If we could simplify pregnancy and baby wellness products into three simple categories when shopping that would be ideal. But while we can’t necessarily make that happen across the board, we can help you house your pregnancy and motherhood must-haves into three(ish) categories for the best products for mums and bubs.
While we trust the products we love, we would always recommend consulting a doctor if you’re unsure about what ingredients to use (as the evidence is hard to find on some and every body and bub is different!).
So, here are our categories of the best products for mums and bubs…
The Best Products for Bubs and Mums Antenatal and Postnatal
Products For: Mums During Pregnancy
Dr. LeWinn’s Recoverëderm Ultra-Calming Restorative Cleanser
We Say: Picking a gentle cleanser for pregnancy is so important. A quick Google finds a whole world of misinformation about washing your face while pregnant, so we’re here to bust those myths. Cleanser is safe to use during pregnancy, but ensuring you’re consulting your doctor with any products you may try is always recommended. Looking for products that are free from alcohol, parabens, sulphates and fragrance is a big tick in our books, too. And Dr. LeWinn’s restorative cleanser is all of those, leaving your hormone-fraught skin nourished and soft.
You Say: “The Ultra Calming Restorative Cleanser is probably the first cleanser I have used (by any brand) that has left my face feeling so soft and nourished. I honestly feel like I don’t even have to use any moisturiser once I’m done cleansing. This cleanser has a gel-like texture. It glides on the face very easily and leaves your face feeling nice and smooth. Smell isn’t strong at all. Very gentle feeling.” – Priyanka705
Want to read more? Read Dr. LeWinn’s Recoverëderm Ultra-Calming Restorative Cleanser Reviews here…
$29.95 at Dr. LeWinns
E45 Itch Recovery Moisturising Wash
We Say: This hypoallergenic, derm-tested, pH balanced wash is going to be the wash to save your itchy, growing sensitive skin. Formulated with colloidal oatmeal to soothe itchiness and redness, it also features ceramides that add natural moisture back into your skin. Your bump will keep on growing, but you can say goodbye to the accompanying itchiness.
Want to read more? Read E45 Itch Recovery Moisturising Wash Reviews here…
$12.39 at Chemist Warehouse
Organic Formulations 100% Organic Rosehip Oil
We Say: A total key essential to ensure elasticity with any growing skin? A good oil. This lightweight rejuvenating organic rosehip oil will save your skin from stretch marks (not that there’s anything wrong with them, but we know some people are searching for solutions). Massage this across growing skin (hips and bum as well as bump) to maintain your skin’s supple elasticity.
Want to read more? Read Organic Formulations 100% Organic Rosehip Oil Reviews here…
$20.95 at Martin and Pleasance
Bath Soaks
Look we know you’re not meant to sit in a piping hot bath tub, but the pregnancy aches and pains are real. So, getting yourself a rejuvenating bath soak will do wonders to your mind body and spirit. For relaxation, aim for the Buckley & Phillips Aromatics Gumleaf Essentials Bath Soak in ‘Relaxing’ ($23.95 at Buckley and Phillips). For restoration, the Dr Teal’s Pink Himalayan Epsom Salt ($20 at Big W) soak will do wonders. And for a gentle, yet reparative approach the Bathefex Fragrance Free Epsom Salt ($12 at Big W) is what you need.
Products For: Mums Post-Pregnancy
Isocol Rubbing Alcohol Antiseptic Anti-Bacterial Lotion
We say: Once you welcome your bub into the world all you can think about is protecting them. And aside from the obvious physical side (holding their heads and what not), you’re going to want to protect them from germs. So keeping an easy to spritz antibacterial lotion on hand at all times is the way to go!
Want to read more? Read Isocol Rubbing Alcohol Antiseptic Anti-Bacterial Lotion Reviews here…
$6.89 at Priceline
Habitual Beauty Advanced Skin + Gut Health Collagen Elixir
We Say: These sachets are jam packed with collagen boosting, skin (and gut) loving ingredients. Made with pre, pro and post-biotics, amino acids and too many vitamins to list, your body will be loving all the extra support. And while they aren’t safe for consumption during pregnancy, they are an incredible postpartum addition to mum life.
You Say: “Ok taste aside, these pack some serious ingredients. I think my gut health improved noticeably when I drank either of these flavours for morning tea. I felt less bloated which is a huge win for me. I have also had more energy in the afternoons and less of a sugar craving in the late afternoon which is a huge change for me. My hair hasn’t changed noticeably but my nails have been growing much stronger which is a huge change for me as I have had flaky weak nails my whole life. This Elixir is definitely packed with the right ingredients because these changes are huge for me and such a win.” – GigiandBobbi
Want to read more? Read Habitual Beauty Advanced Skin + Gut Health Collagen Elixir Reviews here…
$110 at Habitual Beauty
Lady Jayne Restorative Scalp Brush
We say: Postpartum hair loss is real and it can be totally devastating to lose all that luscious hair that miraculously grew throughout pregnancy. Lucky for us, Lady Jayne’s Scalp Brush is here to save your strands. The circulation-stimulating bristles help to promote new hair growth as well as removing any product build-up (because we know it’s been a while since you last washed your hair, and TBH, us too).
You say: “I have thin hair that falls and breaks easily, so I thought this might not be suitable for me. But I was wrong and I actually really like it. I just sort of move it back and forth a little on my scalp while shampooing, it feels really good and lathers the shampoo up nicely. I have psoriasis on my scalp also, and I feel it’s really good at helping with that.” – Jessi
Want to read more? Read Lady Jayne Restorative Scalp Brush Reviews here…
$22.99 at Lady Jayne
Products For: Bubs
GAIA Skin Natural Baby – Baby Starter Kit
We Say: This is the perfect kit for new parents to get a feel for the GAIA products and to make sure they work for their bub. Cruelty-free and made in Australia from pure, natural, organic ingredients (free from any nasties), you can trust this kit to be safe to use and cleanse your little one. Bonus: they come in a handy clear case, perfect for sleep-deprived brains when you’re trying to remember where you left the products.
You Say: “I purchased this for the purpose of wanting to try GAIA products but didn’t want to spend all the money on the big bottles in case I wasn’t satisfied. These are the perfect size to try and super convenient for travelling. The clear pouch is handy as all the products are in the same place. The products themselves are quite moisturising and smell great, I would definitely repurchase in the bigger sized bottles.” – Kay kay
Want to read more? Read GAIA Skin Natural Baby Starter Kit Reviews here…
$10.19 at Chemist Warehouse
Swisspers® Baby Cleansing Pads
We Say: Boasting ‘super gentle’ status, these cleansing pads are the perfect cleansing addition to get into all those soft, squishy folds. Don’t be afraid to get them wet as they’re super absorbent and designed to not fall apart when moisture hits. Bonus: they’re made from sustainably-sourced cotton.
You Say: “ I recently tried these and I will never be going back to another brand or product. These are the best, the quality is superior and does not disintegrate or get ruined. It is such a large pad and can cover a large surface area. I used it to remove my make-up and clean my face as well. I have cut it into smaller pieces as you only require half of it to clean your face. It’s super soft and does not irritate the skin. The pad is made from sustainable cotton and is Australian-owned. Totally loved it, and great value for money.” – Sandyt
Want to read more? Read Swisspers® Baby Cleansing Pads Reviews here…
$3.74 at Chemist Warehouse
GAIA Natural Baby – Bamboo Baby Wipes
We Say: Ultra-soft bamboo that cares for your bub’s butt at the same time as the environment? A total win. Having a newborn is a lot of work, and making environmentally-friendly changes can take one thing off your busy mind. These biodegradable, organic aloe vera and chamomile infused (to moisturise and soothe) wipes are gently naturally scented to help with… well, you know.
You Say: “I was gifted these Green packet Gaia Baby wipes in a 3 pack for my newborn baby, I use them all the time now! No nappy rash or redness when I use them and they are not too thin either, and here and there I’ve even used them on myself! No strong scent, which is just what you want for a baby’s bottom!” – Queen_Heidi_15
Want to read more? Read GAIA Natural Baby – Bamboo Baby Wipes Reviews here…$5.99 at Gaia Skin Naturals
In Essence Animal Diffuser & Humidifier
We Say: If someone gifts you one more muslin cloth, you might just scream. Instead of that, put a PSA out there that what your bub really needs is a diffuser-humidifier combo (oh yeah, and this one looks like a frog!). Setting the perfect nighttime routine, and being able to control the climate in your baby’s space when the air is too dry, this little frog will become your bedtime bestfriend (and theirs!).
You Say: “Absolutely love this frog! Firstly, it’s a super cute ornament! A great decoration for the room. Better yet, it’s very functional too. I’ve primarily used the diffuser and I’m very impressed. I’ve used various essential oils and it fills the room with a delicious aroma. The diffuser function can be very calming and relaxing. It’s an awesome gift too!” – Jessie Newton
Want to read more? Read In Essence Animal Diffuser & Humidifier Reviews here…
$79.95 at Funki Munki
DermaVeen Baby Calmexa® Soap Free Wash & Shampoo
We Say: Working to gently protect your bub’s delicate skin with over 87 per cent naturally-derived ingredients, this multi-purpose pH friendly, soap-free wash will protect their skin’s barrier while still cleansing away the day.
Want to read more? Read DermaVeen Baby Calmexa® Soap Free Wash & Shampoo Reviews here…
$8.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Amazing For All
E45 Cream
We Say: In the busy rush of newborn life, the last thing you need to be thinking about is your ‘to restock’ list as your essentials run out. Enter: E45 Cream. The derm-approved, medical grade moisturiser is safe for use for the whole family. Help soothe nappy rash while fighting away your own dry (and eczema-prone) skin. With a super fast-absorbing formula, the cream can be used multiple times a day.
You Say: “I am extremely impressed with the results from E45 Cream. Before I started using this cream, my eczema was incredibly itchy and uncomfortable, and I was constantly searching for something to relieve the symptoms. But since I started using the E45 cream, my eczema has improved significantly. The cream is very moisturising, which has helped to soothe my dry, itchy skin. It also absorbs quickly, which is great because I don’t have to wait long before getting dressed. Additionally, it is very easy to apply and is non-greasy, which is a huge plus, because I don’t like feeling greasy or oily when I put cream on my skin. It has been a game-changer for me and always leaves my skin feeling and looking so hydrated.” – rei_ward
Want to read more? Read E45 Cream Reviews here…
$16.69 at Chemist Warehouse
Main Image Credit: @kourtneykardash
What’s your pregnancy must have? Do you have any skincare tips for new mums?
I remember taking vitamins during pregnancy, but I don’t recall which products I used on myself during or after pregnancy. I also remember all the products I used on baby – nappy creams, wipes, natural oils for cradle cap, body lotions for massages, bath washes etc.
No I didn’t get hung up on products either but would have loved some of these products.
Baby oil was my best friend during the pregnancy, I didn’t get any stretch marks because I was using it every day.
I’ve never been pregnant but rosehip oil is great!
I’ve only parented fur babies. One of them had dermatitis so I had to apply various topicals to look after his skin as poor baby was very itchy.
Well past this age but some lovely products for Mum’s to be.
Diffuser looks so much fun!
I am so pleased that I am well past worrying about this sort of thing.
Nice to add for a present for a new mum though.
Definitely agree, I am currently almost 30 weeks along and a gift pack of some of these goodies would be amazing.
So much for lucky bubs these days! Cute frog!
Very cute frog !!
Helpful suggestions.
The diffuser is so cute!
I first started with the Gaia travel size pack when my first born was a baby and then bought full size from there loved that brand.
Some great suggestions for gift packs for a baby shower.
My main tip is to eat healthy foods and look after yourself.Try to take a rest when you get tired but most of all be kind to yourself. It is an exciting time so enjoy if you can
I’ll take the Itch Wash please.
Gaia is such a good brand for babies.
Want that frog diffuser 🐸
Oils and creams for my tummy.
My skin is very prone to stretch marks nothing helped but i kept hydrating my skin as much as possible
There are some lovely ideas her for the coming xmas that new mum’s would love.
Am currently pregnant so this list will come in very handy.
Come back to this article to say the itch recovery cream is so helpful! Thank you!
Gaia brand makes decent products, though they are a bit pricey. I second rosehip oil! I still use it now few years postpartum
I only recently found out you need to avoid retinols while breastfeeding/pregnant – I had no idea you had to be so careful with what you put on your skin as well.
Nice to buy new mum’s a treat to make them feel good about themselves