Preparing for the big day of labor and delivery can be both exciting and scary. We also know that “Mom brain” takes over during pregnancy and sometimes you just need a reminder of what to pack in a hospital bag for mom!
Don’t worry! We have you covered and have rounded up ideas from experienced moms on what you need to pack in the bag. We cover what you will need for labor and delivery, after delivery, things for baby, and things for dad. As a bonus we have some optional items that you may consider bringing.
Make sure to have your hospital bag for mom packed by 36 weeks with anything that can be packed early. Just in case the baby decides to come early you won’t be scrambling last minute. The only thing you should worry about packing when heading to the hospital is the last few toiletries like your toothbrush.
Things to Pack in a Hospital Bag for Mom
For Labor and Delivery
- Birth plan: Many moms have a birth plan for their labor and delivery. If you are very specific in what you want, consider typing it up and making copies for the hospital and your chart.
- ID, Insurance, names of doctors and hospital paperwork: Pre-register at the hospital! Pre-registering will take care of most of the paperwork. Otherwise, make sure to have an ID, the name of your insurance, the name of your OBGYN, and primary care doctor.
- Robe: A nice robe is a perfect thing to slip around that hospital gown and allow you to go on a walk down the halls. Pick one that is comfy and makes you feel nice!
- Slippers and flip flops: Great for walking around the hospital, you will want a comfy pair of slippers or flip flops. Flip flops are also great to use in the shower.
- Lip balm: A good lip balm is a must-have at all times! You will be glad to not have dry chapped lips during and after delivery.
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- Lotion: Don’t deal with dry hands while you are at the hospital by remembering to pack your favorite lotion. Lotion can double as a massage lubricant. Back massages by dad can be very soothing and relaxing during the labor process.
- Toiletries: Make sure to bring your toiletries from home. This includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, favorite shampoo and conditioner, comb, brush, and anything you need to do your hair with.
- Cosmetics: While we’re not one to have a birth photographer, some people love the photo documentation of their baby’s special day. Even if you don’t have a photographer, we suggest bringing your cosmetic collection. Not only will putting on some make-up help you to feel put together and “yourself” again, but you will also want to take lots of pictures with and of the baby. Visitors will also most likely be dropping in to see you and baby.
- Comfy clothes: Make sure to bring comfy clothes, usually around the 6-month maternity size is right. No, you will not be back to your old shape right after birth. Give yourself some time to return to your old size! In the meantime, bring some comfy clothes: yoga pants, sweatpants, house dresses, etc.
- Extra-long cell phone charging cord: Many moms are so glad they bring an extra long cell phone cord. This will enable you to plug in your phone and still be able use it while sitting in your bed.
- Nursing bra: If you plan on breastfeeding, plan on bringing two nursing bras for your hospital stay. Remember to go with comfort again here!
- Nursing pads: Along with nursing bras, it is nice to have a few nursing pads on hand. They will prevent your breast from leaking through your nursing bra.
- Nipple Cream: Often the hospital will have some if you forget, but it is best to just bring a tube of your own nipple cream. Start applying right away and your nipples will be glad you did! With brands such as Lanolin that are free from preservatives, parabens, fragrance, or taste, there is no need to remove before breastfeeding.
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- Pillows: We don’t know about you, but we always sleep better with our own pillows! The hospital will have pillows for you, but they are not the same as your own pillow. Getting some good rest after and before delivery is key! Just make sure to use a pillowcase color other than white so it doesn’t get confused with the hospital pillows.
- Portable Bluetooth speaker and playlist: Many people recommend having a playlist just for labor and delivery. If this is on your plan, make sure to bring a Bluetooth speaker in your hospital bag for mom! It will give a much better sound that just using your phone. This Anker Soundcore has a battery that lasts 24 hours and has a 66-foot range.
Things To Pack for Baby
- Car seat: As you probably know, you can’t leave the hospital without a car seat for your baby. Make sure to pack the car seat in the car when you are around 36 weeks so that it is ready to go!
- Going-home outfit: This is probably the most fun thing to pack. You may want to bring a few different sizes of clothes just in case! It’s best to pack newborn and one-month sizes. If you might be having your baby early, pack a preemie size as well.
- Pediatrician’s contact information: The hospital will be asking for your pediatrician information. Make sure to have the name of the office, the doctor’s name, and a phone number to give the nurses.
- Socks and booties: Your baby is used to being cocooned in the womb. Bring some socks and/or booties to keep their toes nice and warm.
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- Blanket: A blanket is a must-have at the hospital. The hospital will likely have some blankets for babies to use during their stay, but we find it is nice to have your own on hand. We love using the muslin swaddle blankets to swaddle baby at the hospital. They also make a great going home blanket as well.
- Diaper bag: A diaper bag is a must-have. You can pack baby’s clothes, blanket, and socks in the bag. But, make sure it is not all the way full. This is a great place to put all the freebies the hospital will give you! Using this includes quite a few diapers and wipes, as well as supplemental formula if you need it. We recommend using a diaper backpack. Check out our favorite diaper backpacks for moms in this article.
Things to Have at Home
- Adult Diapers: Some people suggest taking these to the hospital. We recommend just having them at home since the hospital will have what you need for your stay.
- Tucks: Buy the tucks! Your bum will thank you! They will be very soothing as your body heals after labor. They are pH-balanced, hypo-allergenic, and dye-free.
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- Donut-pillow: Some hospitals will provide a donut pillow and others do not. It is nice to have to sit down the week after birth. A Boppy pillow can also double as a sitting pillow.
- Boppy pillow: A Boppy pillow makes feeding baby much more comfortable. Even if you plan on mostly bottle feeding, a Boppy pillow will allow you to feed your baby with less strain on your arms.
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- Postpartum kit: Get a whole postpartum kit. Frida offers many products for moms including an entire postpartum kit. This kit comes with a toiletries bag, delivery gown, socks, peri bottle, disposable underwear, instant ice maxi padsicles, witch hazel pad liners, and perineal healing foam.
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What Your Husband Should Pack
- Snacks: Dad should have a lot of snacks handy so they don’t have to leave the hospital if they don’t have to.
- Entertainment: You never know how long labor and delivery will last. There may be a lot of downtime that your husband can use laptops, phones, books, and music to pass the time.
- Blanket and pillow: Most hospitals will provide a chair or couch for your husband. His nights at the hospital will be more comfortable if he brings a good pillow and a large blanket.
- Clothes and toiletries: Since your husband will likely be spending a day or two with you at the hospital, it is important that he packs changes of clothes and toiletries as well. He should have a labor “to-go” bag just like you so he’s ready to go when the baby comes.
Optional Items in a Hospital Bag for Mom
- Travel or compact blow dryer: Hospitals may have a blow dryer available, but if you have a small or travel blow dryer, you may want to bring it in your hospital bag for mom. One of our favorite compact blow dryers is this Berta. It is small enough to fit in a handbag with 1000W of power. Even though it is small it will dry hair fast.
- Bath Towel: If you like soft and large towels, make sure to bring your own. It is not necessary since the hospital does have its own towels. However, if you want luxury soft towels, you will need to bring your own.
- Light reading (magazines): During labor and after you may have a few moments to pass. Bring some light reading such as short stories or magazines. Definitely don’t go for heavy ready, you just won’t be able to concentrate on something too deep.
- Matching outfits for you and baby: What is cuter than matching with your newborn baby? If you want to match, bring a matching going home outfit for you and baby. There are so many options for matching outfits these days available on Etsy, Amazon, and Target. With so many choices, you can find one that perfectly matches your personality. We like this taco and taquito set.
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Packing it Up
Preparation is key when packing your hospital bag for mom. Have your bag mostly packed by the time you are 36 to 37 weeks. Most of your items can be packed ahead of time. Make a checklist of the items that need to be packed just before you leave. This will help ensure that you will not forget anything you want at home!
Preparing for a baby can be overwhelming. There are so many things to purchase and so many options. Make your life easier by checking out some of our favorites. We have a list of our favorite high chairs, car seats, and baby monitors.
Congratulations on your bundle of joy! Feel prepared for your little one by packing your hospital bag for mom. Bring a few of the comforts of home, but don’t take the kitchen sink!