Building your own postpartum care kit is one of the most empowering things you can do before welcoming your baby. At Milk & Baby, we know firsthand how vital comfort, healing, and preparedness are to feeling supported as a new mom. From soothing perineal care to simple self-care rituals, we believe in crafting a kit that addresses the realities of postpartum recovery—because every mom deserves to feel nurtured, respected, and equipped for this transformative season.

Why Every New Mom Needs a DIY Postpartum Care Kit

Postpartum healing is a unique journey for every mother—your body and emotions will need time and gentle support to recover. While hospitals provide some essentials, many moms find that having a personalized kit at home allows them to cater to their individual needs, routines, and preferences. A DIY approach also helps you avoid overwhelming, one-size-fits-all solutions and endless supply lists—making your recovery more comfortable, mindful, and practical.

What to Include in Your Postpartum Care Kit

Below, we've outlined all the key areas to cover, with specific recommendations rooted in our community-focused expertise as a boutique for new moms. We’ve included a mix of affordable DIY options and a few select ready-made essentials that truly make a difference (and are available in our shop for those who prefer less hassle).

1. Comfort & Recovery for Your Perineal Area

• Peri Bottle: A squirt bottle for rinsing after using the bathroom—gentle, effective cleansing without irritation. (Often supplied by hospitals, but having an extra at home is very helpful.)
• Padcicles: DIY cold compresses provide instant relief from swelling and soreness. To make your own:
  • Take a few thick, dye-free maxi pads
  • Spread a layer of pure aloe vera gel and pour on a little witch hazel
  • Wrap in foil or plastic and freeze until needed
• Soothing Sprays or Balms: Look for natural ingredients (like witch hazel or calendula) for gentle comfort. Ready to go? Refer to products like our Deluxe Postpartum Recovery Box, which includes perineal sprays and pads, plus thoughtful tips for optimal use.

2. Postpartum Bleeding & Hygiene

• Mesh or High-Waisted Postpartum Underwear: These are a must for support and comfort as your body heals. The mesh undies included in our Deluxe Postpartum Recovery Box are hospital-grade favorites.
• Absorbent Postpartum Pads: Invest in overnight, unscented pads designed for heavy flow. Change frequently for hygiene and comfort.
• Perineal Cold/Warm Packs: Reusable gel packs, such as those found in our kit or available separately, bring targeted relief to swollen or strained areas. Learn more about our Hot & Cold Reusable Gel Packs (2 Pack).

3. Breast & Nipple Care (If Breastfeeding or Pumping)

Nursing moms face their own set of healing concerns—soothing sensitive skin and preventing discomfort is key!

• Nipple Cream: A gentle, all-natural solution (like our Lanolin Nipple Cream) can prevent and heal cracked or sore nipples.
• Nursing Pads: Disposable or washable pads to absorb leaks and keep you comfortable throughout the day.
• Milk Storage Solutions: If pumping, a few boxes of secure breast milk storage bags or a compact manual milk collector make the process smoother and mess-free.
• All-in-One Nursing Boxes: If you want a curated experience, our Breastfeeding Box bundles everything new nursing moms need—pads, creams, hydration, and encouragement—in a single thoughtful package.

4. Personal Self-Care & Wellbeing

• Hydration: Keep a large, easy-to-use water bottle handy at all times. Recovery and milk production both require lots of fluids.
• Light, Comfortable Clothing: Look for breathable, nursing-friendly pieces that won’t irritate sensitive skin. Recover in style and comfort with options from our Nursing & Sleepwear and Robes collections.
• Gentle Cleansing Products: Use mild soaps with no fragrance. Having unscented baby wipes by your bedside helps keep you feeling fresh with minimal effort.
• Affirmation or Encouragement Cards: Postpartum emotions are deeply real—having words of support at your fingertips can uplift you on tough days (these are included in some of our ready-made boxes, too!).

5. Optional Add-Ons for Enhanced Recovery

• Sitz Bath Soaks: A basin of warm water with herbs or Epsom salts can bring significant comfort, especially with perineal soreness or stitches. Herbal sitz bath sprays or pads can be included, like those in our recovery kit.
• Light Snacks: Energy bars, dried fruit, or crackers are easy to keep at your bedside.
• Soft Nightlight: A dim light helps you move around for feedings or soothing without disrupting rest.

How to Organize Your DIY Postpartum Care Kit

We recommend designating a few small baskets or caddies for easy grab-and-go access. Here’s how to make it practical and accessible:

• Bathroom Caddy: Peri bottle, padcicles, cold packs, and clean pads—all within arm's reach.
• Bedside Basket: Nursing pads, water bottle, snacks, nipple cream, affirmations, and light reading or phone charger.
• On-the-Go Pouch: A small zippered bag with pads, wipes, hand sanitizer, and a fresh pair of underwear for any outings.

Pro Tip: Start assembling your kit at least a few weeks before your due date, so everything is ready when you come home. Don’t hesitate to involve your partner or loved ones—they often want to help but just need guidance on what’s most supportive.

Timing and Usage: Making the Most of Your Kit

• First 72 Hours: Focus on cooling, absorption (pads and mesh panties), and using the peri bottle after every bathroom trip.
• Days 4-10: Continue gentle cleansing, switch to more absorbent cotton pads if preferred, and apply balms or sprays several times a day.
• Two Weeks+: Transition toward regular underwear, lighter pads, and focus on ongoing comfort for any sore areas. Keep a few supplies on hand for late-night needs or secondary healing.

Milk & Baby’s Favorite Ready-Made Solutions

Homemade kits can provide everything you need, but if you would rather not source all items yourself, we have thoughtfully designed care packages like our Deluxe Postpartum Recovery Box. These bring together mesh undies, herbal-infused pads, sprays, balms, and gentle guidance, helping moms feel cherished and truly understood. If you’re preparing for breastfeeding, the Breastfeeding Box includes all the essentials for comfort and confidence in your nursing journey—nipple cream, nursing pads, hydration supports, and more, curated by moms, for moms.

Personal Touches: Encouragement from Moms Who Get It

From our founder Beth (and the whole Milk & Baby family): “Remember, there’s no gold star for doing postpartum alone or ‘perfectly.’ Set yourself up for healing with what will make you most comfortable, whether that’s a freezer full of pads or a just-right robe. Reach out if you need help—our mission is to support and encourage every parent during this vulnerable and beautiful season.”

Final Thoughts: Embrace Your Recovery Journey

However you choose to assemble your kit, know that caring for yourself is not selfish—it's a way to nurture your ability to care for your little one, too. Every detail, from a soothing padcicle to a kind affirmation, reminds you that your comfort and healing matter.

Ready to make recovery a little easier? Explore the full range of postpartum, nursing, and new baby support items at Milk & Baby. We’re honored to walk this journey with you—one mom, one moment, and one day at a time.