My postpartum must-haves by Milk Label Co-Founder, Christina Symes

Motherhood has a funny way of revealing what really earns its place in your everyday. After spending the last few months on maternity leave, I’ve found myself reaching for a handful of products on repeat, the little luxuries, everyday essentials and can’t-live-withouts that made the beautiful, messy, and more often than not chaotic days so much better. Consider this my edit of postpartum MVPs, tried, tested and very much loved by yours truly.

1. Bugaboo ‘Kangaroo’ Stroller: I honestly can't tell you how many kilometres this stroller has clocked during nap time. The number is astronomical! With its all-terrain wheels, it's been perfect for just about every outing. If you have a motion-nap baby, I see you. This one's for you.
2. Mammae ‘Early Days Breast Care’ and Nipple Balm: I came dangerously close to mastitis a few times when I had an oversupply of milk, and these products were absolute lifesavers. Hands down, some of my most-used early postpartum essentials.
3. Wylk ‘Postpartum Recovery Set’: An absolute hospital bag MUST. During my first two weeks postpartum, I was incredibly swollen, tender and bleeding quite heavily. I actually ordered a restock almost immediately after having my baby because of just how supportive and essential this entire range was. Trust me, you'll want this one ready to go.
4. Milk Label Leakproof Bras and Underwear: All day, every day. To put it simply, I don't really know what it feels like to leak milk because I never feel wet. They feel just like wearing a normal everyday bra, but are incredibly easy and comfortable to feed in. And I'm not just saying this because it's my brand, but these bras and matching underwear sets really are elite.

5. Silverettes for nipple care: Your nipples are suddenly working overtime, and those first few weeks can leave them feeling incredibly tender. Pair a little nipple balm with some breathable silverettes to help protect and soothe them while everything finds its rhythm.
6. Baby Björn Bouncer with Mini Coton cover: Your baby is going to watch you shower and go to the toilet approximately 847 times. If bouncing counted towards your daily step count, my baby would have run multiple marathons by now. An absolute lifesaver for those moments when you need two hands free.
7. Sable Bebe Nursing Pillow: That extra support while feeding your baby is SO important. Whether you're feeding around the clock or settling in for a longer feed, your back, shoulders and neck will thank you.
8. Bedside Essentials - A few little things that make those middle-of-the-night wake-ups that much easier: the biggest drink bottle you can find (preferably with a handle and straw – your mouth will feel like the Sahara Desert when you wake up for a feed), a dimmable night light (this one is brilliant because it switches off when you flip it upside down), nappies and wipes, burp cloths and, most importantly, snacks. Always snacks.