What You’ll Really Need (And What You Won’t)

Giving birth is a life-changing experience, and while much of the focus is on baby, your own recovery is just as important. The postpartum period can be messy, raw, and emotional, especially when it comes to using the bathroom in the early days. That’s why preparing a postpartum bathroom survival kit is one of the best things you can do for yourself.

Here’s a realistic guide to what new mums actually need for those first weeks, and what items can probably be skipped.

Absolute Essentials for Your Postpartum Bathroom Kit

1. Peri Bottle

If you only take one item into the bathroom with you after giving birth, make it a peri bottle. This simple, squirtable bottle is a lifesaver for cleaning yourself gently after using the toilet, especially if you’ve had stitches, tearing, or are dealing with tenderness. Warm water in a peri bottle helps ease discomfort and keeps you clean without the need for wiping. Many hospitals provide one, but having your own ergonomic, angled version at home makes a huge difference. Keep one by every toilet if you can.

2. Postpartum Pads (Extra Absorbent)

Bleeding after birth, known as lochia, is heavy and long-lasting. Stock up on extra-absorbent postpartum pads Australia offers, these are not your regular period pads. You’ll need thick, long pads for the first few days, and gradually lighter ones as bleeding decreases. Avoid anything scented, and don’t use tampons or menstrual cups until you’ve been cleared by your healthcare provider.

 

3. Postnatal Underwear or Disposable Postpartum Options

Soft, stretchy, high-waisted postnatal underwear or disposable postpartum underwear are ideal in the early days. They’re gentle on tender areas and help hold maternity pads in place. Women’s disposable underwear is also handy for convenience, especially during overnight changes or while out of the house.

4. Witch Hazel and Cooling Pads

Witch hazel has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe perineal discomfort. You can soak pads in witch hazel and freeze them or use pre-made cooling pads. These are particularly helpful if you’re experiencing swelling, bruising, or haemorrhoids after delivery.

 

5. Pain Relief and Stool Softeners

Have your over-the-counter pain relief and a gentle stool softener ready, as recommended by your care provider. The first bowel movement after birth can be daunting. Taking a stool softener in the early days can help you avoid unnecessary straining and discomfort.

 

6. Flushable Wipes or Soft Toilet Paper

Regular toilet paper can feel like sandpaper on sensitive skin. Invest in some fragrance-free flushable wipes or very soft toilet paper to avoid irritating stitches or sore areas. They’re also helpful when paired with a peri bottle.

 

7. Hand Sanitiser and Easy Access Bins

Post-birth hygiene is essential. Keep hand sanitiser in your bathroom for convenience, especially if you’re managing bleeding, wounds, or changing pads frequently. Small bins with lids and liners make disposal quick and discreet.

 

Nice-to-Haves (But Not Absolutely Necessary)

1. Perineal Spray or Herbal Sits Baths

These soothing sprays and soaks are lovely if you have the time. Herbal soaks or cooling sprays can help reduce inflammation and support healing, but a peri bottle and some warm water can do the job just fine.

 

2. Disposable Gloves or Washable Cloths

For mums managing stitches, dressing wounds, or just wanting to feel a little cleaner, gloves and cloths can help. Soft cloths for patting dry are gentle and comforting, while gloves offer an extra sense of hygiene.

 

3. Night Lights for Midnight Bathroom Trips

A soft, warm night light helps you find your way during late-night toilet visits without waking your partner or baby. A motion-sensor light near the bathroom can make those half-asleep moments easier to navigate.

 

4. Numbing Spray or Ice Packs

Some mums find a numbing spray (like lidocaine-based options) or perineal ice packs helpful in the early days. If you’ve had tearing, grazes, or stitches, these products may offer extra relief alongside witch hazel.

 

What You Probably Won’t Need

• Fancy postpartum skincare products that promise miracles, gentle care is enough.
• Scented hygiene sprays or wipes, these can irritate sensitive tissue.
• Regular undies in the first week or two, save those until bleeding lessens.
• Expensive postpartum-specific cleansers, you’ll do well with just warm water and gentle soap. 

 

Final Thoughts: Prepare to Care for Yourself

Creating a postpartum bathroom kit isn’t about being fancy, it’s about comfort, hygiene, and protecting your healing body. Items like a peri bottle, extra-absorbent postpartum pads Australia supplies, and breathable postnatal underwear will go a long way toward making your recovery smoother.

This kit is about supporting your wellbeing so you can focus on what really matters, bonding with your baby, resting when you can, and navigating the early days of motherhood with confidence and care.