What to Buy for After Birth, the Newborn Phase, and Postpartum

During my pregnancy, I was completely overwhelmed by the seemingly endless list of baby products available, and while I knew the basics, I found it challenging to discern what would truly be essential.

Beyond the obvious necessities, I yearned for guidance on the items that would make my journey into motherhood smoother. It was a time of excitement mixed with uncertainty, as I navigated through aisles and online stores, eager to be fully prepared for my baby's arrival.

Since I’ve been on this path with two children now, I decided to make an epic list of what to buy for postpartum containing items that made a significant impact during those precious moments. These are the tried-and-true products that stood the test of time, serving me well through thick and thin.

Some were smart, proactive purchases, while others became urgent necessities I wish I had from the start. I will guide you through a carefully chosen list of essentials in this article, providing cost-effective alternatives for some pricier items.

Focused entirely on you, the first section of this curated list emphasizes items that will be essential during your initial months of motherhood and postpartum care.

• To Wear: It's important to be comfortable, have easy access to your boobs, and be ready for postpartum physical care. It's also a plus to have stuff that looks cute.
• To Eat/Drink: Other than grocery items, these finds were essential to me postpartum.
• Birth Aftercare: Items specifically chosen to aid in your recovery and comfort after giving birth.
• Breastfeeding Basics: If you choose to breastfeed, these are the essentials that will support you in that journey.

The second section transitions to all the must-haves for your newborn, stripped back to just the essentials.

• Diapers & Changing*: Everything you need for diapering and keeping baby clean, except the diapers
• Feeding: Whether you're breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a mix of both, these are the feeding essentials.
• For Sleeping: Products to ensure your baby has a safe and comfortable sleep.
• Stroller Stuff: Essentials for when you're on the move with your little one.
• House Stuff: Items that will make your home more baby-ready and safe.
• Health Care: Essential health care items to keep your baby happy and healthy.
• Sentimental: A few special items to cherish these precious moments.

*Note on Baby Clothes & Diapers: Baby clothes and diapers have been intentionally left off this list as they are a personal choice and are often given as gifts.

After having a baby, the physical, mental, and emotional toll of postpartum makes you really just want to waddle around the house in anything comfortable.

If you're breastfeeding your baby, easy access to your boobs is of utmost importance, so make sure your lounge wear has a way to open at the chest to get those ta-tas out.

I survived those first few months wearing house dresses daily that were cute enough to also roll up at Trader Joe's or if a friend stopped by.

Don't forget a stack of disposable undies to handle all the mess that will be going on “down there”. Having plenty of them is nice to that you can dispose and refresh a few times a day. 

• Nesting Olive Modern House Dress for Postpartum, Nursing, Chilling, and Going Outside
  • PROS: The buttons make it easy to get your boobs out for nursing or pumping, the fabric is SUPER soft. There's plenty of fabric at the bottom to tie a knot for cute “going out in public” look.
  • CONS: Runs a little pricey, but they wash really well. The solid prints show stains more easily.
• Nursing Bralette with Padding for Breast Feeding and Milk Leaks
  • PROS: No underwire, not too tight, and has clips that to fold down for nursing or pumping. I found this one to be my favorite out of the 10+ bras I wore. The padding is great for containing milk leaks so they don't go through onto your clothes.
  • CONS: Not the cutest bra, but I feel like this doesn't really matter anyway. Might not be the best for very large breasts due to questionable support.
• Frida Mom Disposable Postpartum Underwear Boyshorts
  • PROS: Disposable for convenience; boyshort cut provides full coverage and comfort. Marketed as postpartum underwear so you don't feel weird that you're wearing an incontinence product.
  • CONS: Pricier than incontinence products that basically do the same thing. Disposable.
• Always Postpartum Disposable Underwear, Size Small/Medium
  Always Postpartum Disposable Underwear Size Large
  • PROS: Cheaper than the Frida Mom ones and does the job.
  • CONS: Marketed for incontinence so might be embarrassing to buy

Note: Remember to consider your personal preferences and needs when making your choices!

You've probably heard that you should meal prep, start a meal train, or get some nice frozen goodies so that during postpartum you need to worry less about meals and more about baby (and yourself).

This is true, but these 3 things were a life saver and I discovered them only after I was a couple of months in.

• Munchkin® Milkmakers® Lactation Cookie Bites, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip, 10 Ct
  • PROS: Very delicious, requires zero effort, on-the-go snack for nursing mothers, designed to support lactation.
  • CONS: More expensive than baking from scratch, contains allergens and milk and may not be suitable for everyone.
• Pink Stork Total Postnatal Vitamins for Women with Vegan DHA, Iron, Folate, and Vitamin B12, Postpartum Recovery Essentials
  • PROS: Provides essential vitamins and nutrients for postpartum recovery and breastfeeding; vegan-friendly.
  • CONS: Be sure to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
• Organic Mother's Milk Tea, Promotes Healthy Lactation, Breastfeeding Support
  • PROS: Organic and non-GMO; specifically formulated to support breast milk production.
  • CONS: Taste may not be appealing to everyone; consider adding honey or lemon to enhance flavor.

Note: Remember to prioritize your health and consult with healthcare professionals as needed!

Postpartum physical recovery is rough any way you cut it. These products saved me and made the recovery process easier. I did try quite a few brands and these were the ones I liked the best.

Tip: Having all the coochie-care in each bathroom will make your life a lot easier so you don't need to go to your bedroom during the day, or to your other bathroom at night.

 Note: These are tailored for a natural birth, but can be used for C-section births as well.

• Pink Stork Postpartum Sitz Bath Soak 1lb: Dead Sea Salt for Perineal Care & Cleansing
  • PROS: Natural ingredients with Dead Sea Salt for gentle perineal care; aids in the healing process. Cute pink bag.
  • CONS: I took a lot of baths and this is a smaller bag. A lot of salt is required for a sitz bath.
• Sitz Bath Soak 2-Lbs Sitz Salt Epsom Salt Hemorrhoid Soothing with Pure Essential Oils in BPA Free Pouch
  • PROS: Large quantity for extended use; includes pure essential oils for additional soothing properties.
  • CONS: Essential oils may not be suitable for all skin types; test on a small area first.
• TUCKS Medicated Cooling Pads, 100 Count – Pads with Witch Hazel
  • PROS: Provides immediate relief and reduces inflammation; convenient and easy to use.
  • CONS: It does sting, but it helps heal. Ensure compatibility with your skin type to prevent irritation
• Lansinoh 4% Lidocaine Perineal Spray, Pain Relief for Postpartum Care
  • PROS: Fast-acting pain relief with easy application; free from parabens, fragrances, and preservatives.
  • CONS: Always follow the directions for use and consult with a healthcare provider if unsure.
• Popped Peri Bottle for Postpartum Care Coochie Spray Bottle
  • PROS: Ergonomic design has an upside-down nozzle so your hoo-ha is easier to spray/clean/soothe.
  • CONS: You might get a free upright nozzle one at the hospital
• Postpartum Recovery Essentials Kit  Includes PERI Bottle, Herbal Cooling Spray, Herbal Cooling Liners, Hot & Cold Packs, Disposable Underwear
  • PROS: Comprehensive kit with everything needed for postpartum care; convenient and practical.
  • CONS: This might be more expensive than buying everything separately, plus less customization options here. Quantity of underwear might not be sufficient.
• Bed Buddy Neck Warmer Microwaveable Heating Pad
  • PROS: You might be sore after birth and having one of these handy can be very helpful to soothe sore muscle. Doesn't have any cords that can be irritating when you're holding a baby.
  • CONS: Needs to be reheated in the microwave

Note: These products are specifically chosen to aid in your postpartum recovery, providing comfort and support during this tender time. Prioritize your well-being and do not hesitate to seek professional advice if needed.

If you do not plan on breastfeeding, that is A-OK! Please skip this section and move along.

These babies helped me SO much during those first few days of nipple trauma. When your baby is first born, your nipples still need to be broken in.. and by broken, I mean quite literally.

The nipple butter soothes but if there's leftover on there it's okay for baby to ingest. The gel pads felt like pure heaven and helped me heal faster. And the diaper caddy helped me keep aaallll my milking supplies together and easy to transport around the house.

• Organic Nipple Butter™ Breastfeeding Cream by Earth Mama | Lanolin-free
  • PROS: Safe for your baby to consume, organic and lanolin-free, providing safe and natural relief for sore nipples
  • CONS: It's oily/vasoline-y and can stain your clothing if you don't wear something underneath
• Medela Soothing Gel Pads for Sore, Cracked Nipples
  • PROS: Provides instant cooling relief and protection for sore nipples; reusable and convenient for on-the-go use.
  • CONS: Ensure proper care and cleaning of the pads to maintain hygiene and effectiveness.
• Parker Baby Diaper or Breastfeeding Supply Caddy
  • PROS: Versatile and portable storage solution for all your breastfeeding essentials; stylish and practical design.
  • CONS: Ensure that the size and compartments suit your specific needs for organization, not as easy to clean as something plastic.

Note: Remember, every mother's experience is unique, so choose the products that best suit your individual needs. Don't hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for additional support.

Diapers might feel like the worst part of having a new bundle of joy, but it's, in fact, the easiest part about having a baby. That being said, having some great diapering products will make the job even easier. 

Don't forget to buy a stack of diapers from the grocery store or Costco, but don't stock up on too many of the same size because babies GROW FAST!

• Diaper Genie Diaper Pail with Antimicrobial Odor Control
  • PROS: Helps control odor with antimicrobial technology; easy to use and keeps diapers contained. Diaper refills for these found everywhere.
  • CONS: Requires specific refill bags, as do all of these pails.
• Amazon Brand - Mama Bear Diaper Pail Refills for Diaper Genie Pails
  • PROS: Compatible with Diaper Genie pails; economical bulk purchase option. Cheaper than the Diaper Genie brand.
  • CONS: Limited to use with Diaper Genie products. Have to buy them on Amazon.
• Munchkin® Secure Grip™ Contoured Baby Diaper Changing Pad for Dresser, Waterproof
  • PROS: Contoured sides and safety strap keep baby secure; waterproof and easy to clean. Turn any dresser or surface into a changing station
  • CONS: Can move around if not securely fastened
• Burt's Bees Baby - Organic Jersey Changing Pad Cover
  • PROS: Made from 100% organic cotton; soft and gentle on baby’s skin; easy to wash, neutral color
  • CONS: Ensure proper fit with your specific changing pad.
• BlueSnail Quilted Thicker Waterproof Changing Pad Liners, 3 Count
  • PROS: Waterproof, reusable, extra thick and absorbent, can be used to change baby anywhere
  • CONS: May require frequent washing with heavy use.
• Portable/Travel Diaper Changing Pad, Waterproof & Low-Profil
  • PROS: Portable and convenient for on-the-go diaper changes; waterproof and easy to clean. Thin so it fits easily in a bag
  • CONS: Smaller size may be less suitable as baby grows.

Each of these products has been selected to ensure that your diaper changing station is well-equipped and functional. Remember to choose items that best fit your lifestyle and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and convenient

experience for both you and your baby.

Nursing actually really doesn't take a lot of supplies. Main ingredients: your boob and your baby. 

That being said, with spit-up and bottle-feeding being potentially around the corner, these are some essentials that worked many, many months in my house.

• Philips Avent Natural Baby Bottle Newborn Starter Gift Set
  • PROS: Encourages natural latch, various bottle sizes included, anti-colic valve, great starter kit for new parents
  • CONS: Some babies may prefer a different nipple shape.
• Drool & Breastfeeding Muslin Bibs for Small Babies 10 Pieces
  • PROS: Nice and small for smaller babies, meant for spit-up. Adjustable size, soft material, highly absorbent.
  • CONS: May shrink after washing.
• Burt's Bees Baby Burp Cloths Extra Absorbent Organic Cotton (For Girls)
• Burt's Bees Baby Burp Cloths Extra Absorbent Organic Cotton (For Boys)
  • PROS: Extra absorbent to handle a lot of spit-up, super soft and wash well
  • CONS: Some designs may fade after multiple washes.

Okay, so maybe not restful sleep, but setting up a good sleep environment for your newborn is crucial to laying a good foundation for later.  These are my top picks for baby sleep. 

Side note: I only started using my crib when I felt like the bassinet was unsafe because it was too shallow.  The noise machine I took with me everywhere and now I can't sleep without one myself. 

And Lord, I STILL don't know how to swaddle so make velcro your friend.

• LectroFan White Noise Machine with 20 Fan and White Noise Sounds
  • PROS: 20 unique sounds, sleep timer feature, high quality audio, drowns out other sounds
  • CONS: Simple, doesn't have any lights
• Baby Bassinet Wedge Pillow for UNDER Mattress for Reflux.
  • PROS: Helps alleviate reflux symptoms, removable and washable cover, goes under a crib mattress for safety
  • CONS: Some research shows a flat surface is best
• Baby Bassinet Bedside Sleeper with Wheels Mattress and Storage Shelf
  • PROS: Easy to assemble and move, adjustable height, comes with storage shelf
  • CONS: Only useful until baby can sit up
• SwaddleMe Original Swaddle 3-Pack for 0-3 Months
  • PROS: Much easier than using a blanket to swaddle, 3-pack because these get dirty easily with spit-up
  • CONS: May be outgrown quickly.
• Egg Night Light for Nursery Tap On Dimmable with Charging Pad
  • PROS: Easy to use and move around, adjustable brightness, rechargeable.
  • CONS: Light may not be as strong as other night lights, limited color options.

Strollers are an entirely different ballgame and a very long article can be written about them entirely. There are SO many to choose from and it's a very personal thing. 

BUT, some extra stroller accessories can make your life easier because no stroller has absolutely everything.

• OXO Handy Stroller Hook for Extra Bags
  • PROS: Perfect for extra shopping bags or items. Easy to attach, holds a good amount of weight, versatile use.
  • CONS: May slide down on some stroller handles if not secured properly.

Other than baby toys which you will probably get a plethora of at your baby shower, these were my most-used items postpartum. 

A bouncer is KEY because sometimes you just want to put baby down and you want to do it safely. 

Also, I cannot overemphasize the convenience of plates you can throw away when you'd prefer to binge trash TV on Netflix.

• Baby Bjorn Bouncer Balance in Beige
• Baby Bjorn Bouncer Balance in Light Pink
• Baby Bjorn Bouncer Balance in Grey
• Baby Bjorn Bouncer Balance in Light Blue
  • PROS: Ergonomic design, machine washable, helps develop balance and motor skills. Folds up small
  • CONS: Higher price point compared to other bouncers.
• Baby Delight Bouncer Baby Bjorn Knock Off Cost Effective
  • PROS: Lightweight, easy to move around, budget-friendly.
  • CONS: May not have as many features or durability as higher-end models, limited use period.
• Compostable Heavy Duty Plates Pack of 100
  • PROS: Way less dishes, can handle the weight of a nice big plate of food, better for the environment
  • CONS: More expensive than non-compostable, not really classy

Get this while pregnant so you can quickly take those little prints and keep them forever! Babies grow SO fast so don't be like me and only take them at 7 months.

Side Note: I did end up buying one of those baby books where you write out stuff about your baby. Having another thing to DO ended up not being in line with my goals…which was sleep.

• Cherished Memories Hand and Footprint Keepsake Kit
  • PROS: Easy to use, non-toxic and safe for infants
  • CONS: Imprint material may dry quickly; must work swiftly.

These items I ended up buying when my baby got sick, and when you're worried about your baby the last thing you want to do is wait for something you need to make them feel better.

• Non-Invasive Quick-Read Baby Forehead Thermometer
  • PROS: Non-contact design reduces germ spread, less intrusive, quick reading, easy to use
  • CONS: May be pricier than traditional thermometers.
• Infant Tylenol with Syringe, Dye-Free
  View Product
  • PROS: Dye-free; no artificial colors ingested.
  • CONS: Suitable only for infants and toddlers, Taste may be disliked, making administration difficult.
• Frida Baby NoseFrida Nasal Aspirator Snot Sucker
  • PROS: Safe, effective way to clear baby’s nasal passages. Easy to clean and maintain. Reusable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly.
  • CONS: May distress some babies. Manual suction required, which some parents may find off-putting.