Welcoming a new baby into the world is a beautiful, life-changing experience, but it also comes with its share of challenges, especially during those first few weeks of recovery. From sleepless nights to healing bodies, both mom and baby need extra care and support. Whether you're a first-time parent or adding another little one to your family, having the right postpartum recovery essentials on hand can make all the difference. In this post, we’ve rounded up 20 postpartum must haves that will help soothe, support, and simplify life for both you and your newborn. Let’s dive in and set you up for a smoother, more comfortable transition into this next chapter.
How Can I Prepare a Postpartum Essentials Checklist for the Hospital?
Creating a postpartum checklist can make the transition from hospital to home more seamless. Start early, around 35–37 weeks into your pregnancy, so you’re not scrambling at the last–minute. A postpartum essentials checklist should cover both mom and baby’s immediate needs for hospital and home such as:
- Practical must-haves like your birth plan and insurance info
- Hygiene and recovery gear you won’t want to forget.
- Comfort items such as a nursing pillow and your favorite snacks.
- Prepping your home with frozen meals.
- Outfits for you (nursing-friendly if that’s how you’re planning to feed baby) and baby post-birth.
Think of this list as a safety net to help you transition from delivery to daily life with ease.
Postpartum Recovery Essentials for Mom
Whether you have a vaginal birth or C-section, recovery takes time and support. Here are eight postpartum recovery essentials must-haves for your hospital stay and the early weeks at home:
1. Postpartum Pads or Underwear
After birth you will experience postpartum discharge called lochia (this is a mix of mucous, tissue, and blood from your uterus). This can last for up to 6 weeks. You can either use pads (like larger versions of the pads used to collect menstrual blood) or specially designed disposable underwear. There are pros and cons of each, but many people find disposable underwear easier to manage.
2. Peri Bottle
Stretching and bending to reach your lower body may be difficult for a while after giving birth, and you should avoid wiping with toilet paper during this time. An upside-down peri bottle can make cleanup gentle and effective by directing a flow of warm water over you to help suppress any discomfort from urine and keep you clean. Pro tip: mix in some witch hazel to help soothe any discomfort, reduce swelling and promote healing.
3. Reusable Hot & Cold Gel Pack
Our reusable hot & cold gel pack can be used in many ways to help support your postpartum healing. Cold packs help reduce inflammation and swelling, while heat packs promote blood flow and muscle relaxation.
4. Nipple Care & Nursing Supplies
If you’re planning to breast/chestfeed baby then this is another area where preparation can make all the difference. You may experience leaking of either colostrum or your milk once it comes in so pads or cups are a great idea and it’s a good idea to include some nipple balm in case of any pain or discomfort. And don’t forget a good nursing bra and/or tank tops for easy access while you’re getting to grips with nursing.
5. Comfortable Loungewear
Wondering what to wear postpartum in the hospital? Choose loose-fitting, breathable outfits like a robe, nursing-friendly tops, and soft joggers. Then, when you feel like you need some support, postpartum shorts or leggings can help do exactly this, pair them with a nursing bra and/or tank top if you’re breast/chestfeeding. Hospital floors can be cold and slippery and the last thing you want to do is take a tumble heading to the bathroom or carrying baby. Include socks with grips when packing your clothes to help keep you steady when you’re carrying precious cargo.
6. Supportive Belly Wrap
A belly wrap can make the world of difference to your postpartum healing. It supports and strengthens core muscles weakened during pregnancy, eases back pain and helps promote mobility and encourages better posture which is especially important during breast/chestfeeding.
7. Toiletry Bag
The number one thing on the list is a good moisturizer. And if a full face of makeup helps you feel your best then pack everything you need for it - this is all about your comfort and confidence. You might also want to pack any medications or vitamins you take regularly, along with postpartum essentials like hemorrhoid cream, stool softeners, or healing products such as belly tightening cream or C-section scar defense - especially if you have a specific type of birth in mind. Think of your bag as a mix of practicality and self-care.
8. Healthy Snacks and Hydration
Keep water and nourishing snacks nearby. Recovery takes energy and hydration is key. This is especially important if you're breast/chestfeeding.
And don’t forget a bag to put it all in. Something that can keep items organized so they’re easy to grab with one hand and without having to rummage will save you time and energy. And make sure whoever is coming to the hospital with you knows where everything is too, that way they can help fetch things quickly and easily when you need them.
Pro tip: The ready-made Postpartum Bundles and Kits and C-Section Bundles and Kits from Belly Bandit includes many of the postpartum recovery essentials mentioned above all in one place! Each postpartum recovery kit was designed with comfort and safety in mind for a gentle journey after birth.
Postpartum Must-Haves for Baby
When it’s time to head to the hospital, you’ll want to feel calm, prepared, and ready to meet your little one. While the hospital will provide a few baby essentials, having your own carefully packed bag makes those first hours and days more comfortable and personal. Here’s a postpartum essentials checklist for baby - plus a few tips you’ll be glad you knew ahead of time.
9. Going-Home Outfit (or Two)
Pick something soft, comfy, and weather-appropriate for baby’s first trip home. It’s a big milestone and a great photo op! Pack a backup in case of any messes.
10. Newborn Onesies & Sleepers (2–3)
Comfy and easy to get on and off/change baby’s diaper in are the most important criteria for baby’s first outfits. Cozy onesies or knotted gowns are great choices for those early cuddles and first pictures.
11. Swaddle or Blanket
A soft muslin or swaddler can help your newborn feel secure and warm. Hospitals provide blankets, but many parents like bringing their own for comfort, photos, or to pop over baby to keep them warm on the car ride home (just beware of overheating!).
12. Hat & Scratch Mittens
Newborns lose heat quickly, so a little hat keeps them warm post-birth. Scratch mittens (or onesies with fold-over sleeves) protect their delicate skin from accidental scratches.
13. Diapers
Many hospitals supply these, but it's good to bring a few diapers in newborn sizes, especially if you prefer a specific brand or an eco-friendly option. If you’re planning to do cloth/reusable diapers, then make sure your supplies are all put together ready and waiting for you.
14. Wipes
Again, hospitals usually provide these, but sensitive-skin wipes can be gentler and less irritating for brand-new baby bums. Or you can use cotton balls dipped in warm water for a really gentle option.
15. Formula (If Using)
If you’re planning to feed baby formula then bring what you’ll need for the duration of your stay. You can also bring pacifiers if you’re planning to use them. Some babies are soothed by sucking right away, though not every baby will need or want one.
16. Car Seat (Installed & Ready to Go!)
This is a non-negotiable - you won’t be allowed to leave the hospital without a properly installed infant car seat. Practice ahead of time so you feel confident buckling baby in.
17. A Cute Photo Prop or Name Sign (Optional)
If you’d like to capture a special “welcome to the world” photo, bring a small sign, milestone card, or soft toy. Totally optional, but fun to have!
And then here are some postpartum must haves to have ready at home:
18. Baby Carrier
You can bring your baby carrier or wrap to the hospital but make sure it’s ready to go at home if not. When you need to be hands free, a carrier is a must-have for bonding and soothing. Find your perfect carrier.
19. Bouncer
The Evolve 3-in-1 Bouncer is a safe spot for baby while you shower, eat, or rest. It transitions from newborn lounger to toddler seat and comes with an ergonomic newborn insert.
20. Newborn-Ready Stroller
If you plan on walking with baby right away, our Metro 3 Compact Stroller is newborn-ready and supports infant car seats with an adapter available separately.
Keep these items separate to yours, it will make life easier in the hospital. If you already have a diaper bag for baby, then it might be a great time for its first outing! They usually have plenty of different pockets and storage areas to keep everything well organized.
Postpartum Recovery Essentials – Baby we’re ready for you!
The postpartum period is a powerful, transformative time full of learning, healing, and bonding. While it can feel overwhelming, having the right tools and essentials on hand helps ease the transition and lets you focus on what matters most: caring for your baby and yourself. Whether you're prepping your hospital bag or setting up your home for those early weeks, every thoughtful item you pack is one less thing for your future self to think about. You've got this, and with the right postpartum recovery essentials and support, recovery can be more comfortable, calm, and even empowering. Here's to your postpartum journey; one step, one cuddle, and one deep breath at a time, and for more support during your fourth trimester, visit our postpartum collection.