Tips for Packing a Hospital Bag for Baby
by Linda Scruggs
Apr 13, 2017
I love sharing tips with expecting moms as the excitement builds towards the arrival of baby. Packing a hospital bag for baby early on may help you feel empowered and prepared, especially if this is your first baby.
One thing is certain: you don't want to wait until the last minute to get your hospital bag packed, so having all the necessary items on hand as early as possibly will allow you to check one more thing off your list.
Here are my tips for packing the perfect hospital bag in preparation of your baby's birth:
Pillow and Pillowcase
Hospital pillows may seem insignificant, but an ill-fitting rough pillowcase and plastic-lined pillows do not feel soothing after giving birth to a human being. You may enjoy this body pillow, or a nursing pillow. We have our boppy pillow that we still use to this day. A nursing pillow can come in handy with holding baby and provide added comfort.
A cozy blanket
After a difficult delivery, I was uncomfortable and sweating due to fluid shifts and hormones. It made me feel more secure to have a new blanket, and it was reassuring to lay our beautiful baby on something so cozy.
Article Continues Below Advertisement
Notebook and pens to write down questions and take notes
The mix of hormones and range of emotions can make it difficult to keep anything straight. It's inevitable that a few questions will come to mind once the doctor or nurse leaves the room. Write down any questions as you think of them so you can refer to your list.
Little plush toyMy daughter received her first stuffed animal at the hospital and now that she is five years old, she loves hearing how her first fluffy friend was with her from the beginning.
A picture of any older siblings/loved ones
Article Continues Below Advertisement
We taped a picture of big brother to the bassinet when my daughter was born. It made him feel so special and helped us identify our bassinet when it was in the nursery.
Phone chargers, ear plugs, small bills, change for vending machines, & snacks
It's not a bad idea to pack some snacks so that you (or your visitors) are not hostage to the vending machine offerings. Consider packing gum, mints, and sucking candy to help if you have a sensitive nose or if the hospital room is dry.
Flip-flops or slip-on sandals
These are easy to take on and off. I can't tell you how happy I was to have my flip flops when I walked into the hospital shower for the first time.
Liquid soap, hand lotion, and a washcloth
It can feel refreshing after a long night to have some lovely scented items to freshen up. After my C-section, I appreciated being able to wash my face and use the personal items I brought from home.
Nightgown/robe
Article Continues Below Advertisement
A lightweight robe wins over the hospital gowns.
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Especially with little rest, it's a good pick me up and will help combat unpleasant odors or tastes.
When should you pack your hospital bag for baby's birth? Packing a bag at the beginning of the third trimester isn't unreasonable. It's one less thing to have to think about and can help calm any nerves "just in case."
Though you're not packing for an extended stay, my mindset is that it's always better to be prepared and not need it than wish you had brought it.
What other items would you include when packing a hospital bag for baby's delivery?
Linda Scruggs
Linda Scruggs RN, BSN serves as a resource for parents in the digital space, creating helpful health and wellness content. She has specialized for over 12 years in reproductive medicine, and family and women's health as a nurse. A mom of two young children, her work can be seen on her own blog via her site, lindascruggs.com, as a contributor to The Huffington Post, and created the patient education program in one of the top fertility centers in the country. Linda is all about empowerment in motherhood and would love to connect.
