What to Pack in your Hospital Bag
Advice from a Mom of 2
Advice from a Mom of 2
If you’re pregnant, you’re probably worried about labor, delivery, and what comes after. You may be wondering what you need to bring with you to the hospital or birthing center. If you’re a chronic overpacked like me, you may wonder how much is too much to bring for a 1-2 night stay. “What should I pack in my hospital bag?” is a question both first-time and seasoned moms ask leading up to their due date. Yes, that’s right, even moms who have done this before may struggle to make a packing list. This could be due to a large age gap between the first and second baby, knowing the hospital you are delivering at this time is different than with your first, or simply not remembering what you even used out of your bag the first time! (Those first 48 hours can be a BLUR.) That’s why I’ve compiled the ULTIMATE HOSPITAL BAG PACKING LIST FOR MOMS. In this list you will find the essentials including things you may not think of. You will not find unnecessary items that will just end up taking up space in your bag, and ultimately will get brought back home without being used.
Toiletries This is number one on the list because it’s the SO important in my experience! After giving birth to both my boys, I wanted to take a shower the first chance I got. Bring shampoo, conditioner, face wash, moisturizer, lotion, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc. Even if you don’t have the energy to shower, washing your wash and brushing your teeth will make you feel human again, trust. Also don’t forget chapstick! This one was very important for me because my lips felt so dry after breathing through contractions. Personally, I skipped packing makeup each time, because I knew I wouldn’t want to apply it. That’s personal preference though as I know some moms like having their makeup done during or after birth. They say if you look good, you feel good, so I can totally understand that as well!
Hair tie Don’t be like me with my first child and have to use a rubber band because that’s all the hospital had. If you use a claw clip, I would also bring a hair tie or scrunchie, in case you decide to labor on your back, and for after delivery. No one wants to lean their head back on a claw clip.
Comfort Items You will likely already have a rough night of sleep with nurses coming in to check on you and the baby frequently, so don’t make it worse by sleeping on the hospital pillows. I prefer my own pillow, and I brought my own cozy blanket as well. I also recommend bringing a pair of maternity pajamas to change into after the delivery, plus a comfortable outfit to wear home. Some moms also bring their own gown instead of using the hospital one. This is also personal preference, but I didn’t find it necessary.
Slippers Bring slippers or slide on sandals to be able to move around the hospital room comfortably! This one was an absolute must for me. I would also throw in a few extra pairs of cozy socks. With my second baby, my water broke ALL over my socks, so I was grateful to have extras.
Stroller Fan This is a 2-for-1 because you will likely use it on the stroller in the summer months as well. It’s common for moms to feel HOT postpartum and I was so grateful I brought a little fan that attached to the hospital bed rail, so I could point it directly at my face without making my baby cold! I actually used this for months postpartum next to my bed at home too.
Extra Long Phone Charger One for you, and one for your partner! Who knows if there will be an available outlet close to your bed, so bringing an extra long charger is a must!
Essentials for Baby No need to go overboard here. Call to check ahead of time because every hospital or birth center is different, but they will likely have most of what you need. 2 outfits (one for in the hospital, one for going home, socks, pacifier, a couple diapers and wipes, and aquaphor is really all I needed. Also the carseat pre-installed in your vehicle because you will not be allowed to leave without that.
Postpartum Care Items Again, check with the hospital or birth center, because they will likely provide some of this. Things like adult diapers, a peri bottle, nipple cream, nursing bras, and snacks for when the cafeteria is closed, are all essential!
