Besides setting up the baby’s nursery (which we didn’t do because we’re Jewish), one of the most important things on a pregnant lady’s to do list is packing their hospital bag. Its important to find out ahead of time what is provided by the hospital. The more you bring, the more you need to bring home – along with your new baby.
So much of what I packed came from recommendations when I asked for help on Instagram. Before I got pregnant I would always hear people complain about mom shaming. But from my experience, other moms have been nothing but helpful. I hope my list will be helpful for you!
For Mom
Pajamas – I recommend these all the time. They’re super affordable (only $22 for the set), comfortable and now they’re perfect for breastfeeding. And since we’re currently changing back and forth from nighttime to daytime pajamas, I just treated myself to another pair in the pink stripe.
Zip up hoodie or oversized cardigan – Hospital rooms can get cold and the zipper makes its easy for breastfeeding.
Long Phone Charger – You never know where the outlets will be in your hospital room.
Slippers / Socks – My feet/ankles/legs were so swollen from IV fluids that my bunny slippers were the only shoes that fit for a few days.
Boppy – If you plan on breastfeeding, a boppy is a lifesaver. It makes holding the baby so much easier.
Toiletries – shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste & toothbrush, face wash, deodorant, chapstick, etc.
Nursing bras – I suggest ordering a size up. The day my milk came in, my boobs were huge all of a sudden. And you might want to have some nipple pads with you as well.
Other things people suggested that I didn’t bring:
- Pillow from home (with a non-white pillowcase)
- snacks
Things you don’t need to pack:
- real clothes – I wore the hospital gown and I wore pajamas. Yes, I even left the hospital in pajamas but if you do want to wear real clothes when you leave, make sure they’re comfy.
- things for mom’s recovery – the hospital provided everything I needed and sent me home with even more. I thought about ordering this Frida Mom Postpartum Kit, but I’m glad I held off because I was given more than I needed from the hospital. I really only needed to purchase more maxi pads.
For Baby
Carseat – They don’t let you leave the hospital with your baby without the carseat. (P.S. they will probably check that the baby is securely in the carseat, but they won’t check that the carseat is properly installed in your car. If you want some extra help, plan ahead and check if your local fire station has a program to install a carseat).
Coming home outfit – Aaron came home in his golf pajamas. They were the first gift he received. They were to us sent from our friends with our gender reveal golf balls. (We had to wait to open the gift til after we found out the gender).
Newborn Nest – With a Newborn Nest set, you really don’t need anything else for your baby. It comes with cuter/softer versions of things provided by the hospital – sheet that fits the hospital bassinet, swaddle, gown, hat, burp cloth. And looks great in pictures! Aaron wore his gown for his bris and we use the swaddle and burp cloth all the time.
Letter board – I’ve seen so many baby announcements with pictures taken at the hospital with a letter board that I actually thought maybe the hospitals now provide them. Well, they don’t.
Anything else your baby needs while in the hospital will be provided by the hospital. (Or at least the hospital we delivered at did). Diapers, wipes, blankets, formula (if necessary), etc. The hospital also had a breast pump that I used while there and provided me with my own pumping parts.
For Dad
Pajamas, change of clothes, sweatshirt, toiletries, etc.
Jon stayed with me in the hospital and had a bag packed but still ended up coming home to shower and change. Luckily we only live 5 minutes away from the hospital.
Please comment with something I didn’t say that you’re glad you packed in your hospital bag.
