Hospital bag essentials for baby:
Here is a check list of items you may need to pack for your newborn if you have decided to give at hospital. This is a list based on the average stay at hospital. All women have different experiences when giving birth. You may find that you will be sent home on the same day, or you need to stay for longer. Pack enough for what you feel is best for you but take into consideration how far away from home you live and whether someone is able to pick up more supplies for you if needed. We recommend you pack everything in a small suitcase as this will be easier for you or partner to pull. You might find it better to pack everything together for you and baby or in separate bags.
- Car seat to be brought before you leave hospital
- Pramsuit/snowsuit if you are giving birth in colder months. Light jacket or cardigan in warmer months
- Baby blanket
- Muslins/burp cloths for breastfeeding or swaddling
- Bodysuits x3
- Sleepsuits with built in mitts and socks x3
- Thin cotton baby hat
- Nappies size 0
- Water wipes for ease (approved by midwives) or cotton buds
Hospital bag essentials for mother:
Here is a check list of items you may need to pack for yourself if you have decided to give at hospital. This is a list based on the average stay at hospital. All women have different experiences when giving birth. You may find that you will be sent home on the same day, or you need to stay for longer. Pack enough for what you feel is best for you but take into consideration how far away from home you live and whether someone is able to pick up more supplies for you if needed. Many women like to pack small comforts like a bit of makeup or skincare products. Remember, this is your birthing story so do what feels best for yourself. We recommend you pack everything in a small suitcase as this will be easier for you or partner to pull. You might find it better to pack everything together for you and baby or in separate bags.
- Your birth plan and notes.
- Something loose and comfortable to wear during labour an old baggy tshirt or nightie
- Change of comfortable clothes to go home in
- Nursing bras x2
- Breast pads
- Disposable pants or old underwear x5
- Maternity pads
- Towel
- Your washbag (toothbrush, toothpaste, flannel, skincare products, deodorant bar, shower gel, shampoo, lip balm, hair ties) go for mini reusable bottles.
- A fan or spray bottle
- Water bottle with straw to stay hydrated
- Front opening nightie to breastfeed or skin on skin
- Dressing gown and slippers and socks
- Flip flops for shower room
- Any medicine you are taking
- TENs machine if you find it useful
- Postpartum relief remedies
- Snacks and drinks for energy
- Things to pass time (magazine, kindle, ipad with downloaded shows or podcats)
- Your Quran or downloaded on your phone
- Things that bring you small comfort (makeup, hair brush, your own pillow)