The Ultimate Postpartum Checklist and Why a Doula Should Be on It
If you’ve been researching and preparing for life with a newborn, you already know you need diapers, onesies, and a car seat. But what about the things that will actually help you survive those first few weeks postpartum? Because let’s be real—newborn life is a rollercoaster, and no amount of cute baby onesies will make up for exhaustion, sore nipples, or the emotional whiplash that comes with healing from birth. That’s why you need a solid postpartum plan—and at the top of that list? Hiring a postpartum doula!
As doulas ourselves we’ve worked with countless families over two decades and in doing so have compiled the ultimate postpartum checklist with everything you actually need to make recovery easier.
Hire A Postpartum Doula for Real Support
Yes, we may be biased, but really you don’t just need help—you need the right kind of help. A postpartum doula provides hands-on care so you can focus on healing while they assist with newborn care, feeding support, emotional reassurance, and even light household chores. They fill the gap between medical care and real-life survival, helping you transition into parenthood without feeling completely lost.
Why a Doula Should Be on Your Checklist:
They help with feeding support (breastfeeding, pumping, bottle-feeding—whatever works for you).
They assist with newborn care (because sometimes you just need someone else to rock the baby so you can shower or eat a meal).
They offer emotional support (postpartum is no joke, and having a non-judgmental, experienced person in your corner makes a big difference).
They can provide daytime or overnight doula care so you can actually sleep, eat, and take care of yourself!
Bottom Line: If you want to make postpartum easier, hire a doula. This is an investment in your well-being, not just another baby product.
Comfortable, Easy-Access Postpartum Clothing
Forget about squeezing into pre-pregnancy jeans. You need soft, loose, and functional postpartum clothes.
Must-Haves:
Nursing-friendly tops and bras (Kindred Bravely has great options)
High-waisted leggings or joggers (Blanqi postpartum leggings are a favorite)
A soft robe (because you’ll live in it—trust us)
Postpartum underwear (Rael organin disposable undies are lifesavers for those first 5-7 days or try these organic cotton underwear that provide good coverage)
Postpartum Healing & Recovery Essentials
Your body just grew and birthed a human. Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, recovery takes time. Set yourself up with the essentials for healing before you need them.
Must-Haves:
Peri bottle for rinsing after using the bathroom (Frida Mom makes the best one!)
Padsicles or cooling pads for soothing soreness
Sitz bath herbs or sitz spray (because your perineum deserves it)
Stool softeners or magnesium (yes, really—postpartum constipation can be brutal)
Belly support band or belly binding services.
Postpartum Nutrition & Hydration
Feeding a newborn burns serious calories, and your body is still healing. The last thing you need is to be running on fumes because you forgot to eat. Stock up on easy, nutrient-dense foods.
Must-Haves:
Meal prep ahead of time or set up a meal train (have friends bring food instead of baby gifts!)
Protein-packed snacks (nuts, energy bites, cheese, and protein bars)
Electrolytes for hydration (Needed is my favorite brand and especially formulated for pregnancy and postpartum. LMNT is great, too. Try their Chocolate Sea Salt flavor - trust me!)
Lactation-friendly teas if you’re nursing
Postpartum meal delivery from Mama Meals to ensure you’re eating nourishing, ready-to-heat meals without the stress of cooking. Use code NATLBABYCO20 for $20 off the first order of $200+
Postpartum Sleep & Mental Health Support
Sleep deprivation is real, and it can affect everything—from your mood to your milk supply to your ability to care for your baby. Protecting your mental health in postpartum is just as important as healing your body.
Must-Haves:
A support system - whether it’s a partner, friend, or postpartum doula—don’t do this alone.
Noise machine for baby’s sleep (Hatch Sound Machine is a popular choice)
Blackout curtains for better naps. Just trust me!
Have a therapist or counselor on standby if you need emotional support. Postpartum mood disorders are a very real risk. Help is available!
Bottles, Pumps, and Feeding Support
Whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping, or using formula, having the right tools makes life easier.
Must-Haves:
Nipple cream for sore nipples (Motherlove was my favorite. Earth Mama is another good option!)
A good breast pump (Spectra is a solid choice, but check with your insurance provider as they may cover a breast pump and have brands they specifically cover.)
A few different bottle brands - babies can be picky.
Formula and water filter if supplementing
If you take away one thing from this checklist, let it be this: Hire a postpartum doula!
You can buy all the fancy products, but nothing replaces human support. A doula will be there when you’re running on no sleep, when you don’t know why your baby won’t stop crying, and when you just need someone to say, “You’re doing a great job.”
Ready to Make Postpartum Easier?
National Baby Co. connects families with experienced postpartum doulas in Southern California, Metro Detroit, Eugene Oregon, East Tennessee, and more! Whether you need daytime support, overnight care, or just someone to guide you through recovery, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to get matched with wonderful doulas in your area!
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