Your Postpartum Recovery Checklist: What to Prep Before Baby Arrives
You’ve probably packed the hospital bag and built the crib, but have you planned for your postpartum recovery?
We spend so much time preparing for birth that it’s easy to forget about what happens after. That’s where this checklist comes in. Think of it as your gentle guide to building a soft landing for your postpartum journey. One that’s calm, supported, and ready for real life with a newborn!
🌼 Postpartum Recovery Checklist
💛 Physical Recovery Essentials
Peri bottle (hospital usually provides one)
Pads or adult diapers (variety of absorbency)
Witch hazel pads or spray
Nipple cream (lanolin or natural alternative)
Comfortable nursing bras/tanks
Mesh or high-waisted underwear
Heating pad or rice sock
Stool softener (ask your provider)
Water bottle (preferably one-handed!)
Easy snacks for one-handed eating
🍼 Feeding Prep
Nursing pillow or support
Burp cloths (you’ll need more than you think!)
Haakaa or manual milk collector
Bottles and cleaning supplies (even if you plan to breastfeed)
Formula options (just in case, and remember, it’s okay to feel disappointed if things don’t go how you planned!)
Lactation consultant contact info
Feeding log (app or printable)
🛏️ Sleep & Rest Setup
Bassinet or safe sleep space near your bed
Dim lighting for nighttime feedings
Extra crib sheets and waterproof pads
White noise machine
Plan for overnight help (partner, doula, family)
🧺 Practical Home Prep
Freezer meals or takeout gift cards
Laundry detergent safe for baby
Clean pump parts and bottle station
Basic household items stocked (toilet paper, snacks, coffee)
One-handed meals/snacks in easy reach
Setup changing stations in multiple rooms
👩⚕️ Emotional & Mental Health
Know the signs of baby blues vs. postpartum depression
Journal or app to track feelings/symptoms
Therapist or counselor info (just in case)
Regular check-ins with partner or support person
Permission to ask for help (this is big!)
🌸 Support System
Postpartum doula contact info (hi, I'm here! 😊)
List of visitors you’re actually excited about
Tasks to delegate: meals, errands, baby holding, cleaning
Set expectations with family/friends ahead of time
“What to say instead of ‘let me know if you need anything’” cheat sheet for loved ones
👨👩👧 Partner & Family Prep
Learn newborn soothing techniques together
Discuss night shift swaps or baby duty rotation
Make a loose “who does what” plan
Talk through big feelings ahead of time
Learn how to support emotional recovery, not just physical
💬 From Your Doula at Melodies in Bloom
Postpartum isn’t just something to survive, it’s something to prepare for and honor. You deserve support, comfort, nourishment, and help as you bloom into this next version of yourself!
Let me help you design a postpartum plan that’s just right for your family. Whether it’s in-home care, virtual support, or a listening ear, I’m here for you every step of the way.