You probably know yourself well enough to determine if you are the type of person who is typically early, on time, or late. With baby on the way, there is a lot to prepare for. One of the things you can take care of ahead of time is preparing to go to the hospital for delivery. With this in mind, what should you pack in your hospital bag? Check out the ultimate hospital bag checklist for mom below.
THE ULTIMATE HOSPITAL BAG CHECKLIST FOR MOM
Toiletries
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shower stuff, brush, face wash, makeup, etc.
These might be the last items you add to your bag if you use them on a daily basis, however; it’s good to think about what you’d like to bring so you can be packed in a pinch.
Eyewear
- Glasses or contacts with solution (if you wear them)
The last thing you want to do it forget an extra set of contacts. If you normally wear contacts but don’t want to worry about taking them out each night, you may consider bringing your glasses.
Clothing
- Lounge wear, nursing bra or tank, extra underwear or adult diapers, nightgown or pajamas, robe, cozy socks with grip or slippers, flip flops, warm clothing, going-home outfit
When it comes to attire in the hospital, comfort is key. If you plan to nurse, it might be helpful to bring along a nursing bra or tank, as well as button up pajamas and a robe. Many moms prefer adult diapers (Always Discreet Boutique Underwear is a fan favorite) as an alternative or in addition to the maxi pads provided by the hospital.
When it comes to your feet, cozy socks with grip or some slippers are handy for a quick trip to the restroom or walking the halls during labor. Flip flops are a great option if you plan to take a shower during your stay. Some hospitals keep the temperatures low, so plan to bring something to keep you warm. A cardigan or zip-up hoodie would be handy to quickly cover up if hospital staff or family and friends come to visit. Shivering is not uncommon at some point before or after delivery, so it is good to be prepared. Finally, you may want to pack a going-home outfit if you want to wear something different than what you arrived in.
Electronics
- Noise machine, dim light or night light, Bluetooth speaker to play music, portable or long charger for your phone, extension cord
Not all these electronics are necessary, but every one of them serves a purpose. The baby (and even you!) might sleep better with a noise machine or Baby Shusher. Since nurses are always popping in and out, yes—even at all times of the night, there is benefit to having a light that dims or even a night light so the overhead (often fluorescent lights) don’t have to be turned on. Labor and delivery can be long, so having a Bluetooth speaker to listen to some of your favorite music might be nice to have. You can even create playlists ahead of time.
Important documents
- ID/Insurance Card
It’s helpful to think through what would be good to have on hand as you will be filling out paperwork to sign-in (pre-registration is very helpful and often required) and filling out paperwork on the baby before your hospital departure.
Breastfeeding essentials
- Breast pads, a Haakaa, and a nursing pillow or pillows of your own
If you plan to breastfeed, it might be helpful to bring along some breast (nursing) pads in case your milk comes in while you are in the hospital, as well as a Haakaa. For ease of positioning, consider bringing along a nursing pillow such as a Boppy or My Breast Friend. Some moms even prefer to bring their own pillows to use for sleeping or propping up.
Non-essential items, but good to consider
- Essential oils/diffuser, prenatal vitamins, ear plugs and black out eye mask, small notebook and pen, hair tie, lip balm, mints or even gum
Be as minimalist or extravagant with what you bring as you personally feel comfortable with. If you tend to pack on the heavier side, using a large suitcase with wheels or even a wagon can be helpful, especially when arriving and leaving.
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