Mom’s Hospital Bag Checklist:ForBrideAndBaby.com

Mom’s Hospital Bag Checklist

Before you pack your hospital bag

Check out this great article written by Cassandra Germsheid - Baby Tips Online

While some expectant mothers pack their hospital bags like they’re going on
a two week vacation, others never even think about it until it’s too late.

There are some very important things that should be in that bag before you
head to the hospital to give birth, so it’s a good idea to have it packed
and ready to go ahead of time - at least two weeks before your due date.
Here’s a list of some things you’ll want to have with you:

Birth plan - If you have any notes or a specific birth plan that you want
your doctor, nurses or midwife to be aware of, make sure that you have it
written down.

Toiletries - I looked horrible in all the pictures during labor and I’m
wishing I had spent a little time on hair and makeup. You’ll also want to
have your own shampoo, conditioner and soap since the hospital soap is
usually pretty gross.

Chapstick - During labor, the nurses and doctor may ask you not to eat ordrink. Breathing during contractions and being limited to ice chips can make your lips very dry and sore. A lip moisturizer will be your best friend during those long hours.

Snacks and drinks - If you are allowed to eat and drink, you’ll want to
bring your own snacks. You’ll also want to bring extra for your partner
since you may be in there for awhile.

Layette - You’ll need to pack a “going home” outfit for both you and baby. I chose sweat pants and an old t-shirt for me and a basic sleeper for baby. Don’t forget to pick something that would fit you when you were about 6 months pregnant since you won’t be pre-pregnancy size overnight. I chose to wear the hospital gown and robe, but if you bring your own be aware that they might get ruined. Childbirth is messy business. Your own slippers and socks are a must.

Camera - You’ll most likely want to capture those precious moments of bringing baby into the world on camera. Pack extra film, or if you have adigital camera, pack extra batteries.

Baby Universe Baby stuff - Your hospital should provide you with everything you need like diapers, creams, etc. but you may want to bring some of your own things.

Nursing bras and pads - I wore my nursing bras the entire time. Pack two if you have them. Nursing pads are also helpful for when your milk comes in. The hospital should provide you with maternity pads, but they’re pretty bulky and uncomfortable, so bring your own if you like. You’ll need lots!

Books, magazines, cards - You might want some things to help pass the time in between contractions or after you have baby. I know some people who brought a board game and played during labor!

Music - I found that listening to music really helped during labour. Also,
anything that you think would help you get through labor, like massage oils, a fan, pillows, pictures, etc. should be thought of ahead of time.

Change or calling card - Most hospitals don’t allow the use of cell phones
and will charge extra to use the phones in your room, so make sure you have
either a calling card or some change for the payphone. Friends and loved
ones will want to know when your little one arrives.

Ear plugs - I ended up in an extremely noisy maternity ward and I wished I
had some ear plugs with me. There will most likely be babies crying all
night long while you’re trying to rest.

Blanket - You’ll want a warm blanket to wrap baby in when you go home, especially if the weather is cold. If it’s winter, you’ll also want a jacket or winter suit for baby.

Infant car seat - You can’t pack the car seat in your hospital bag
obviously, but it’s important to have it safely installed in your car before you head out. Some hospitals won’t let you leave unless they see that it’s installed properly.

Packing your bag - It’s easier to pack two separate bags. One for labor, and one for post-labor. The post-labor bag can be left in the car and brought up by your partner when you need it to prevent you from lugging it all over the hospital.

Every hospital is different and has different policies, so it’s important to
find out what they are. Some hospitals will even have orientation services
for expectant parents. Take advantage of this if you can.

Share Cassie’s tips and experiences at Baby Tips Online which offers practical baby tips, useful articles, baby product reviews, recipes, links to free baby stuff, a place just for mom, and more.

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