Melancentric Postpartum Essentials Checklist

Written By Nadja Jackson

"Prepare your space. Protect your peace."
We lived it. We loved it. Now we lead it.

Your Recovery Nest

Set up a space where you can rest, nurse, pump, and recover. Whether it’s your bed, the couch, or a cozy corner — make it yours.

  • Postpartum caddie (stocked with pads, peri bottle, nipple cream, burp cloths)

  • Large water bottle with a straw

  • Lactation-friendly snacks (protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, trail mix)

  • Nursing pillow or firm back support

  • Journal, affirmations, or gratitude notepad

  • Phone charger with long cord

  • Slippers with good grip (hospital and home floors can be slippery)

Feeding & Pumping Essentials

Whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping, or bottle feeding — set up stations in advance.

  • Breast pads (disposable or washable)

  • Nipple balm (lanolin-free or organic)

  • Manual pump

  • Haakaa (great for let-down or engorgement)

  • Pump caddie (include pump, flange, storage bags, bottles, charger, towel)

  • Milk storage bags

  • Bottle brush + drying station

  • Headphones or calming playlist for pumping sessions

Healing & Hygiene

  • Mesh underwear (grab extras from hospital or use high-waisted cotton pairs)

  • Peri bottle (Frida or standard)

  • Cooling witch hazel pads or herbal perineal spray

  • Sitz bath soaks (calm swelling + soreness)

  • Stool softeners and a gentle fiber supplement

  • Belly oil or lavender lotion for self-care

For Baby — So You’re Not Scrambling

  • Diapers (newborn + size 1 to be safe)

  • Fragrance-free wipes

  • Zip-up or magnetic sleepers (skip the snaps)

  • Fragrance-free body wash + baby comb/brush

  • Soft swaddles, burp cloths, pacifiers (if using)

  • White noise machine or app

For Your Mind + Spirit

  • Postpartum affirmation cards

  • Soft lighting (salt lamp or nightlight)

  • Short breathing meditations or 5-minute body scans

  • Letters from friends or affirmations to read when things feel heavy

Extra Support

  • Freezer meals, crockpot kits, or meal delivery apps

  • Doula visits (prenatal, birth, postpartum)

  • Lactation support appointment (IBCLC or Lactation Counselor)

  • A list of “who to call” — not just for the baby, but for you

Nadja Jackson
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