Best Postpartum Must-Haves for New Moms

Here are my top postpartum must-haves from one mom to another that helped me survive postpartum healing. It's such a difficult time as it is so here is my list!

By: Anna

3/13/2025

best postpartum items for mom
best postpartum items for mom

1. Postpartum Underwear and Padsicles

Why it’s essential: Postpartum recovery is messy, and having the right tools for comfort and healing can make all the difference. High-waisted, breathable underwear and soothing padsicles can ease discomfort and promote healing.

My pick: Surprisingly my favorite items were the hospital-provided ice pads and disposable underwear—comfortable, practical, and cost-effective. Take as many home as you can when you are discharged. DIY padsicles with witch hazel and aloe vera were lifesavers. Honey Pot pads were soothing and offered great relief!

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check: 5/5
DIY padsicles,
breathable underwear and hospital supplies are game-changers. While some Frida Mom products fell short for me, other parents might find them helpful. Test different options to see what works for you.

2. Nipple Butter Cream

Why it’s essential: Breastfeeding can take a toll on your nipples, and a soothing balm like Earth Mama’s Nipple Butter helped with cracking, soreness, and dryness. It’s safe for both you and your baby.

My pick: Earth Mama Nipple Butter was a lifesaver for pain relief after nursing and pumping, with natural, organic ingredients that felt gentle and effective.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check: 5/5
This is a game-changer. Affordable, effective, and safe, it’s a must-have for nursing moms.

3. Peri Bottle

Why it’s essential: Postpartum recovery involves healing from perineal trauma, and a peri bottle offers gentle, pain-free cleaning after using the restroom minimizing pain without having to touch anything.

My pick: The Frida Mom Peribottle, with its angled neck, was far easier to use than the standard hospital-provided version.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check: 5/5
The
Frida Mom Peribottle is a practical upgrade that makes postpartum recovery a little less daunting.

4. Sitz Bath with Salts

Why it’s essential: A sitz bath provides soothing relief for perineal pain, swelling, and also tears. Use the bath with salts can enhance healing and bring more relief.

My pick: The Amazon sitz bath and Sitz Bath Soaking Blend were both affordable and effective, providing much-needed comfort during recovery.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check: 5/5
Affordable, easy to use, and incredibly soothing. A sitz bath setup is a postpartum essential.

5. Stool Softener

Why it’s essential: Postpartum constipation is painful and scary, especially after a vaginal delivery and any tearing that came with it. Stool softeners help make bowel movements easier and less painful during the recovery period.

My pick: Any basic over-the-counter stool softener does the trick. It’s a small thing that makes a huge difference in recovery. Colace Clear did the trick for me.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check: 5/5
Cheap, effective, and a lifesaver for postpartum recovery. Don’t skip this one!

6. Belly Serum

Why it’s essential: Postpartum skin needs extra care, and these organic products hydrate, soothe, and help prevent stretch marks.

My pick: The 8 Sheep Organics products were a treat. The Immortelle Balm kept my skin hydrated, the True Belly Serum helped my belly recover without stretch marks, and the Sleepy Body Lotion provided much-needed relaxation.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check: 5/5
Effective anti-stretch mark serum! It worked so well for me.

7. Electrolytes

Why it’s essential: Staying hydrated is critical for postpartum recovery and milk supply. Nectar Electrolytes make hydration simple and effective without all the added coloring and extra stuff other electrolyte brands have.

My pick: Nectar Hydration Packets were convenient, easy to use, and a refreshing way to stay hydrated throughout the day. I mixed it with my water in the mornings and consumes as the morning went along.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check: 5/5
A great addition to your postpartum recovery kit, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Convenient and effective.

8. Nipple Pads

Why it’s essential: Breastfeeding can leave your nipples sore, cracked, and chafed. Hydrogel pads provide cooling relief and help speed up healing.

My pick: The Frida Mom Hydrogel Nipple Pads were soothing and easy to use. They provided immediate relief, though I sometimes alternated with frozen peas for extra cooling!

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check: 4/5
A reliable and convenient product for nursing moms. While not essential, it’s a worthwhile splurge for extra comfort.

9. A Good Pumping/Nursing Bra

Why it’s essential: A comfortable, functional nursing bra makes breastfeeding or pumping much more convenient.

My pick: The Lupanette Hands-Free Nursing Bra was a great fit for both pumping and nursing. It was comfortable, supportive, and easy to use. I also absolutely loved the Momcozy seamless nursing bra which was great to use with a wearable pump. I recommend that you try both!

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check: 5/5
A good nursing bra is a necessity, but finding the right fit might take some trial and error. When you find the right one, it’ll make a huge difference in your daily routine.

I wish someone would have recommended these items before I became a mom. Hopefully you can take advantage of my experience. Stay strong mom!