Birth Kit Upgrades

Birth kits are a wonderful way to make sure all of the essential supplies to help your birth run smoothly are readily available on the big day. However, for mamas who want options, there are countless products that can improve upon the birth kit. Take a look at some of my favorites.

I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. You may find better prices on listed products from other vendors. I encourage you to shop around for the best deal.

Disposable Postpartum Underwear

There are amazing options for disposable underwear. Fridamom has a wonderful, soft and stretchy, disposable boy brief. This is a great option, but you’ll need to add a heavy duty overnight pad to manage your postpartum bleeding.

My personal favorite is a classic depends. While this is included in your birth kit, you can get a whole pack or a “high-end” version. The benefit of depends is that you don’t need to add a pad. With disposable underwear like Fridamom’s, leaks are inevitable. Depends bring an extra line of defense since they provide a larger absorbent area.

Moms looking for an organic option can check out the Rael Organic Cotton Cover Period Underwear.

You might not win a fashion contest, but you’ll feel comfortable and secure!

Mattress Bag

Birth is unpredictable. At any time leading up to delivery your water could break, the under-pads meant to contain the mess could slip, or your baby may decide to make his/her entrance before we’ve sorted out the pad situation. The mattress bag is a must-have protection to prevent ruining your mattress. However, the crinkly plastic can drive some parents crazy. Check out these waterproof mattress pads that can bring softer, more comfortable protection.

Paper Towels

You may already have paper towels on hand or you may want to purchase something stronger. Keep it simple with something like Bounty quick size. Please note, these paper towels will be cleaning up the messiest messes, so a non-disposable option is not a good idea for your birth kit. Save those for household needs.

Peri Bottle

The classic peri bottle is wonderful to keep your postpartum bottom clean while minimizing irritation. They are especially helpful for trips to the bathroom when you have stitches. Brands like Frida mom have improved upon the classic design with bottles that are easier to use. Take a look at these options…

Perineal Cold Pack

Inevitably, your bottom will be sore after birthing a baby. Perineal cold packs soothe soreness and reduce swelling. You can make your own by putting a tablespoon of witch hazel on a menstrual pad and freezing them or by buying more instant ice packs. You can even purchase reusable ice packs if laundry doesn’t phase you. Any of these options are great to tuck into your disposable underwear and get your bottom well on its way to recovery.

Supplies to make your own cold packs…

Instant Cold Packs…

Reusable Cold Packs…

Straws

Hydration during labor and postpartum is essential. Especially while laboring, drinks may be the only form of replenishment you can get down. Having straws handy so that you can drink in a variety of labor and pushing positions is a life saver. Your birth kit has very basic plastic straws. More health and environment conscious mamas may prefer glass or metal options. They are particularly great when you’re sipping a warm cup of postpartum tea, nursing your baby and wanting to leave any plastic leaching behind. Ahhh…such a victorious moment!