There are countless blogs and guides to all the things you need as a new mama, the hardest part is refining these into a list that’s relevant to you and your budget. For those more extravagant purchases, baby shower registries are a go-er. Your great Auntie Faye might surprise you with her generosity and style-forward thinking if you’re lucky! For everything else, you’ve got the internet, right? But what about those things that no one mentions, the things that you don’t realise you need until those annoying, sometimes sticky, messy, awkwardly-reaching-across-things moments. Well, we asked the Mama Style community what the things they couldn’t have lived without that no one told them at the time. Do you have any to add? Let us know in the comments.
Topics
1. Pregnancy Pillow
These pillows provide crucial support for your changing body, helping to alleviate discomfort during sleep. They align your spine, hips, and knees, reducing pressure points and ensuring you get the restful sleep you need during pregnancy. “I thought they were a scam but mine has been a LIFESAVER.”
Momcozy Pregnancy Pillows For Sleeping Grey
2. Adult Diapers
Ideal for postpartum recovery, offering convenience and protection against leaks. These diapers provide reliable absorbency, allowing new moms to focus on their recovery and their newborns without worrying about accidental leaks. “Adult diapers…Trust me they’re SO much better.”
Depend Fresh Protection Adult Incontinence & Postpartum Bladder Leak Blush
Amazon Basics Incontinence & Postpartum Underwear For Women Lavender
3. Maternity and Nursing Bras
Supportive and comfortable, these bras adjust to your changing body and make breastfeeding easier. They provide easy access for nursing while offering the necessary support to prevent discomfort and sagging. “Bought a lot of nursing bras and button-down shirts. My fave is the the soft nursing bra from Boob Design.”
Comfort zone nursing bra Latte
Essential Maternity And Nursing Bra White
4. Silver Nursing Cups
Silver nursing cups help soothe and protect sore nipples during breastfeeding. Their natural antimicrobial properties promote healing and prevent infections, offering a safe and effective solution for breastfeeding discomfort.
Koala Babycare The Original Silver Nursing Cups
5. Haakaa Breast Pump
This silicone pump is simple to use and effective at collecting breast milk while nursing. It creates gentle suction to express milk efficiently, making it a great option for on-the-go or when you need a quick pumping session. “Also use a Haakaa and the Boon Trove milk catcher daily.”
Haakaa Manual Breast Pump For Breastfeeding
6. Witch Hazel Pads
Great for soothing postpartum vaginal soreness and hemorrhoid relief. These pads provide cooling comfort and help reduce swelling and inflammation, promoting faster healing after childbirth.
“Witch hazel pads for PP care, absolutely a postpartum must-have.”
T.N. Dickinson’S Witch Hazel Cleansing Pads
7. Freezer Meals
Having ready-to-eat meals can save a lot of time and energy when you’re too tired to cook. Stocking up on nutritious, homemade freezer meals ensures you have healthy options readily available during the demanding postpartum period.
8. Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you are breastfeeding. A large, durable water bottle can be your best friend, ensuring you maintain optimal hydration. It’s even better if it has a straw so you can drink while lying in bed. “A massive water bottle for yourself to carry around.”
Owala Freesip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle With Straw Marshmallow
Better if it has a straw so you can still drinking while lying in bed.
9. Maternity Underwear
Comfortable, roomy underwear that can hold pads securely in place postpartum. These undies are extremely stretchy and breathable, and they can be worn after a C-section with a pad in between as they are a bit high-rise. “The maternity underwear was a game-changer when I finally bought some.”
Period & Leak-Proof Full Brief, Light – Moderate, Black
10. SRC Health Recovery garments
Investing in recovery garments is essential for supporting your body’s healing process, whether you’ve had a C-section or a natural birth. They provide gentle compression to help reduce swelling and support your abdominal muscles.
“My SRC Health leggings helped me feel like a human being again.”
SRC Recovery Shorts
Ultimate SRC Postpartum Recovery Pack
11. Compression Socks
Help reduce swelling and improve circulation during pregnancy. These socks are particularly beneficial for preventing varicose veins and easing discomfort in your legs and feet during and after pregnancy.
“Compression socks… I had to get help putting them on but they’re great.”
Premium Maternity Compression Socks (2-Pack) Soft Pink Grey Heather
12. Belly oil
Belly oil not only helps prevent stretch marks but also promotes relaxation and self-care. The act of massaging your belly with nourishing oils can be a soothing ritual that enhances your connection with your changing body.
“When you need a touch of luxe, try the Basq essentials kit. Can’t recommend enough.”
9 Month Stretch Essentials Kit White
13. Nipple Cream
Essential for soothing and healing irritated nipples due to breastfeeding. Applying nipple cream regularly can prevent cracks and soreness, making breastfeeding a more comfortable experience.
“I use lanolin for sore nipples, it’s been a lifesaver.”
Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream
14. Perineal Ice Packs
These provide cooling relief and reduce swelling after a vaginal delivery. Designed to fit comfortably in your underwear, they help ease pain and speed up recovery by minimizing inflammation.
“SRC Health products were designed with the help of an obstetrician so you know they know what works.”
SRC Relief Femme-Eze Perineum Ice & Heat Packs
15. Baby Safety Mirror
Keep an eye on your baby while driving without turning around. This mirror allows you to monitor your baby’s safety and comfort in the car seat, reducing anxiety and ensuring a safer drive.
“Having the mirror there makes car trips so much less stressful!”
Shynerk Baby Car Mirror Black
16. Car Sunshades
Protect your baby from harmful UV rays while in the car, ensuring a cooler and more comfortable ride. These shades help your baby sleep better and longer during road trips by blocking out bright sunlight.
Kinder Fluff Car Window Shade (4Pack) Black
17. Portable Changing Mat
Soft, stylish, and angled for comfort, making diaper changes easier wherever you are. A portable changing mat like the Kopi baby mat also has room for all your essentials, ensuring you’re always prepared.
Portable Diaper Changing Pad Grey
18. Camera for nursery
A high-quality camera ensures you can monitor your baby with clear images and sound. This peace of mind allows you to keep a close watch on your baby without disturbing their sleep. We love the CuboAI for its great features and cute photos in the morning.
19. Bassinet with Wheels
A portable bassinet that can be moved around the house for ease. This allows you to keep your baby close by while you go about your daily activities, providing convenience and flexibility.
Ingenuity Dream & Grow Bedside Baby Bassinet Dalton
20. Bathtime Temperature Checker
Ensures the bath water is at a safe temperature for your little one. This tool helps prevent accidental burns and ensures a comfortable bathing experience for your baby.
Dreambaby Duck Baby Bath Thermometer
21. Hanging Bath Toy Holder
Keeps toys organized and the tub clutter-free. This holder helps maintain a neat bathroom and ensures that bath toys are easily accessible and dry between uses.
Tub Cubby Original Bath Toy Storage
22. Nose Cleaner
Effective at clearing baby’s nasal passages gently and efficiently. A nasal aspirator helps your baby breathe easier, especially during colds, reducing fussiness and discomfort.
“The baby nasal aspirator tool omg it has saved us so many times best invention.”
Nasal Aspirator For Baby Blue
23. Manual Breast Pump
For when electric pumping isn’t an option, this manual pump is handy while out and about. It’s compact and easy to use, making it a great backup for expressing milk on the go.
“I also have a manual pump I keep in diaper bag now in case I need to pump a little while we’re out.”
Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump
24. Pedicure
Keeping a monthly pedicure in your budget for some essential self-care. Taking time for a pedicure can help you relax and feel pampered, which is important for your overall well-being.
“My feet have hurt so much and having someone massage your feet and just soak in warm water felt SO good.”
25. Zip-Up nursing hoodies
Perfect for easy access during breastfeeding and keeping cozy. These hoodies combine comfort and practicality, allowing you to nurse discreetly and stay warm. Our personal fave is the snuggle top – a gorgeous invention that not only keeps you warm but keeps your baby close and snug too. One of our best sellers is right here.
Cotton 3 in 1 Maternity Hoodie Oatmeal
26. Linen Pants
Comfortable and stylish, these pants are ideal for lounging around while still feeling put together. Linen pants are breathable and soft, making them perfect for postpartum wear.
Wide-Leg Linen-Blend Under Bump Trousers Black
The linen pull-on barrel pant Canvas
27. Leakproof Underwear
Protect against leaks with underwear designed for postpartum recovery. These panties provide peace of mind by offering extra absorbency and comfort during the postpartum period.
Modibodi Seamfree Hi-Leg Cheeky Moderate-Heavy / Black /
Modibodi Postpartum Control Brief Moderate-Heavy / Black /
28. Baby Brezza
This appliance automates baby bottle preparation, ensuring consistent and precise formula mixing. It saves time and reduces the hassle of manual bottle preparation, especially during late-night feedings.
Baby Brezza Instant Baby Bottle Warmer White
29. Diaper Cart
Keep all your diapering essentials in one mobile, organized place. A diaper cart ensures you have everything you need for changing your baby at your fingertips, making diaper changes more efficient.
“A diaper cart in your room!”
Baby Diaper Caddy Organizer Cart Movable
30. Stylish sneakers to help you feel like yourself
The last thing you want to think about is what to wear to look good. A great pair of super cool sneakers will lift any outfit and take the guesswork out of pram walks. Grab a pair of cute Sambas or NBs to feel on trend while also looking after your feet. You never know just how far you’ll need to walk to get bub to sleep. Pro tip: bumpy paths are very soothing for newborns! Enjoy your walks mama, you’re doing an incredible job.
Samba Og Shoes Core Black / Cloud White / Gum
530 Grey Matter With Harbor Grey And Silver Metallic
These 30 essentials are more than just tools; they’re your partners in making the postpartum period and beyond a bit more glamorous, a lot more manageable, and infinitely memorable. With every product, remember: you’re doing a fantastic job, Mama. Shine on with your incredible self, and let these essentials make your journey even sweeter. 😊
What about when it comes to fashion?
During postpartum, staying stylish is probably quite far down your list. Sure, there are some super confident mamas rocking the latest everything immediately post-baby, but not ever mama has the energy, endless budget or time to look their best every single day, especially those mamas who have toddlers in tow, so it’s a good idea not to compare yourself to everyone you see. The number one item our postpartum mama community love are leggings—recovery and regular—but there were also some lesser known items that deserve their own mention