Doula-Approved Eco-Friendly Postpartum Must-Haves for New Moms
Over my 15 years as a doula, I’ve supported my fair share of clients through birth and postpartum (last I checked it was over 340 families!). In that time and in my own experience as a new mom, I have searched for the best, most eco-friendly and healthiest products to recommend to my clients. I try my hardest to be a good steward of the earth as well as my own body and home, and while I’m nowhere near perfect, I consider myself a conscious consumer and have found that my loyalty lies with several eco-friendly brands that serve new moms. Not only do the products I’ll share here prioritize the health of both mother and baby, but they also contribute to a sustainable future for generations to come.
Items in this post are shared through affiliate links where we receive compensation if the item we recommend is purchased. We only share things that we believe in and support. Thank you for supporting our small business by using our links 💗
Organic Cotton Nursing Pads: During the early days of breastfeeding, leakage is common and can be annoying and inconvenient. Traditional disposable nursing pads contribute to environmental waste and may contain harmful chemicals. Opting for organic cotton nursing pads not only reduces waste but also provides a gentle and breathable solution for sensitive skin. Organic cotton is free from pesticides and synthetic chemicals, making it safer for both mother and baby. Bonus, if you plan to have more kids, you can save them for your next baby!
Wool or Cotton Nursing Pillow: A nursing pillow is SUPER helpful for positioning and supporting your baby during breastfeeding sessions and making sure you don’t absolutely kill your body. Opt for an eco-friendly nursing pillow made from organic cotton, organic wool or other sustainable materials like buckwheat hulls or natural latex. Keep in mind, some brands advertise an organic pillow, but in reality the cover is organic, but the filler is still polyester - so read the fine print! Nursing pillows provide firm yet comfortable support for both mother and baby while reducing the use of synthetic materials and harmful chemicals. Look for a design that promotes proper latch and alignment for optimal breastfeeding success.
Stainless Steel Water Bottle: Staying hydrated (with more than just plain water) is crucial for postpartum recovery and breastfeeding success. A durable stainless steel water bottle is a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic bottles. This particular one is free from harmful chemicals like BPA, lead and phthalates and you can also use it for both cool and warm liquids. Warming liquids like broths and teas are highly recommended for an optimal postpartum recovery. With a reusable water bottle by your side, you can stay hydrated on the go while reducing plastic waste.
Reusable Breast Milk Storage Bags: Opt for reusable and sustainable breast milk storage bags made from eco-friendly materials like silicone or glass. These bags are durable, easy to clean, and can be used multiple times, reducing waste and minimizing your environmental impact. Another alternative would be silicone freezer trays.
Washable Postpartum Undies: While you may need the comfort and convenience of organic mesh postpartum underwear in the first few days after birth, transitioning to reusable period panties postpartum offers a sustainable and comfortable alternative to traditional disposable pads. Made from absorbent, moisture-wicking fabrics like organic cotton or bamboo, reusable period panties provide reliable protection against leaks while reducing waste. These panties are designed to be washed and reused, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice for managing postpartum bleeding. Not into the reusable period panties? Opt for organic cotton pads or panty liners.
Cloth Diapers & Wipes: Choosing cloth diapers & wipes for your baby's postpartum needs is a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to disposable diapers. Made from soft, absorbent materials like organic cotton, organic wool or bamboo, cloth diapers are gentle on your baby's delicate skin and can be washed and reused multiple times. By opting for cloth diapers & wipes, you can significantly reduce the environmental impact associated with disposable diaper waste while saving money in the long run. Esembly is a brand I just adore and primarily use for my own child (and have since her birth)!
“Every year in the United States, approximately 27.4 billion diapers are sent to landfills, creating 3.5 million tons of waste annually. According to a recent report from the Environmental Protection Agency, disposable diapers that end up in these landfills introduce harmful pathogens into the environment from the solid waste they contain. While the effects of these pathogens are still being studied, experts agree that these pathogens could be potentially polluting our drinking water.
By making the switch to cloth diapers, your family can reduce its carbon footprint and prevent an average of 2,200 diapers from going to a landfill each year.”
Organic Baby Clothing Subscription: Enroll in an organic baby clothing subscription service, such as UpChoose, to ensure your little one is dressed in sustainable and eco-friendly apparel. These subscription boxes curate a selection of high-quality organic cotton clothing items that are gentle on your baby's skin and made with environmentally conscious practices. By opting for organic baby clothing, you're supporting ethical and sustainable fashion while reducing your carbon footprint. Plus, the convenience of a subscription service means you'll always have a fresh supply of eco-friendly clothing for your growing baby without the hassle of shopping in-store. Use Code: Lauren99 for $15 off your first months subscription at Upchoose.
Organic Postpartum Meal Delivery Service: Ensure you are a well fed mama and simplify meal planning with my favorite organic postpartum meal delivery service - Mama Meals. I first met the owner, Holly, when leading a postpartum group for moms in Orange County. She launched this incredible company and is now nourishing mamas all over the United States! Mama Meals offers delicious, nutrient-dense meals tailored specifically to support an optimal postpartum recovery. You can select a pre-packaged box or build your own delivery box from a variety of organic and locally sourced ingredients. Meals are already prepared and delivered directly to your door! I highly recommend starting out with the Essentials Package to get the most variety. It doesn’t matter if you’re in Los Angeles, Austin, Denver, Orlando, Portland, or Detroit - Mama Meals will deliver freezer meals locally to you! Use Code NATLBABYCO20 for $20 off your first order of $200+
By prioritizing products that are ethically sourced, environmentally conscious, and made with care, you're not only investing in the well-being of yourself and your family but you’re also contributing to a brighter, more sustainable future for your children… and mine.
If you've found value in the recommendations shared here and decide to make a purchase using one or more of the affiliate links, please know that your support means the world to us.