You’ve been preparing for a baby for the past nine months. Now you need to prepare for the actual hospital birth of your baby. It’s so easy to forget some essential items for your stay in the hospital! For my third baby, I forgot to pack a shirt! Of course, my trip to the hospital for baby number three was more dramatic than usual (see my post about my third baby’s birth story).
My fourth baby’s due date is quickly approaching. I want to be completely prepared for my stay in the hospital! After my three previous births, I am well-acquainted with what items I’ll use and what ones I can leave at home.
For Mom
- Shirts (2-3)
- Loose-fitting pants or shorts (2)
- Nursing bra
- Socks
- Robe
- Pajamas
- Going home outfit (a flowy dress or other loose-fitting clothing)
- Slippers
- Flip-flops
- Phone charger with long cord
- Battery pack in case outlets are not easy to access
- Headphones or earbuds
- Book or magazine to read
- Insurance Card and ID
- Toiletries
- Shampoo
- Bodywash
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Brush
- Hair tie
- Nipple cream
- Nursing pads
- Hairdryer
- Bath towel (hospital towels are tiny and scratchy)
- Makeup for photos
- Camera with extra batteries, tripod
- Optional: adult diapers for postpartum bleeding (hospital will provide mesh undies and pads, but the adult diapers are more discreet and can be more comfortable)
For Baby
- Outfit for pictures
- Swaddles (velcro swaddles are easy to use)
- Blanket
- Bows/hats
- Pacifier
- Going home outfit
- Car seat (have the base installed in your car)
- Optional: birth announcement
For Partner
- Shirts (2-3)
- Pants (2)
- Underwear
- Comfortable shoes
- Slippers
- Sleepwear
- Pillow
- Blanket
- Wallet
- Phone charger
- Toiletries
- Soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Water bottle
- Snacks
Hospitals typically supply all the diapers, wipes, and postpartum care products you will need for your stay in the hospital. You also get to take these items home with you when you leave! Make sure you have some space in your hospital bag for all these items when you get discharged.
Being well-prepared for your hospital stay makes the labor and delivery and postpartum process less stressful, and gives you a chance to focus your attention on healing from birth and getting to know your newest addition!
Links for my hospital bag essentials
Similar Large zippered tote bag | Robe | Nursing Bra | Nursing Pads | Similar Loose-Fitting Dress | Nursing Tank | Newborn PJs | Floral Baby Blanket | Baby Bow | Velcro Swaddles | Pacifier | Car Seat
