In the early postpartum days, the only clothes you’ll probably want to wear are postpartum robes, comfortable postpartum underwear and baggy sweats. After enduring nine months of pregnancy, labor and giving birth, the thought of sliding into anything but a soft, comfortable and easy on-off robe is enough to give you the shakes.
The good news is that most hospitals provide some sort of robe for the labor and postpartum period; the bad news is that they are incredibly thin and scratchy to say that least. For this reason, it’s a smart idea to purchase your own comfortable robe in advance and pack it in your hospital bag so you have it handy when you need it. Not only are these robes like blankets wrapped around you, but they make it easier for the nursing staff to perform abdomen and vital checks and even change out your postpartum diapers and underwear.
When it comes time to head home from the hospital, postpartum robes are essential for those first few weeks at home while you recover from childbirth. If you plan to have friends and family over while you’re figuring out the ropes with breastfeeding, a robe can be a great additional layer to help provide privacy. Some friends even love sleeping in their robes to make middle-of-the-night feeds easier. No matter what the scenario, postpartum robes make the early days much more comfortable—and cute, thanks to fun patterns and colors.
To find the best postpartum robes, we went straight to the experts themselves: veteran moms. Some used their robes as a security blanket for weeks and some used them when others were around and they wanted more coverage when nursing. So whether you’re sticking around the house, running errands or even sleeping in your postpartum robe, here are a few things to consider when shopping for a postpartum robe.
What to look for in Postpartum Robes:
Choosing postpartum robes can be a fun and practical decision, as they can enhance comfort and convenience during a time when feeling comfortable is especially important. Here are some factors to consider when looking for postpartum robes:
- Material: Opt for soft, breathable and comfortable fabrics. Natural fibers like cotton or bamboo are often recommended for their breathability and softness against sensitive postpartum skin. Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle feeding, your nipples will probably be sensitive, so having a soft material that lays against your skin is crucial. These materials can also help regulate body temperature, which can be important during hormonal changes. Hello, not-so-friendly night sweats!
- Color: Choose a style and design that you find appealing and comfortable. Patterns can hide stains easily, which new moms will often face from breast milk, formula, spit-up and a handful of other bodily fluids.
- Size: Choose a robe that accommodates your postpartum body. It’s common for new mothers to experience changes in size and shape, so a robe that is adjustable or has a loose fit can be more comfortable and versatile.
- Washability: Check the care instructions for the robe. Given the likelihood of spills or stains during postpartum recovery, a robe that is easy to wash and care for can be practical.
- Length: Consider the length of the robe. Some women prefer longer robes for extra coverage, while others may find shorter robes more comfortable, especially if they are moving around frequently.
- Pockets: Pockets are a practical feature that is a huge bonus to have in a postpartum robe. Having a place to store small essentials like nursing pads, lip balm or your phone is nice, especially when mom-brain has you forgetting where everything is.
The Best 8 Postpartum Robes:
ergoPouch 0.2
If you’re someone who packs their hospital bag weeks in advance and prepares for the initial newborn and family photos, this postpartum robe is right up your alley. It comes in a variety of coordinating colors and prints so you can match your baby’s sleep sacks, swaddles, and onesies. It’s soft and forgiving for the postpartum body and can be worn through your next pregnancy and beyond.
Roxanne T, mom of 3 recounts how the initial days in the hospitals and at home are for living in a postpartum robe. And a super soft robe is what you should look for. “I love the robes by ErgoPouch. They’re so soft and forgiving for the postpartum body,” she says. “I live in multiple colors for the first month of postpartum, because it’s still acceptable to not get dressed in real clothes or do anything for that month.”
What we love:
- Available in three prints and colors to match newborns
- Long length provides coverage
- Adjustable fit for the fluctuating body
What we would change:
- Would like to see a wider range of colors.
Quick Facts:
- Size: One Size
- Colors: available in five colors and prints
- Materials: Cotton
- Care: Machine Wash
Buy now on Amazon; $60
Amazon Essentials Waffle Robe
This is the best gift you can buy for a pregnant or postpartum mom. It’s super soft and stretchy and provides great coverage so you don’t feel like you’re constantly flashing everyone around you. It has a comfortable and relaxed fit. The waffle cotton blend makes it super cozy but breathable for all year-round comfort.
What we love:
- It’s made from breathable, lightweight fabric that keeps you cool and comfortable.
- Pockets are great for storing essentials.
- Wide size range.
[H3] What we would change:
- A closure for the top in addition to the waist closure.
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS-7X
- Colors: Available in 16 colors
- Materials: Waffle
- Care: Machine Wash & Tumble Dry
Buy now on Amazon; $22.80
Kickee Storks Maternity/Nursing Robe
For the bougie mamas, this beautiful postpartum robe is stylish and functional for postpartum and beyond. It has pockets which are so useful for new moms, it’s incredibly soft, loose and stretchy. It’s easy to wash and care for and makes the perfect gift for new mamas. It comes with the cutest matching baby gown and knot hat.
What we love:
- Can be worn outside the house
- Beautiful pattern hides stains
- Thin material is great for managing postpartum hormones
What we would change:
- Hand washing only makes washing time between wears long.
Quick Facts:
- Size: One size
- Colors: available in seven prints
- Materials: 55% Cupro 45% Lyocell
- Care: Hand Wash only
Buy now on Amazon; $96.50
Barefoot Dreams Cozychic Robe
In the early postpartum days, your skin can be sensitive, so it’s important to look for postpartum robes and postpartum pajamas that are soft and won’t irritate your skin. Barefoot Dreams is known for having incredible quality. The super soft material is great for sensitive skin and this robe is extra long, great to snuggle up in as you heal.
What we love:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Super soft against sensitive skin
- Extra long length
What we would change:
- A more diverse range of colors.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 3
- Colors: Heahter grey
- Materials: Polyester
- Care: Machine Wash
Buy now on Amazon; $135
BearBerry Hooded Robe
This is the security blanket of postpartum robes. Warm and cozy, this plush robe doesn’t feel overly heavy, it feels like you’re wrapped in a giant comforting hug. The playful pattern makes the most basic leggings and sweaters look a bit more elevated and stylish. And it can withstand constant washing.
A mom of two, Nicole, lived in this during her postpartum days. “I loved the pattern and the robe was super plush and cozy,” said Nicole. “I probably wore this every day for two months and it held up great to all the washing – which happened often thanks to my baby’s spit up.”
What we love:
- The hood provides extra warmth
- Plush material is super cozy
- Playful patterns look cute
What we would change:
- The outer tie is thin
Quick Facts:
- Size: One Size
- Colors: Available in seven colors
- Materials: 100% Polyester
- Care: Machine wash
Buy now on Amazon; $39.99
Amazon Essentials Lightweight Waffle Robe
With over 10,000 reviews on Amazon and a rave review from mom of two Sarah, it’s very clear why this robe is amazing for postpartum. From the fit to the weight and style of this robe, everything is perfect, says Sarah. “The robe is roomy enough to layer over my pajamas, but also soft and cozy enough to wear on its own.” But the best part — it has deep pockets. You know how some robe pockets are shallow and your phone easily falls out? Not these. “The pockets were deep so my essentials — phone, paci, nipple cream, emotional support protein bar — were never far from reach,” raved Sarah.
Bonus: there’s a tie on the inside so you’re almost guaranteed not to flash anyone unexpectedly.
What we love:
- Inside tie for extra security
- Size inclusive
- Pockets for holding essentials
What we would change:
- Runs big on top
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS-7X
- Colors: available in 15 colors
- Materials: cotton and polyester
- Care: machine wash
Buy now on Amazon; $24.95
Posh Peanut Maternity Robe
Even if you’re not a robe person, you’re going to love this one. Buttery soft and cooling to the touch, this postpartum robe is a treat The robes have beautifully complementing gowns, swaddle sets, and other items in various prints and colors so you can mix and match your matching wardrobes even beyond the newborn stage.
What we love:
- Matches newborn gowns
- Lightweight and breathable
- Soft against sensitive skin
What we would change:
- No pockets
Quick Facts:
- Size: S-3XL
- Colors: available in 11 colors
- Materials: Bamboo, viscose and spandex
- Care: machine wash cold
Buy now on Amazon; $58
Ekouaer Womens Maternity Nursing Gown and Robe Set
Last but not least, this postpartum robe and gown set is an awesome bang for your buck. The robe is flowy and soft and comes with a coordinating gown that is comfortable and provides easy access to feeding. Mom of two, Alyssa, had a scheduled C-section and knew she didn’t want anything tight around her belly during recovery so she found this set and lived in it for weeks. “For my second baby I knew I was having a c-section and I knew that I wanted a robe for recovery. I found this set that checked all my boxes and was thrilled with the quality. The loose gown was comfortable and the coordinating robe made me feel like I put effort into my look, which was a complete after thought.”
What we love:
- The robe comes as part of a set with a matching gown
- Easy access to nurse
- Super soft
What we would change:
- Runs big
Quick Facts:
- Size: S -2XL
- Colors: available in 13 colors
- Materials: Polyester, spandex
- Care: hand wash only
Buy now on Amazon; $34.98
One Last Thing: FAQ
If you’re still considering if a postpartum robe will be helpful or necessary, the overwhelming answers from moms with experience is yes. They provide comfort and ease in a time when you are most vulnerable. Based off the crowd sourcing from friends and fellow moms, here are some things to consider in helping you make the decision to get yourself a cozy postpartum robe.
Why might a postpartum robe be helpful?
Postpartum robes are helpful for women as they provide comfort during the post-childbirth recovery period, offering soft and easily adjustable options for changing body sizes. Additionally, these robes offer convenient access for breastfeeding and a sense of modesty, making them a practical and comfortable choice for new mothers.
What’s the most comfortable fabric for C-section recovery?
If you’ve had a c-section, you’ll want to look for loose-fitting postpartum robes in soft and breathable fabrics. Comfortable fabrics like cotton, jersey, or bamboo will not irritate a c-section incision and provide comfort during a time when the body is recovering from a serious surgery.
How can you figure out what size postpartum robe is best?
To determine the best size for a postpartum robe, measure your bust, waist, and hips and refer to the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. If you’re in between sizes, consider anticipated changes in body size during the postpartum period and opt for a slightly larger size or a robe with adjustable features so you can ensure a comfortable and accommodating fit.
