Postpartum Essentials: Third-Time Mom Approved

Last Updated on April 23, 2026 by Jordyn Koveleski Gorman

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Those early days after bringing home a baby are beautiful, overwhelming, and everything in between. You’re learning your new rhythm, running on little sleep, and adjusting to life with a new baby. In the middle of it all, having the right postpartum essentials can make a bigger difference than you might expect.

From small comforts to practical must-haves, the right items can help you feel more supported, a little more put together, and better equipped to navigate those tender first weeks. I wrote this post fresh after having my third baby so my favorite postpartum essentials would be front of mind.

Our Favorite Postpartum Essentials

Here are the tried-and-true products that made a huge difference for me in the first month after birth. And I know many of these items will continue to serve me for months to come!

Postpartum Clothes

Postpartum Clothing I Love

Price: ranges ($10-89)

Postpartum can often be a difficult time. There are so many changes going on – physically, mentally, and emotionally. And lots of things are out of your control. For example, your sleep schedule!

One thing you can control is your clothing. Wearing comfortable clothing postpartum can be a gamechanger. It certainly has been that way for me. I focused on nursing friendly tops that give an oversized feel. And I bought some cotton drawstring pants that can easily adapt to changes in weight postpartum.

Sure, your nipples might be cracked and bleeding, but you can still be comfy, cozy in your favorite sweatshirt. You may be leaking milk into your breast pads, but if you’re wearing your favorite oversized t-shirt, no one needs to know.

How we look can affect how we feel. When we look put together, we can feel more put together. And that’s definitely a feeling I craved in the throes of postpartum. Wearing an outfit you feel comfortable and confident in can make you feel human again.

These are some of my favorite postpartum clothes that helped me look and feel my best, even when life was hectic behind the scenes.

Why you need it: because looking human helps you feel human again

Postpartum Pajamas

When it comes to postpartum pajamas, I like to opt for a button-down option. This way, it makes nursing and/or pumping easier. Just unbutton one or two buttons and pull to the side.

Also, I think every new mom should have a comfortable and cute pair of pajamas. Because let’s be honest, we spend a lot of our time at night awake feeding or soothing a baby. We might as well feel cute while doing it!

Here are some of my favorite pajamas that work for everyday wear, AND postpartum.

Cotton Nursing Pajamas

Price: $46.99

For a cozier vibe, these long-sleeve, long-pants pajama set fit the bill perfectly. I’ve spent quite a few chilly nights up late nursing in these. Bonus: they are also maternity pajamas! I wore them until 39 weeks pregnant and they were so comfy!

The button-down top offers easy nursing access and this set is made with 100% cotton.

Floral Cotton Pajamas

Price: $34.99

These are so cute, and the floral pattern is classic and feels cheery. I love that they’re 100% cotton and a perfect set for warm weather wear.

Nursing Nightdress

Price: $23.66

If you’re more of a nightgown girl, I recently discovered this maternity and nursing nightdress and really like it! It’s light and breathable while the buttons give easy nursing access. I wore it until I gave birth and it’s what I reach most for in postpartum. It’s lightweight and perfect for compating night sweats.

Why you need these: because somehow, a matching pajama set or cute nightgown makes night wakings feel more manageable

Postpartum Underwear

Rael Disposable Underwear

Price: $19.18 for 12-pack

When you’re still bleeding, the best postpartum underwear is disposable underwear. It’s so much better than thick pads that move around and leave you with wedgies.

And, this disposable underwear is made with an organic cotton top sheet. It has the absorption power of 4 pads, so you can rest assured it’ll keep your clothing clean and dry.

Why you need it: because pads that shift and bunch are not the vibe

Cotton Postpartum Underwear

Price: $21.99 for 6-pack

I crowdsourced this cotton maternity underwear from followers and this was the overwhelming choice. Once I bought it myself, I understood why!

Made with 100% cotton lining, this set is suitable to be used as maternity and postpartum underwear. It’s comfortable and provides good coverage. It stretches in all the right places, staying in place while not being too tight or restricting.

Why you need it: because comfortable, stay-in-place underwear is a postpartum essential

Non-Toxic Skincare

DIME The Works Skincare System

Price: $160, use code EATPLAYSAY to save 20%

All moms deserve some self-care, especially when they’re in the thick of postpartum. A good skincare routine can be a great way to get a few minutes of time for yourself before starting the day.

The Works non-toxic skincare set is part of my daily routine and has been for over 2 years now. It only takes a few minutes to cleanse, tone, and moisturize, and my skin has never looked better!

All of these products are EWG-verified and made with non-toxic ingredients.

Use code EATPLAYSAY for 20% off!

Why you need it: because taking care of you matters, too—even if it’s just a few minutes.

Tinted SPF

DIME Tinted Glow Wonderscreen

Price: $35.20, use code EATPLAYSAY for 20% off

You may not consider this a postpartum essential, but it has been for me! Let me tell you why:

First off, I feel like it’s so healing to get outside and feel the sun hit your face, even if it’s cold out. Get that sunshine and Vitamin D to give yourself a boost for the day and feel refreshed!

Not only is DIME Wonderscreen a good sunscreen option for your face, the tinted aspect of it makes your skin look so smooth, and instantly freshens your face. It’s part of my 5-minute routine in the morning to protect my skin, and help me feel awake and alive!

Use code EATPLAYSAY to save 20%

Why you need it: because this tinted SPF does double duty—it protects your skin while instantly making you look more put together.

Electric Heating Pad

Electric Heating Pad

Price: $18.99

The postpartum contractions are killer. (And they get worse with subsequent pregnancies- ouch!) Do yourself a favor and get a heating pad to help soothe that pain!

You can also use a heating pad like this for any sore body parts, or just for some relaxing warmth.

Why you need it: because your uterus didn’t just do a marathon and call it a day—it’s doing an encore. Heat = sweet relief.

Postpartum Vitamins

Intramax Organic Liquid Multivitamin

Price: $89

There’s a lot of postpartum vitamins out there. But, not all of them are created equal. When I was looking for the best vitamins to take postpartum, I ended up sticking with my liquid multivitamin.

It has 415+ vitamins, trace minerals, and antioxidants to support my body. I love that it’s organic, gluten-free, and in liquid form. No additional huge pills to swallow or ignite the gag reflex!

Why you need it: because you can’t run on snacks and coffee alone (even though we try)

Collagen Peptides

Live Conscious Collagen Peptides

Price: $34

After my second baby, I started putting these Live Conscious collagen peptides in my coffee every morning. And you know what? I saw a difference!

This collagen is unflavored and easily dissolves into your favorite beverage. It supports healthy skin, hair, nails, and joint health. It’s another form of self-care I use daily, but especially when I’m postpartum and feeling more depleted.

Why you need it: because your skin and hair deserve a little extra love right now

Silverette Nursing Cups

Silverettes

Price: $69.99

Trust me, silverettes save your nipples. Early on in postpartum, these are so helpful.

Made from 925 silver which is a naturally antibacterial metal, these cups go over your nipples to soothe and protect them. No more excessive rubbing on your nursing bra while your nipples are already sore and painful.

Many moms credit these to helping them maintain their breastfeeding journey. The antibacterial qualities of silverettes can help heal nipples and protect them throughout your feeding journey.

Why you need it: because sore nipples are no joke, and these bring real relief

Organic Nipple Cream

Primally Pure Baby Balm

Price: $20, use code EATPLAYSAY to save 15%

If you’re breastfeeding or pumping, a moisturizing nipple cream is a lifesaver. Because really, no woman wants to suffer through dry, cracked nipples.

While this is technically a baby balm, I use it for so much more! It’s got clean, non-toxic ingredients and soothes dry, irritated skin. Trust me on this one. You can use it for yourself and your baby.

Use code EATPLAYSAY to save 15%

Why you need it: because your nipples deserve better than just surviving

Supportive Nursing Bra

Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing Bra

Price: $52.89

A good nursing and pumping bra can make all the difference in the world. Again, I learned about this postpartum essential from all the moms in this community!

The Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing Bra is highly-rated by nursing mothers for its durability and comfort, and it works for nursing and wearable pumps. The padding holds up to being pulled down for nursing and doesn’t get lumpy. (A total win!)

Another thing I love about Kindred Bravely bras is their inclusive sizing. Their bras fit women with regular busts, and women who are super busty.

Why you need it: because anything that makes feeding easier is worth its weight in gold, and the right nursing bra can make all the difference

Nighttime Nursing Bras

Price: $23.99 for 3-pack

I absolutely love these nursing bras for sleeping and all-around comfort throughout the day. I wore these in the hospital when Natalie was born and haven’t stopped. It is so easy to pull the criss-cross front to the side for nursing access.

They’re affordable, made with cotton, and give just the right support overnight.

Why you need it: because a little extra support goes a long way during those early postpartum nights

We think a good nursing and pumping bra is so important, we wrote a whole post comparing and contrasting the top nursing bras.

Dimmable Night Light

Egg Night Light

Price: $39.99

A new baby, overnight feedings, and diaper changes are made easier with this egg night light. Dim it just enough to be able to see, but not wake the baby (and yourself) with bright overhead lights.

Forget about fumbling in the dark trying to find what you need. All you have to do is flip it to turn it on. This has been another gamechanger during those late nights postpartum.

Why you need it: because 2 a.m. is for feeding, not flipping on bright lights

Nursing Support Pillow

Bowroo Nursing Support Pillow

Price: $57.99

Oftentimes, we don’t talk about how hard it is to feed a baby. The right nursing position can feel tough to figure out and leave you feeling hunched over and lacking support.

Enter the Bowroo Nursing Support Pillow. It was made by a mom for all moms and caregivers who share feedings.

It’s different from the Boppy and My Breast Friend nursing pillows because it’s less bulky and fits better for mom AND baby. You can use it for more support breastfeeding or bottle feeding.

Why you need it: because feeding your baby shouldn’t wreck your back or feel awkward

Silicone Breastmilk Collector

Boon Trove Milk Collector

Price: $26.99 for 2

I am pro-milk collectors because they don’t let a single drop of your breastmilk go to waste! They catch milk letdowns from the opposite breast when you’re nursing or pumping.

The Boon Trove is my all-around favorite milk collector. It’s made of soft, flexible silicone and fits directly in your bra to catch milk. You can wear it while nursing, pumping, or throughout the day. It doesn’t get in the way while nursing and stays comfortably in place.

Why you need it: because every drop counts (and yes, we cry over spilled milk)

Manual Breast Pump

Medela Hand Pump

Price: $23.49

When your milk is coming in, your breasts can become firm, uncomfortable, and engorged. Even months into your feeding journey, this can be an issue.

A manual breast pump is an effective tool to take the edge off when you’re feeling super full. Additionally, it’s lightweight and easy to transport. No bulky pump or wires required.

I’m always pleasantly surprised by how much milk I can extract in just a few minutes!

Why you need it: because sometimes the girls are screaming and need a little relief

Milk Storage Containers

Souper Cubes MyMilk Containers

Price: $39.99 for 2

These breastmilk freezer trays are one of my favorite ways to store breastmilk. Each small section holds half an ounce, so you can easily know how much you’re popping out to fill a bottle.

The little cubes fit perfectly into bottles. And, since most exclusively nursing babies take between two and three ounces in a bottle it’s really easy to pop the little frozen circles in the bottle to thaw!

Why you need it: because your milk stash deserves organization, not chaos.

Non-Toxic Deodorant

Primally Pure Non-Toxic Deodorant

Price: $16, use code EATPLAYSAY to save 15%

We all know about the postpartum stench. Gosh, the hormones are raging, you’re having night sweats and the stink is REAL.

I tried lots of different non-toxic deodorants before I landed on this one. It’s a real winner because it keeps the postpartum stink at bay and smells fresh and clean. I personally love the blue tansy scent.

Why you need it: because postpartum exhaustion doesn’t need a side of B.O.

Baby Carriers

Baby carriers are such a helpful tool during postpartum, especially if you have older kids who still need you. They allow you to be hands-free while keeping baby close. I’ve tried so many carriers and these are some of my favorites for the newborn and early infant stage!

Hope and Plum Baby Wrap Carrier

Price: $80

I love that this wrap carrier comes in two different sizes so it’s inclusive for all sizes. It’s lightweight with stretch, but not so stretchy that it feels like your baby is going to fall out while you’re wearing it. That being said, you do have to wear this very tight for the best fit.

I love that it’s made in the USA by other moms! It’s breathable and perfect for those newborn snuggles.

Why you need it: because you don’t have to choose between newborn snuggles and getting things done

Ergo Embrace Carrier

Price: $99

If you’re looking for an infant carrier with more support, this is it! It’s got comfortable straps and a criss-cross back to support mom.

While the fabric isn’t as breathable as some other carriers on the market, it is so easy to use and adjust. It’s one of the comfiest baby carriers I own. I love snuggling Natalie in this because it’s structured enough that I still have the support to get things done!

Why you need it: because a little extra structure goes a long way on busy days

Looking for more?

We rounded up the best nursing and pumping bras and compared and contrasted popular milk collectors to make your feeding journey less complicated.

Find all of our registry recommendations all in one place – no fluff, just the essentials.