Mum and baby hospital bag checklist (2024)

FAQs

What must you have in a mommy hospital bag? ›

Some hospitals and birth centers don't allow videotaping of the birth itself, but there's usually no rule against filming during labor or after the birth. Toiletries. Don't forget a toothbrush, toothpaste, and vision supplies (if you wear contacts or glasses). Comfortable shoes and a change of comfortable clothes.

Pack two different outfits in different sizes because you don't know how big or small your baby will be! Aim for one outfit in newborn size and one 0-3 months. Don't forget hats and/or socks, if weather-appropriate, to keep baby warm. Your pediatrician's contact information.

These include: Comfortable clothing to wear during labour and after delivery, such as a loose-fitting nightdress, a robe, or comfortable loungewear. Don't forget to pack clothes to wear home. Essential toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and a hairbrush or comb.

up to 5 sleepsuits and vests for your baby. a pack of nappies for newborns. cotton wool, which you can use with warm water to clean your baby. Avoid wipes for the first few weeks, as newborn skin is so sensitive.

5 or 6 pairs of knickers – you may want to bring some disposable ones. your washbag with a toothbrush, hairbrush, flannel, soap, lip balm, deodorant, hair ties and other toiletries. towels. things to help you pass the time and relax – for example, books, magazines, music or podcasts.

The hospital will supply you with a gown, slippers, disposable underwear, and basic toiletries. While it is nice to have your own clothes with you, labor and the first few days postpartum are most often a very messy time, so you may not want to wear your brand-new lingerie.

What should I pack for coming into hospital? For your baby: Nappies – approximately 6-8 a day.

Newborn Swaddles or Gowns

This is preferred because nurses, pediatricians, pediatric specialists and other care providers will be by your room frequently to perform vital sign checks and other newborn procedures. Non complicated outfits are key, and frankly, more comfortable for your baby (who has never worn clothes!).

Small babies need little

In the hospital, blankets and onesies are typically provided. If you'd like to bring baby his/her own clothes to wear during your stay or a special outfit, please do so, but it isn't required. Don't forget a seasonally-appropriate outfit for baby to wear home!

Since you'll spend most of your recovery time sitting down or lying in bed, you'll want comfy clothes like loose pants with an elastic or drawstring waist. If you're breastfeeding, you'll need tops with stretchy necklines or easy nursing access.

When should I start packing my hospital bag for birth? ›

But if you're a planner like me and want to be ready for your little one's arrival, I'd suggest having your hospital bag packed between 36 and 38 weeks. If you are considered a high-risk pregnancy, for example, if you're having multiples (congrats!), you probably want to have your bag packed around 35 weeks.

If you're both doing well, you'll usually be ready to go home somewhere between 6 and 24 hours after birth. You may need to stay a bit longer if: you've had an emergency caesarean section. you or your baby need extra care.

Do this around 4-6 weeks before the baby is due. This is close enough to the date so that the clothes aren't sitting for months on end collecting dust. But it isn't too close to your due date when you should be focusing on rest and preparing for birth.

There's no set timescale for when you should start looking at baby items. Many people don't feel comfortable looking until the second trimester – or after the 12th week of pregnancy – as that's when you're likely to start telling people and relaxing into the pregnancy.

At around 36 weeks, pack your bag so you're ready to go at a moment's notice. Even if you are planning a home birth, it's a good idea to have a bag packed in case you need to go to hospital for a premature birth, or if you have pregnancy or birth complications.

Breast pumps are available for you while you are at the hospital. Ask your baby's nurse where to find them. How often should I use the breast pump? Many mothers find that setting exact times for pumping and staying on that schedule makes pumping easier.