The first few weeks after giving birth are full of so many emotions—and a lot of physical healing too. One of the best things I did to make those early days easier was set up a little cart full of postpartum healing essentials in our bathroom. I didn’t want to be fumbling through drawers or digging under the sink for my postpartum items. Having everything within arm’s reach while doing my business was such a lifesaver!
This post is a look at what I included in my own bathroom cart to support postpartum recovery after a vaginal birth. If you had a c-section, your cart will probably look different!
Disclaimer: I’m not a doctor—just a first-time mom sharing what helped me. Be sure to check with your own provider before using anything new postpartum. Also, This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through one of my links. I only share products I truly love and personally use or recommend. Read more about our Disclaimer Policy. Thank you for supporting my blog!
Why a Postpartum Bathroom Cart?
You’ll likely be spending a good amount of time in the bathroom during those first few days—changing pads, using your peri bottle, and checking in with your healing body. Setting up a cart with your essentials keeps everything organized and ready to go, which is exactly what you want when you’re sore, tired, and possibly holding a baby in one arm.
My List of Postpartum Healing Essentials:
The 3-tier Cart Itself
I used a 3-tier metal cart and separated it by category: top for all the smaller items like the peri bottle, tucks pads, perineal spray, etc. I used the middle rack to hold diapers, ice pack pads, and regular pads. And I stored extras of diapers and pads in the bottom rack. Find the system that works best for you!
Rael Disposable Postpartum Underwear
These disposable underwear were way more comfortable than I expected—and held those giant pads securely without digging in. I loved that they felt snug but very soft and breathable. Also they aren’t riddled with chemicals or fragrances! So I felt safe putting it on my healing body.
I also used the Frida Mom underwear. If you like a more snug fit and support for your shrinking belly, this one’s for you.
Frida Mom Instant Ice Maxi Pads
The cold relief felt amazing in those first few days. These double as pads and ice packs, which is exactly the kind of multitasking you need postpartum. They did feel bulky once they warmed up (like I was sitting on a pvc pipe haha), so I only used them once or twice a day.
Peri Bottle with Herbal Healing Rinse
This was something my husband did for me postpartum. He would boil a huge pot of water and steep healing herbs (like this postpartum sitz bath herbal remedy). Then he’d fill the peri bottles up half way and I would fill the rest of it with warm water before going to the bathroom. It soothed everything and made me feel so much cleaner. I also used it while peeing and it lessened the stinging (stayed well hydrated also lessens the stinging!).
Tucks Cooling Pads
Tucks pads are soaked in witch hazel and give a cooling sensation. They really helped me with swelling and stinging. I layered them on top of my pad (either ice pad or regular one) for extra relief. They also double as a hemorrhoid treatment.
Earth Mama Herbal Perineal Spray
A gentle, cooling spray with no harsh chemicals. I sprayed this directly on me down there after every clean-up session and felt instant comfort. I MUCH preferred the spray over the foam! The foam made me feel sticky and like I need to wipe constantly.
Dermoplast Pain & Itch Spray
This is another one to clear with your provider, but it worked wonders for me. It numbed the area just enough to take the edge off. I sprayed this directly on me down there too.
Sitz Bath or Sitz Bath Soak
If you have the time and space, soaking in a warm sitz bath (in something like this) can really speed up healing and provide a moment of peace. You can use the same herbs you use in the peri bottle. I never got around to doing a sitz bath, but have heard only wonderful things!
Rael Overnight and Regular Pads
Keep a stash of heavy-duty overnight pads (especially for when the ice packs run out). These are big enough to catch everything in those early days and hold all the extras you add to your diaper. You’ll also go through more than you think! I switched to regular pads once I stopped using the ice pads and Tucks pads – about 2 weeks in.
Trash Bags or Grocery Bags
Use these for tossing used pads, wipes, or any other disposable items. I had a kitchen trash sized bag in our bathroom. You’ll be changing your diaper set up multiple times a day, and the items are bulky!
Final Thoughts:
Healing after birth isn’t glamorous—but it can be more comfortable with a bit of prep. This list of postpartum healing essentials helped me feel more in control and supported while navigating those blurry, beautiful postpartum days.
Every mom’s experience is different, so take what serves you and leave the rest. 💛
