If you’re a first-time mom who loves being prepared, this guide is for you! These items are perfect for postpartum prep and will help you navigate those early weeks with confidence.

As a first-time mom, you probably have a list a mile long of all the essentials you think you need before baby arrives. But what about the less obvious things? These are the game-changers—the “oh my gosh, why didn’t anyone tell me about this?!” items that make life with a newborn just a little easier. Here’s my list of five must-haves you may not have thought of, but will be so thankful to have on hand.

1. An Exercise Ball

An exercise ball is more than just a workout tool—it’s a multitasking miracle for moms. During pregnancy, it’s fantastic for sitting comfortably, helping with posture, and even for positioning baby during labor. Postpartum, it’s equally valuable. Not only can you use it for pelvic floor exercises, but it’s also a lifesaver for soothing a fussy baby. Bouncing on the ball mimics the gentle, rhythmic motion babies experienced in the womb, making it one of the most effective ways to calm them.

Here’s a little tip: If you’re traveling to a place without a rocking chair, pack a deflated exercise ball and a small pump. It’s lightweight, portable, and familiar for both you and baby.

2. Magnesium Citrate

Let’s be real for a moment, moms. Everyone talks about stool softeners for postpartum recovery, but have you heard about magnesium citrate? It’s a natural, gentle way to stay regular during pregnancy and after delivery. Trust me, after pushing out a baby, the last thing you’ll want is to strain for anything else. Magnesium citrate gets the job done with less discomfort, and you can thank me later.

3. Freezer Meals (Especially Breakfast Options)

If there’s one thing I wish I had done more of as a first-time mom, it’s prepping freezer meals. By baby number three, I finally figured it out. Having a stash of healthy, ready-to-eat meals in the freezer is a game-changer. Some of my favorites included breakfast burritos, oatmeal bake, soups for the slow cooker, lasagna, taco meat, and breakfast casserole.

Why breakfast? Because mornings with a newborn can feel like chaos. A quick, nutritious meal can help fuel your day without relying on sugary snacks or endless takeout. Bonus: You’ll feel so much better physically when you’re eating real food. A little postpartum prep in the kitchen can save your sanity—and your energy.

Here’s an extensive list of freezer recipes from my go-to meal planning website.

4. Motion Sensor Nightlight for the Bathroom

This might seem random, but hear me out. When we moved into our first home, there was a motion-sensor nightlight in the bathroom that we didn’t think much about—until baby came. In those early postpartum weeks, when you’re up multiple times a night, the last thing you want is to flip on a blinding overhead light. A soft, automatic glow that guides your way is just… magical. It’s the little things that make such a difference.

5. Waterproof Mattress Pads (x2!)

When I was pregnant with my first, I bought a waterproof mattress pad because I was sure my water would break dramatically in the middle of the night (spoiler: it didn’t). Even though my cinematic labor moment never happened, I’m so glad we had that pad. Babies are messy, and so are kids (and let’s be honest, so are parents sometimes).

From diaper leaks and spit-up in the early days to sick toddlers climbing into bed with you later, a waterproof mattress protector is your best friend. Oh, and let’s not forget about the time I spilled an entire cup of coffee during a Mother’s Day breakfast-in-bed situation. Just trust me—this is one of those things you’ll thank yourself for having. And pro tip: buy two. When one is in the wash, you’ll be glad to have a backup.

Final Thoughts on Postpartum Prep

Motherhood is full of surprises, but with a little extra postpartum prep, you can make those first weeks and months a bit smoother. These unexpected essentials were more helpful than I ever imagined, and I hope they’ll make a difference for you, too.

Don’t Forget to Capture the Moment

As a newborn photographer, I know how quickly those early days with your baby fly by. Between the sleepless nights and endless feedings, it can all feel like a blur. That’s why I’m here to help you preserve the beauty of this season with stunning, heartfelt images you’ll treasure forever.

If you’re preparing for your baby’s arrival, let’s chat about scheduling your newborn session. Whether it’s in the studio or the comfort of your home, I’ll create a stress-free experience so you can focus on your baby.

Ready to book your session or learn more? Click here to get started!