How to Make Padcicles for Postpartum Recovery
When my baby arrived earlier than expected, I didn’t have the chance to make the padcicles I’d planned to prep. Luckily, the hospital had some ice packs for down there (bless them!), but as soon as I got home, I gave it a go. Spoiler: I'm glad I did.
Postpartum recovery can feel like a whirlwind of emotions and physical adjustments, but one thing I learned is that prioritising self-care makes all the difference. Today, I’m sharing everything you need to know to make your own padcicles. Whether you’re a first-time mum or adding to your family, these icy little lifesavers will give you the relief you deserve.
Why Padcicles?
Padcicles are essentially frozen pads infused with healing ingredients. They help soothe soreness, reduce swelling, and speed up recovery. If you’ve experienced perineal tearing, stitches, or just general discomfort (hello, postpartum life), these are a must-have in your recovery toolkit.
What You’ll Need
Here’s the beauty of padcicles—they’re easy to make, and most of the ingredients are natural and soothing.
• Maternity pads: The thicker, the better. I used Libra Ultra Thin Goodnight Pads with Wings.
• Aloe vera gel: Look for one that’s 100% pure and free from additives.
• Witch hazel: Alcohol-free is best to avoid irritation.
• Coconut oil (optional): For extra moisture and soothing properties.
• Essential oils (optional): A few drops of lavender can add a calming effect.
You’ll also need:
• Aluminum foil or cling wrap for wrapping.• A freezer-safe container to keep them organized.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Padcicles
1. Prep Your Workspace
Lay out your pads on a clean and sanitized surface. Keep the adhesive backing intact, but fold back the wings if your pads have them.
2. Add Aloe Vera
Lay out your pads on a clean and sanitized surface. Keep the adhesive backing intact, but fold back the wings if your pads have them.
2. Add Aloe Vera
I used Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel, and have been using this for years (mainly as after sun care).
Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly. Mr looked at me funny while I was doing this.
3. Spritz with Witch Hazel
Use a small spray bottle to spritz witch hazel over the aloe vera layer.
4. Optional Add-Ins
Add a few drops of coconut oil or organic lavender essential oil for extra soothing and calming benefits.
5. Wrap and Freeze
Fold the pad back into its original shape, then wrap it in foil or cling wrap. Place it in your freezer-safe container.
6. Freeze
Allow the padcicles to freeze for at least 4 hours before use.
• If stored properly, they’ll last a few months in the freezer—perfect for those early weeks postpartum.
• Other Recovery Must-Haves: Sitz bath soak (look for epsom salt with herbs), a peri bottle or pump lip water bottle (trust me, this will save you), a comfy nursing pillow, and snacks for those late-night feeds.
3. Spritz with Witch Hazel
Use a small spray bottle to spritz witch hazel over the aloe vera layer.
It should feel damp but not soaking wet.
(I skipped this part because I couldn't find this locally, thankfully when letting the pharmacist know what I wanted Witch Hazel for she steered me away from the one I was going to buy because it had alcohol in it.. that would have stung!)
If I had more time I would have ordered Zongle USDA Certified Organic Witch Hazel.
4. Optional Add-Ins
Add a few drops of coconut oil or organic lavender essential oil for extra soothing and calming benefits.
5. Wrap and Freeze
Fold the pad back into its original shape, then wrap it in foil or cling wrap. Place it in your freezer-safe container.
6. Freeze
Allow the padcicles to freeze for at least 4 hours before use.
How to Padcicles for Postpartum Care
Simply grab a padcicle from the freezer, unwrap it, and let it sit for a minute to soften slightly. Wear it like a normal pad, and enjoy the cooling, soothing relief. You can use them multiple times a day during the first week postpartum, or whenever you need extra comfort.
Tips for New Mums
• Make bout 5-10 to see how often you use them. You can always make more as needed.• If stored properly, they’ll last a few months in the freezer—perfect for those early weeks postpartum.
• Other Recovery Must-Haves: Sitz bath soak (look for epsom salt with herbs), a peri bottle or pump lip water bottle (trust me, this will save you), a comfy nursing pillow, and snacks for those late-night feeds.
If you’re in Australia, I recommend checking out Chemist Warehouse or Big-W for postpartum essentials.
Postpartum recovery is no joke, but little things like padcicles can make it so much comfier. They’re a simple way to give your body some much-needed love while you focus on your new little bundle.
If you’ve made padcicles or have any other postpartum tips, I’d love to hear about them! Drop a comment below or share your story with me—I’m all about helping new mums feel supported.
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