Here’s what you should pack in your hospital bag. Your due date is quickly approaching, and it’s time to prepare your hospital bag.
Not sure where to begin? Here are some suggestions.
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
One should have their hospital bag packed by 36 or 37 weeks pregnant in case you go into labor before your due date.
It’s okay to throw some items in at the last minute, such as your toothbrush. But by this point in your pregnancy, you’ll want your bag mostly packed and easily accessible. However, you need some items that will make you feel at ease and remind you of home.
Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you might want or need in the hospital.
Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom
Comfortable Clothing
Postpartum, comfortable clothing is crucial. Keep a few options in mind in case of a C-section. And avoid anything too constricting (aside from a supportive bra). Pack a nursing bra or tank if you plan to breastfeed after delivery. Wear your tank top with joggers or lightweight sleep pants that are soft and loose. Packing a nursing-friendly pajama set or nightgown is another option.
Postpartum leggings (such as these from Belly Bandit) can also be very comfortable. Pack a dark-colored sports bra or a bathing suit top if you intend to work in water at any point. Slipper socks are ideal for keeping feet warm in footwear (and for gripping slippy hospital floors). Bring slip-on shoes, such as clogs or flip-flops, for the trip home. Because your feet may swell from IV fluids, you’ll appreciate shoes that are easy to slide.
A Robe
One of the best postpartum clothing items is a comfortable robe. It comes in handy if you have a vaginal delivery or a C-section.
Toiletries
Don’t forget about these! You’ll need a hairbrush, regular shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, lip balm, extra hair ties, and face wipes (if you don’t feel like showering immediately). If you wear contacts or glasses, keep extras on hand.
Your Birth Plan
If you have a birth plan, print and bring several copies: one for your chart, one for your labor nurse(s), and possibly one to tape up in your hospital room. Highlighting the main points for quick reference is a good idea.
A Cell Phone Charging Extra-Long Cord
Usually, hospital beds are extremely far from an electrical outlet. Thus, you’ll need a fully charged phone to take all the pictures of your new baby and video chat with excited friends and family.
Drinks and Snacks
Bring a reusable water bottle and an electrolyte drink, such as Gatorade or coconut water, if you want something other than water. You’ll also need easy-to-eat snacks, like bars, pretzels, dried fruit, etc.
Pillows and a Bath Towel
Hospital towels, it turns out, are the polar opposite of luxurious hotel towels—thin, scratchy, and far too small. You might be glad you brought a towel from home for your first post-delivery shower. We also advise bringing your pillow.
Nipple Cream
If you plan to breastfeed, your nipples will appreciate your thoughtfulness.
Adult Diapers and other Postpartum Care Items
The hospital will provide pads and mesh underwear (or you can bring your own). But many parents report adult diapers were more comfortable and secure. Reusable postpartum absorbent underwear is another option to consider. A perineal spray is also a valuable addition to your postpartum kit. Do you want everything in one place? Consider purchasing a postpartum recovery kit.
Portable Bluetooth Speaker and a Spotify Playlist
For some, listening to music during labor can be beneficial. Make a playlist with a lot of songs on it. Labour can last for 24 hours or more, and you don’t want to listen to the same songs over and over. You might find that you need silence instead.
Other Essentials
Bring a diffuser to the hospital and use it to make your room smell like a spa. If you cannot open windows, a portable fan can be helpful.
Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby
After you complete packing your hospital bag, move on to the essentials for the baby.
A Car Seat
If you’re driving home, this is a must—they won’t let you take your baby home from the hospital without a car seat, which you should install beforehand.
A Get-Away Outfit
Because you don’t know how big or small your baby will be, pack two different outfits in different sizes! Aim for one newborn dress and one 0-3 months outfit. Remember to bring hats and socks if the weather is appropriate for it.
The Paediatrician’s Information
The GPs and nurses will ask for this information several times, so keep it handy. Include the pediatrician’s office’s email or fax number so they can easily forward your baby’s medical records.
Bottles (if you plan to use)
Bring at least two bottles to the hospital if you plan to bottle-feed from the start. If you plan to formula feed, bring some of your preferred brands. However, the hospital will almost undoubtedly have samples for you.
About Nurturey Pregnancy App
Nurturey’s PinkBook is a “digital substitute” for the NHS’s Red Book. Pregnant women and parents can use the PinkBook to access their child’s health records, view upcoming health checkups, and get trusted information from the NHS about their stage in the parenting or pregnancy journey. If you are pregnant and have concerns, you can easily book an appointment with your GP/midwife using the Nurturey pregnancy app. You can also make appointments, refill prescriptions, and communicate with your general practitioner.