Must-Have Essentials for your Postpartum Recovery in Townsville
The Ultimate Postpartum Checklist for New Mothers in Townsville
The newborn stage is beautiful, exhausting, and overwhelming all at once. While many parents prepare for birth, it’s just as important to prepare for the postpartum period, because caring for yourself is just as essential as caring for your baby. Here’s a checklist of must haves that made those first few weeks a little smoother for me, and I hope it helps others or at least provides some inspiration.
A postpartum doula. The best gift you can give a new mother.
One of the most thoughtful gifts for a new mother is postpartum doula support. A postpartum doula provides emotional, physical, and practical help during those exhausting first weeks. They assist with:
Newborn care and soothing techniques
Breastfeeding or bottle feeding support
Meal prep and light housework
Emotional support for parents
Cook and freeze meals before baby arrives.
You won’t always have time (or energy) to cook in the early days. Preparing and freezing meals ahead of time means you can focus on resting and bonding with your baby instead of worrying about dinner. Think easy to reheat meals like:
Soups and stews
Casseroles
Slow cooker meals
If cooking isn’t your thing, no worries. Just stock up on high quality frozen meals from a trusted local shop or order online. It’s all about making life easier during those early days.
Get a cleaner (even if it’s just once!)
The last thing you need to worry about is housework. If you can, book a cleaning service or ask family and friends to chip in for a one-off deep clean ( as a “baby shower” or “push present”.
Nipple cream (Lanolin is a lifesaver!)
Breastfeeding can be really tough in the beginning. It’s a learning curve for both you and your baby. I tried a few different nipple creams, but the lanolin one was by far the most effective. It helped soothe sore, cracked nipples and it's completely safe for baby too. A few other essentials that made a big difference for me: nipple shields (if you’re having latch issues) and nipple pads (for those all too common leaks).
Comfy period undies
Postpartum bleeding (lochia) can last weeks. Absorbent period undies are a great alternative to bulky pads and help keep you comfortable.
Love to Dream swaddle (even second-hand!)
Newborns sleep best when swaddled, and the love to dream swaddles are my absolute favourite, because they let babies sleep with their arms up. Have multiple ones (even second-hand one’s, it is worth it!)
A night light
Harsh lights wake everyone up more during night feeds. A soft, dimmable night light makes those feeds and nappy changes easier while keeping the room cosy.
A white noise machine
A great way to help soothe your little one to sleep. Both of my children have used one, and we’re still using it today! Ours is from roffie, and it’s been a lifesaver.
A trolley on wheels
Having a fully stocked trolley (I got mine from Ikea, though Kmart also sells them) with all your essentials makes life so much easier. You can move it around wherever you need it. Now, I use it in my studio to keep all my newborn session essentials organised and within reach such as posing aids, wraps, blankets, baby wipes, and more.
A moveable baby cot or bassinet
Having a cot or bassinet you can move from room to room was a game changer. Whether you’re in the living room, kitchen, or bedroom, keeping baby close while you go about your day makes things much easier.
A baby carrier
Your baby feels calm and comforted just by being close to you. The rhythm of your heartbeat, your breathing, and the way you move are all familiar and soothing. It’s a beautiful way to help them feel safe. And it’s practical for you, too. You’ll have your hands free to make sandwiches, do the laundry, look after other children…the list is endless, and they take up far less room than prams and buggies, making travelling by car or public transport so much easier. I used the Ergobaby Omni Breeze Carrier.
The postpartum period isn’t just about the baby-it’s about caring for yourself, too. Get the help you need, prepare ahead of time, and give yourself grace. If you’re in Townsville, take advantage of the many local resources available to support new mums. You’re doing an amazing job! If you're looking for the perfect gift for a new mum to be, check out my online boutique! I have a curated selection of beautiful baby outfits, blankets, lotions, oils, and baby wash. Plus, I also offer hamper packages designed to make a thoughtful and practical gift for any expecting mother.
