What I Packed in My Hospital Bag | Mom & Baby Checklist
Hospital Bag Checklist for Labor: What I Packed at 37 Weeks
Get ready for labor with my hospital bag checklist! I packed everything by 37 weeks—no last-minute scramble here. Here’s what’s in my hospital bag (and my husband’s too!) I have edited this blog since giving birth to go over what I needed & didn’t need during labor!
My hospital bags are officially packed, and I’m ready to go! I’ll admit—I’m usually a last-minute packer (the kind of person who throws clothes in a suitcase an hour before a flight). But when it comes to labor and delivery, I knew I didn’t want to be rushing around the house trying to gather everything while having contractions. I made it a goal to have everything packed and by the door by 37 weeks—and I actually did it! Even my husband has his hospital bag packed and ready to go. He’s the ultra-prepared type who packs 48 hours in advance, so no surprise there.
What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Labor & Delivery
I’ve learned so much from watching “What’s in My Hospital Bag” videos on YouTube and reading the helpful comments some of you have left here on the blog. It’s been incredibly useful as I’ve figured out what to bring to the hospital for labor and delivery.
Every birth experience is so different—some people barely make it to the hospital in time and don’t bring a single bag, and they’re totally fine! But I think the anxiety comes from not knowing what you’ll want or need once you’re there. There’s something comforting about having your own things, especially during such a life-changing moment.
We also took a labor and delivery class at our hospital, and our instructor shared a hospital bag checklist for mom, dad, and baby. She emphasized that the hospital provides a lot of essentials (especially for baby), but it’s still a good idea to bring what will make you feel most comfortable.
Why I’m Sharing My Hospital Bag Checklist
Today, I’m sharing everything I packed in my hospital bags—one for me, one for my husband, and one for baby. After giving birth, I plan to update this blog post with what I actually used and what I didn’t. Everyone’s experience is different, so what works for me might not be what you need—and vice versa. If there’s something you brought that you absolutely loved having with you, drop it in the comments! I’d love to keep this post helpful for other moms-to-be.
Hospital Bags I’m Bringing
Organizing my hospital bags was surprisingly fun—especially once I found some cute and practical options. Here’s a breakdown of what I’m bringing (and why I chose each one)!
“Mama Bag” from Amazon
When I saw the Mama Bag on Amazon, I immediately added it to my cart! It was under $20 and looked like the perfect size for keeping snacks, electronics, and all the little miscellaneous things I’ll want nearby during labor. If you’re putting together a gift for an expecting mama, this would be such a sweet and thoughtful addition.
DIY Baby Bag
For some reason (probably nesting instincts on overdrive), I wanted the baby to have their own official hospital bag. I grabbed a purple tote and some iron-on letters from Hobby Lobby and personalized it myself.
It holds all of their essentials and has extra room for anything the hospital sends home with us. Totally unnecessary—but totally adorable.
Belly & Bag Baby Bodly Hospital Bag
This bag was a huge time-saver. I’ll go into more detail about the Baby Bodly hospital bag later in the post, but just know: if you’re feeling overwhelmed with what to pack, this pre-packed bag cuts the work in half. It made things so much easier for me.
“Baby Things” & “Mommy Things” Bags
These popped up in my Amazon recommendations after I bought the Mama Bag… and yes, I caved. They were under $12 and way too cute to pass up.
I love the quality, and I know I’ll use them beyond the hospital stay. I packed the baby’s hat, mittens, and socks in their bag. Mine holds my phone charger, earphones, and USB cord—basically my tech essentials.
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
There’s no exact rule for when to pack your hospital bag—it’s totally up to you and your comfort level. I’ve been following my pregnancy apps week-by-week, and my goal was to have everything packed and ready to go by 37 weeks.
I was born just before 36 weeks, so I know firsthand that babies don’t always follow the calendar. Once you hit that final stretch, even simple tasks (like packing) can start to feel harder. I wanted to be prepared if baby decides to make an early appearance—and now everything is by the door, ready to grab and go.
If you’re wondering when to start packing your hospital bag, I recommend starting toward the end of your third trimester, especially between weeks 32 and 36. You can even add a few bag essentials to your baby shower registry to help you get started early without needing to make a bunch of last-minute purchases.
Hospital Bag Clothing for Mom: What I Packed (and Actually Used)
When it came to packing my hospital bag for labor and delivery, I focused on comfy, nursing-friendly clothes that wouldn’t feel too restrictive—especially for those first postpartum hours. Since I was delivering in May, I packed a mix of warm- and cool-weather options.
Here’s what I packed for myself—and a note on whether I actually used the item or not. Hopefully, this helps you build your own hospital bag checklist for mom with confidence!
Super High-Waisted Silky Jersey Shorts
These were my go-to during the third trimester—so soft and comfortable. I grabbed a few colors at the Express Outlet and thought they’d be great for lounging postpartum.
✅ Verdict: Did not use at the hospital
Planning to size down and wear them postpartum at home!
The BEST Maternity Leggings
These over-the-belly maternity leggings were my ride-or-die since the second trimester. They held everything together and felt so soft—like a Lululemon dupe but way more affordable.
✅ Verdict: Wore these on the way home
Great for postpartum support without being too tight.
Cozy Ribbed Sweater
Packed this just in case the room was chilly or I wanted a cozy layer.
✅ Verdict: Didn’t use, but glad I had it
Silky Jersey Tee Shirt
Paired with the jersey shorts, this was such a soft and breathable outfit.
✅ Verdict: Used
So comfy—I’ll be wearing this set long after recovery.
Nursing-friendly Nightgown
I brought a soft, button-front nightgown for comfort and nursing ease. Everyone said it’s a must just in case of a C-section recovery.
✅ Verdict: Didn’t use in the hospital, but wore immediately at home
Nursing Bra
I packed one comfy bra (no clasps!) from Amazon with great reviews.
✅ Verdict: Did not use—went braless for comfort, but immediately used after I went home. It’s 3 years later and I STILL use these bras (not for nursing but for comfort!)
Soft Robe
My friend gifted me the coziest robe, and I totally get why people live in these postpartum. Easy for nursing, skin-to-skin, and constant check-ins from the nurses.
✅ Verdict: Used and loved
Oversized Sweatshirt
A simple, cozy option for the ride home.
✅ Verdict: Used
Loose Fitting Pajama Set
Just in case of a longer hospital stay, I brought a nursing-friendly PJ set.
✅ Verdict: Used
And wore them constantly once I got home, too.
Postpartum Belly Band
I bought one in peach after reading how weird it can feel with everything shifting post-birth.
✅ Verdict: Did not use
I was all about comfort and didn’t want the restriction.
Postpartum Frida Mom Disposable Brief Underwear
These came highly recommended for postpartum recovery.
✅ Verdict: Didn’t use in the hospital—used hospital-provided briefs
But I did switch to these around week four at home, and later preferred the Always Discreet disposable underwear (which I highly recommend bringing with you).
Vionic Sneakers
My absolute favorite go-to travel shoe—canvas, slip-on, and washable.
✅ Verdict: Wore to and from the hospital
Headband
Not a headband girl usually, but it kept my hair out of my face during labor.
✅ Verdict: Used
Socks with Grips
Warm, fuzzy, and non-slip—so necessary for cold hospital floors.
✅ Verdict: LOVED having these!
Especially after the epidural—my feet were freezing.
Shower Shoes
Amazon find for both of us, just in case we wanted to shower.
✅ Verdict: Didn’t use (I didn’t shower at the hospital—read why here)
Memory Foam Slippers
Perfect for walking the halls or just feeling cozy post-birth.
✅ Verdict: Used
Sleeping Eye Mask
Hospital lights don’t sleep, but you need to.
✅ Verdict: Used and appreciated
I packed one for my husband, too!
Miscellaneous & Tech Items for Hospital Bag
Portable Fan
I’ve heard that the hospital rooms can be either super cold or hot! But during birth, you’ll want the fan on you! I bought a fan that can attach to the arms of the hospital bed. The best part about this fan is that it is wireless, and I can use it on the stroller in the summer. Used
Extra Long Cell Phone Chargers
You will want a phone charger to reach your hospital bed. After an epidural, there’s no more getting up. Used
Laptop + USB cord to stream movies.
The hospital may have poor internet service, so pre-download the shows and movies you want to watch on your devices in advance. We did not use it or bring it, but we brought the Firestick to hook up to the TV.
Cell Phones / White Noise
Instead of bringing a portable sound machine to the hospital, download a calming sleep app to listen with your headphones or a sleep machine noise app that you can play on your phone. We use the white noise app every time we travel. Used
Wireless Earphones
I use my wireless headphones (the AirPods knockoffs) religiously. Make sure they’re charged up, and bring them with you! You may want to watch videos while your spouse is sound asleep, or it may help you fall asleep by listening to calming tunes or a podcast. I listen to a podcast to fall asleep every night. Used
Heating Pad –
I’ve been married to my heating pad this entire pregnancy. I put it on my back, and it helps take away my heartburn pain instantly! I hear it’s great to have with you during contractions. I did not bring it, but I wish I had!
Breast Pump for Lactation Consultant Session
I don’t plan to use my breast pump for a few weeks after giving birth, but the hospital provides a lactation consultant who can help me with pumping and measuring for the right sizes! I’m seriously overwhelmed with pumping, so I’m glad they have someone there to help me. I purchased a pump through my insurance, so I hope it arrives in time! I did not bring it because it did not arrive in time.
Birth Plan
I don’t plan to have a plan, BUT there are a few things I’d like to happen if I can, and I’ll write those all down on a notecard to keep in my bag just in case. I think it has EPIDURAL in caps and bold, which is what it is about. 😆
Gifts for Nurses
I know some people make gift baskets for the labor and delivery nurses, but I think I’ll order Crumbl cookies and pizza for them to share that evening! One of my good NP friends who works in the Nicu recommended this. I ordered Crumbl cookies instead of any gift baskets, and they loved them! 
Snacks For Hospital Bag
Sugar-Free Hard Candy
Our birthing instructor said that sucking on sugar-free hard candy is super helpful. She told me the sugar-free helps you from having a dry mouth, so I went ahead and purchased some Jolly Ranchers! We did not use them, but we did eat the gummy bears postpartum 😉
Muscle Milk –
You can choose any protein drink you want, but Muscle Milk is one of my favorites. I love how much protein it has, and it’s the perfect post-birth or even pre-birth protein source. The birthing instructor also recommended this. She said you’d be surprised that sometimes food is the last thing you want, but a quick protein source like Muscle Milk can help. Used
Trail Mix
Crackers
Lactation Cookies and Bars – Boobie Bars
Hydromom Electrolyte Drink Mix by Boobie
Prenatal Gummies
Trader Joe’s Snacks
Dried Mango
Unsalted Cashews
Figs
Yogurt –
We have a refrigerator in our room, so hopefully, I’ll have some fresh apples, yogurt, and other healthier options to bring with me before I leave!
You never know what your body may crave, so you can bring some change to the vending machines, and your partner can even head down to the hospital cafeteria.
*packing snacks was a great idea. Kyle ended up eating so many of them during labor, and it was nice to have healthier options postpartum. I didn’t want anything heavy after labor and take the risk of getting sick.
Comfort Essentials for Hospital Bag
Pillow
I’m bringing an older pillow from home that I can toss out when I’m done. Used! This was such a game-changer. The hospital pillows are like paper. I highly recommend bringing one or two pillows!
Cozy Blanket
I bought a heavy and cozy blanket at Homegoods to take with me. I read that the hospital blankets and pillows they provide are thin as paper. Used. Like the pillow, it was so lovely to have a warm cozy blanket. The hospital blankets are thin as sheets.
Nursing Pillow
I’m bringing my Boppy nursing pillow for breastfeeding; the lactation consultant recommended it. Did not use.
Towel
They also said that the hospital’s towels are like sheets. I am bringing some older towels I can toss out when I’m done. I did not use it, but if you plan to shower at the hospital, you’ll want to bring one.
Water Bottle
I have not parted ways with my water bottle since getting pregnant. I drink about 140 fl oz of water each day. I’m even waking up to chug my water bottle in the middle of the night. I used to go days without craving water, but it’s all I have wanted since getting pregnant. I’ve heard it gets even worse when you’re nursing. Used
Exercise Ball
I thought hospitals provided these, but it was on our what-to-bring list from the hospital, so I purchased one and will bring it in the box and have Kyle inflate it once we get there. I’ll leave my other one at home! It’ll be nice to have one for the downstairs and one for the upstairs when I get home. I remember my niece loved being bounced to sleep with the exercise ball. I did not bring and did not use it.
Lavender Essential Oil Roll-On
You don’t want to bring a diffuser because the scents can carry into other rooms, and you’ll want to be sensitive to other patients. I plan to bring my lavender essential oil roll-on to my pillows and wrists for breathing. Used
What I packed for the baby
Going Home Outfit
I wasn’t too picky about what they’d be going home in, especially since I wouldn’t know the weather or the gender. I just bought a cozy white outfit and some zipper onesies for their comfort. It was good to have options because he didn’t fit much of the clothing!
Multiple Swaddles
My sister-in-law told me that the nurses often check the baby, so you won’t want to keep dressing and undressing them. Keeping them in a swaddle helps make it easier for them and you. I brought about five swaddles for the baby. We also plan to take home the swaddles and let our dogs sniff them before introducing them to the baby. We will also put a dog toy with the baby as a gift to them from the baby. I highly recommend bringing zipper swaddles! I mentioned this in my labor blog, but you’ll sleep better at night if they have a safe swaddle instead of being wrapped up. My sweet boy kept breaking out of the hospital swaddle.
Zipper Onesies
I bought several comfortable onesies for them to make changing in and out super easy! I also like that they’re soft and lightweight for the May weather. The Old Navy NEWBORN onesies fit the best.
Mittens –
I know babies have super long nails, so I purchased some mittens to protect their faces from getting scratched. Used
Custom Swaddles With Our Boy/Girl Names!
I had an Etsy shop make some custom muslin swaddles with our boy’s name and girl’s name! This will be a fun way to announce the gender and name to our friends and family.
Baby Bodly so kindly gifted me a packed hospital bag with all the carefully-sourced birthing essentials. This eliminated so much time purchasing products and putting shampoos and soaps into travel containers, and it helped me decide what to bring. It contained items I would have never thought of. This would be an incredible gift for someone expecting in your life. The bag is filled with essentials, and I plan to use it as a diaper bag after birth! It’s easy to clean, comes with a changing pad, and it’s so conventional. The bag has so much room for clothing and other essentials.
What the Baby Bodly Hospital Bag Has in it:
- Weekender Bag + Changing Pad
- Waterproof Toiletry Bag
- Grippy Socks
- Travel-size Shampoo + Conditioner + Body Moisturizer + Body Wash + Bath Bar
- Aluminum-free Deodorant
- Cotton Balls + Cotton Swabs + Mini Nail File + Shower Cap + Fillable Spray Bottle
- Organic Maxi Pads
- Bamboo Toothbrush + All-natural Toothpaste
- Hairbrush + Hair Ties
- Beeswax Lip Balm
- Facial Towelettes
- Honey Sticks
- Massage Ball
- Thank You Cards + Pen
- Disposable Bamboo Nursing Pads
- Organic Nipple Balm
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Universal Portable Phone Charger
- Flip-flop Shower Sandals
Extra Products I packed for my Hospital Bag
Burt’s Bees Lotion
This is one of the products I mentioned in my second-trimester blog. I cannot live without my nighttime Burt’s Bees facial moisturizer. Used
Hatch Mama Nipple + Lip Butter
I use this day and night! I plan to put this in my bag as well. Used
Burt’s Bees Facial Wipes
The Baby Bodly bag provided the facial cleaning Burt’s Bees wipes, so I also threw in the refreshing Burt’s Bees wipes! I love the coolness of the cucumber. Used
Hair Ties
One thing you never want to leave the house without! You can also donate items you don’t use to the hospital for other mamas. So if I bring an entire pack of hair ties and do not use them, I can donate them! I think that’s a great idea. That’s why I don’t feel bad about overpacking. Used
Postpartum Healing Spray
The hospital will provide healing spray, but just in case, bring some! Used
Mascara
I haven’t worn makeup during my pregnancy. I can count the number of times I’ve worn makeup, and it’s on one hand! I put it on for my baby shower and some maternity pictures, and that’s about it. I don’t plan to bring my makeup to the hospital besides my mascara and the foundation I put on my dark circles. Call me crazy, but I don’t want a glam shot after giving birth or feel the pressure of putting on makeup. But if makeup is your thing, bring it! There is no judgment at all. Used
Tarte Clay Foundation
I always use the clay foundation from Tarte. It goes on like butter, and I only apply it underneath my eyes to hide my dark circles. Used
The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist
The Baby Bodly bag provides the ultimate hospital bag checklist, which includes your driver’s license, insurance cards, paperwork, birthplace, and more!
Preparing for Postpartum At-Home
Not only should you be prepared for your hospital stay, but being prepared at home is also a big one! You don’t need any added stress when bringing home the baby. I’ve been ensuring our house stays spotless, our home is organized, all baby items are clean and put together, and I’ve created a little station upstairs to keep my postpartum necessities together. My mom will be staying at our house while we are at the hospital to take care of our dogs, and she will do some grocery shopping and meal prep while we are gone.
Disposable Underwear Highly recommend! I went through two packs.
Padsicles
Placed in the freezer!
Nursing Pads
Peri Bottle
I highly recommend bringing this to the hospital. It was much better than what the hospital provided.
Frida Mom Wipes
Nursing Nightgowns
Washed and placed at the front of my closet.
Nipple Frozen Gel Packs
I placed it in the freezer! I used these a ton the first few weeks, but the pain eventually disappears!
LACTATION COOKIES! THEY ARE THE BEST! Prepare in advance to bring to the hospital, but also for POST PARTUM freezer supply!
I hope this hospital bag post helped you. I will update this post in a month or so. If there is anything I’m forgetting, please let me know in the comments!
Questions for you!
- What was the number one thing you used in your hospital bag?
- Are you expecting? Have you packed your hospital bag?
- Is there anything I’m missing?
You should take a night light. So much softer than hospital lights for night feedings!! It was the best thing I brought along with my maternity pillow!
Good luck and congrats!!
Thanks for the suggestion, Marine! I’ll look for a portable one!
Hi Taralynn!
I’ve been following you way back when your blog was on Tumblr and I’m finally leaving a comment.. even though while I read your blog posts I’m constantly commenting out loud and my husband looks at me like I’m a lunatic 😂 Anyways one of the number one things that I’d recommend packing and I rarely see people suggesting is to bring a folder or binder!! There is SO much paperwork and important documents that they send home for baby and I just had to stuff it into my bag. Disorganization causes me anxiety so I wish that I came prepared to keep everything orderly! My other recommendation as odd as it sounds is eucalyptus oil.. I chose to get an epidural but I also wanted to make sure that I could move around as much as possible prior to that and I swear it helped ease the pain of contractions. Good luck with your birth and enjoy this special time that God is giving to you and Kyle. It truly is one of the best experiences that life has to offer.
I’m looking forward to your update already! I definitely overpacked for my first birth, and that was a c-section with a longer stay. You definitely packed a lot, but I’m convinced that’s a first time mom requirement 😉 I do find it strange that your hospital doesn’t provide exercise balls or nursing pillows, though! I had both at every hospital when I gave birth.
– special gown vs hospital gown… I had no choice for my c-section. And I just wore an oversized old t-shirt for my med-free birth. I wore the hospital gown for my epidural birth, and maybe it’s because I held out for the epidural until the last second – but I did not care one bit what I looked like or what I wore, and I’m immmmmmensely glad I didn’t have to wash a soiled-from-birth gown. I say there’s wiser ways to spend your money 🤷🏻♀️
– belly band – life saver after birth! Made me feel so much better. But I think if I could only bring one thing, it would be the grippy, cozy socks.
And what I learned most for my third birth was to pack the stuff I’d need for the hospital stay into a small suitcase, and the stuff I’d need for the birth and immediately after into a bag. Makes things a LOT easier.
– lol at the headband, I don’t remember that clearly, but I’m pretty sure I ripped anything and everything off my body and threw it across the room at some point 😂😂😂
– very very smart to value comfort over photographic value for both baby and yourself. I brought a way too elaborate going home outfit for my first, then I got smarter and just brought cozy, comfy zip-up onesies. BUT I will say that I very much cherished having maternity jeggings to wear the day after giving birth/to go home in. Made me feel good, and they were still very comfortable. PS I still sometimes buy and wear maternity jeggings because they are just the most comfortable pants in existence 😅
– not expecting, never expecting again, been there, done that 😉 were I forced to ever give birth again, though… big, bold, capital-letter epidural all the way, haha! I do cherish the experience of a completely med-free birth, but it’s not something I need to do again 😆
Sending all the good vibes for a wonderful birth experience for the three of you!
Hi, Nora!
Yes, probably a lot, but I’ve always been an over packer. I’d rather not use things than wish I had them. Actually, the hospitals list was a lot longer than what I even packed which surprised me. I thought it was crazy our hospital didn’t provide the exercise ball as well, but definitely going to bring mine!
You’re brave for doing the med-free birth! That’s definitely NOT something I want to do lol and I understand it’s sometimes unpreventable so I’m just going in and walking out with whatever birth story comes my way.
I would definitely ask for APNO (all purpose nipple ointment) before you leave the hospital. It’s a prescription and was an absolute life saver during those first very painful weeks of nursing. Bringing a baby book so that they can put babys hands and feet prints right in is a must, as well. Best of luck!
Just had my baby 3 weeks ago! I think you’re well packed! I ended up getting a lot of extras to bring home from the hospital, I packed a couple of the large lululemon shopping bags at the bottom of my hospital bag for this purpose and I was glad that I did! I think the best thing I did at home was get two sets of peri care items, one for the master bath and one for the downstairs bath. The Frida Mom padsicles were my BFF! The pump lasinoh lidocaine I found hard to use so I got the Dermoplast spray they use in the hospital. Hope everything goes well for you!!
Thank you!!! so many great suggestions!!
Nice list! I bought a simple gown to labor in and it was just so comfortable. I loved it! Also, 100% yes on the essential oils. I have a sensitive nose and it was really nice to have something that smelled SO good with me! Everyone that entered my room appreciated it.
So good to know!
Good luck! The best advice I received, when I had my baby almost a year ago, was from a nurse who told me to leave all of the birth stories I have heard at the door and just focus on my own birth story. Advocate for yourself if you need to. You know yourself best.
I don’t know if your hospital provides a baby hat, but ours did, and it was something I didn’t realize I would use as much as I did.
The Frida underwear are amazing! Also, bring your absolute favourite shower gel/soap. There is nothing like that first post-birth shower.
Yes! That is so true. I always take what people tell me about their birth with a grain of salt since EVERYONE is different!
I think they do provide hats/bows! I just brought one cozy one for the baby, but maybe I should pack a few more!
You may want to pack toilet paper. The hospital provided rolls where ROUGH and its not a great time to wipe with sandpaper.
Good to know!!!
That is a great list!! I have had two c-sections and having just really comfy baggy clothes was top of my list and what I used the most. That and the Frida underwear which you’re already taking. I’d also recommend taking the Frida peri bottle to the hospital with you if you have room. I noticed it was on your at home list but wasn’t sure if you packed it as well. It is a million times easier to use than what they give you!!
Thanks, Lindsey!
I didn’t plan to bring it because the hospital said they provide one, but I’d rather have the easier one! I’ll make sure to throw that in my bag!
I had to be induced and ultimately had CS. I was in the hospital for 4 nights. I could see how a lot of things you packed would be helpful for a lot of just in case moments. I honestly didn’t use a 1/4 of what I packed and I will pare it way down for our next baby. I used the gown until I could shower and use my own robe and pjs. They supplied socks, a cup, postpartum supplies and such. I definitely recommend your own belly band. I didn’t care for mine from the hospital. A dress for going home was a good option for me. Skin tight clothing didn’t sound appealing and they didn’t recommend it for me. Depending on your comfort level, I didn’t even bother with a nursing bra because you have to nurse so often and on each side. Modesty went out the window for me since so many people had to “see” me. Your own pillow and blanket are a must. I was always hot until I gave birth and then I was freezing. The blankets are rough and thin, just like the pillows.
I didn’t dress the baby until we left and we used the hospital swaddle blanket the entire time. Outfits and blankets are great for photos though.
I’m sure you’ll be amazed at how much you did and didn’t use.
Good luck! You’ve got this mama.
Thank you, Hayleah!
I would skip bringing the water bottle. The hospital will provide you with a big one and will refill it constantly!
I was going to do that, but heard they use styrofoam cups! I’ll bring it just in case!
Oh what a bummer! I totally feel ya! Ours gave us one to take home and I used it for weeks! We are praying for you in the coming weeks. Can’t wait to see your little one!
The water bottle with straw you have is actually perfect for the hospital, you can have it filled with ice water & it will stay cold plus I honestly was too tired to even be bothered to tip a cup to my mouth so straw cup is perfect! You’ll be so thirsty!
I just had my baby girl on 4/8. She ended up coming 3 weeks early and most of my hospital bag was packed except a few last minute toiletries and phone chargers. The one thing I kicked myself over not bringing to the hospital was my boppy nursing pillow! I thought I wouldn’t want to lug it there so I left it. The pillows at the hospital are not supportive though and we’re such a pain to pile up every time I fed baby. I also think it’s great you got the Frida mom postpartum kit. Hands down that’s been the main kit that’s been helping me feel more comfortable postpartum. The cooling witch hazel wipes, healing foam and Ice pack pads are so relieving in these days postpartum. The briefs are also amazing!
I also really loved bringing my own hospital gown. I got mine from kindred bravely and it was super comfy and very easy to get on and off for feedings. I wore the gown they provided for birth and then changed into my own once we got moved to the postpartum room. I highly recommend it!!
Wishing you the birth experience you dream of and that everything goes well! ☺️
Congrats on baby girl, Alexandra!
Thank you for all the recs! I love the idea of bringing a gown to change into after birth. I’ve been looking at the KB gowns!
xo
I’m not sure what type of swaddles you packed, but it might be a good idea to include a Velcro one as an option! I’m a labor and delivery nurse and that’s something I always recommend to parents because swaddling with a blanket can be tricky!
Congratulations!! Your list seems pretty all encompassing so I think you’ll find you have everything you need! I would only say, consider bringing a pair of shoes that aren’t constricting on your feet. My feet swelled SO much after giving birth, they literally broke my old navy flip flops because they were so big. Not good! I also really loved the Honey Pot postpartum pads, they had a really nice cooling effect for an extended period of time. They rivaled the padscicles from the hospital but without all the ice melting.
You’re going to be a great momma! So so excited for you!
Bring an extra empty bag so you can snatch all the hospital goodies! And always ask for extras! Maxi pads, disposable underwear, you name it, you grab it and take it home
With you!
Great list!
I second the robe/gown for postpartum. Breastfeeding is awkward and constant in the first few days, so struggling with straps and small holes is annoying. Easier to just be loose and open. Secondly, this isn’t needed for the hospital, but lots of nursing tank tops have been useful for me once you get the hang of it. I still wear them every day at 6 months postpartum. So excited for you!
Hi Taralynn,
Chapstick was my best friend in the hospital. I also brought my kindle for middle of the night feedings. I didn’t have one when my daughter was born, but when my son was born last June I was grateful to have it. I would latch him (he was an absolute champ) and then I would read while he ate and my husband slept.
This miiiiight be TMI, but that first postpartum bathroom experience can be rough. I learned my lesson after my first birth and I asked to be given a daily dose of miralax to kind of help move things along and painlessly as possible.
The nurses are probably going to ask you about a million times what the baby’s diapers and feedings were like. I downloaded an app to track diaper outputs and breastfeeding times/durations so I could just pass my phone off to them every time they asked.
Home stretch mama! Good luck xoxo
So excited for you! I’ve been following your journey since your OG days.
Currently I’m in my second trimester, so I’ve been loving all of your pregnancy posts.
I am a birth doula, and love your list! The only thing I’d add that most all of my clients loved was a hand stress ball, or something similar. They really utilized it during those contractions where they wanted to break someone’s hand lol.
PS. Do you have any postpartum/newborn book recommendations?
This was really interesting to read! The only thing that popped out for me was nipple cream. Obviously absolutely do what works best but I had a lactation consultant tell me that the best thing for nipples (healing/cracked/preventative measures) was to squeeze a little of your own milk out at the end and rub (softly) all over your entire nipple and let air dry. It was the only thing that ever worked and I tried everything including tea bags for soreness. Happy Birthing! Can’t wait to see what you and Kyle have! I am actually expecting as well so it’s really exciting!
Sounds like you’re pretty well-covered! My top favorite things that I brought was my robe & slippers — it was a bit of home with me at the hospital, plus the rooms can get a bit cold (and the hospital socks they provide are always ill-fitting). I know you said you weren’t planning on using your pump for a few weeks after, but I would toss in a pump bra just in case. For some moms, their milk does not come in for up to 5 days — me included. And using the pump while at the hospital will help signal your body that hey, you need to start making milk now and STAT. Of course you can also have the baby latch on but the baby will be sleeping a lot of the time too so that’s when you can use the pump. Like you already mentioned, the hospital already has a hospital grade pump for you to borrow and they’ll provide the pump kit as well — bottles, flanges, tubing, all that good stuff. But I cannot tell you how invaluable the pump bra is to keep things hands-free!
Your bag is super well packed! I am so excited for you guys as you get ready to welcome baby 🙂 The only suggestion I would have is to bring big, reusable bags!!!! Like the ones you can get from TJMaxx or Marshalls! They are great as a make shift hamper, to take things home or to take baby gifts you may get! Trust me on this one! You bring everything to the hospital well packed and neatly organized but when going home, things just get tossed together haha Also, bring some soft wipes or your own toilet paper for YOU! Hospital toilet paper is rough down there! It seems silly but you won’t regret it!
Take stool softener with you!! The hospital usually gives it to you but not always. You will need it. TMI but that first poop after giving birth is nerve-wracking esp if you tear at all. The stool softener helps so so much. And keep taking it when you get home till you’re healed.
Thanks for sharing this! I’m so nervous about going into labor early. I know it’s rare to to do that on your first, but I’m still anxious. I’m still about a month out, but I’ve been having some contractions. We had to have a carpet cleaner out to clean up some stains and i started having some contractions. I was so scared. But that’s why I started looking into hospital bag prep and I really enjoyed how you packed yours.
Your post about hospital bag preparation came at just the right time for me. I’ve been feeling quite anxious about the possibility of early labor, especially since it’s my first pregnancy. Hearing your experience and seeing how you’ve prepared has given me a bit more confidence. I’m still a few weeks away from my due date, but I’ve also started to experience some contractions, which has been quite unsettling. It’s comforting to know I’m not alone in this and to have a guide on what to pack. Your detailed list and explanations are so helpful! I’m now feeling a bit more organized and ready, thanks to your insights.
Preparing your hospital bag ahead of time ensures you’re ready for the big day without any last-minute stress.