with Easton, but for now, let’s jump into mama land!

First of all, comfortable nursing-friendly clothing is key. I’m talking, glorified (if not literal) pajamas. Having lots of comfy shorts, joggers, button-front tops and tanks around is what you’ll want. I LOVE these joggers (they’re insanely soft!), these joggers, this button up sleep top, and these shorts (I have them in 3 colors!). I actually wear the sleep shirt before bed, then quickly change into a thin tank top for bed, since hormone swings lead to extreme sweating in the middle of the night. But having a comfy, warm, easy- access top on up till bed is important.

Also a few nursing bras will be helpful. I have a few different styles but I mostly reach for this one or this one. Either way, you’ll want a good supply of breast pads for those first few weeks when your milk levels are still trying to figure themselves out (ie you’ll most likely leak through your shirt). 

When you get home from the hospital, I’d highly recommend wearing an abdominal binder. It helps you feel literally held together. I can’t attest for everyone, but I can say it helps my abs be retrained to brace together and also reduces my back pain, which is immense as my body is redistributing weight and points of balance. Seriously, having that extra help is crucial. This one is similar to the one I bought. 

Toiletries aren’t something we talk about too much out loud. But let’s just do it. From the second I gave birth and weeks afterwards, using this Earth Mama spray was a game-changer. Totally soothing and I’d gift it to any soon-to-be mama. I also love the Earth Mama deodorant. It doesn’t smell strongly of anything and ensures I don’t smell like anything…especially with all that night-sweating and barely showering. Isn’t being a new mom fun?!

You’ll probably go weeks between applications of mascara, but having a good face wash and skincare routine will be crucial. Why? Remember those pesky hormones? Well, you might wake up with a face that looks completely different than the one you went to bed with. Just being honest here. It’s important to use gentle products, don’t skip your routine, and drink a TON of water – your skin will have less of a shock if you keep those things steady. I love this face wash, this moisturizer, and this serum. These are the same I’ve talked about in my beauty posts! 

By your bed you’ll want a good lip balm and a nipple cream/balm. I love this lip balm, this nipple balm or this one. 

I’m a sugar fiend when I’m tired AF and hungry around the clock. I could eat Reese’s eggs all day if you let me. BUT having a variety of snacks in my bag and in my room (let’s face it, I’m only using a bag to go to pediatrician appointments right now) is lifesaving. I reach the most for: Larabars, Perfect Bars, KIND bars, RX Bars or if my kiddo is in a growth spurt, a good lactation granola bar like Oat Mama. Seriously, those Oat Mama bars are addictive, so watch out. 

And that’s my list! Hopefully you find some gems in here. I’d love to hear some of your new mommy favorites too! 

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