Toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shower gel and shampoo, hair brush and ties, moisturiser and hand cream. Breast pads – A couple of boxes for when your milk comes in. Sanitary pads – A pack or two of 'super' or special 'maternity' pads. Glasses/contact lenses – Easy to forget, impossible to do without!
Suggested items include: a change of clothes including warm clothes (hospitals are notoriously cold), snacks, phone charger, swimmers (in case you plan to use the shower or the bath in labour), toiletries, insulated coffee cup and a water bottle. Watch: We share our weirdest pregnancy cravings.
Aim for one outfit in newborn size and one 0-3 months. Don't forget hats and/or socks, if weather-appropriate. Your pediatrician's contact information. The doctors and nurses will ask you for this information several times, so it's good to have it handy.
Some hospitals require you to wear the delivery gowns they provide. If your hospital doesn't have a preference, consider getting a special labor and delivery gown (with access for breastfeeding, an IV, an epidural, etc.) to maximize your comfort and confidence (much softer than a hospital gown).
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag? You should have your hospital bag ready to go between weeks 32 and 35 of your pregnancy, in case your baby comes a bit earlier than expected. A good time to start the packing process is around the 28 week mark, or at the start of your 3rd trimester.
something loose and comfortable to wear during labour that does not restrict you from moving around or make you too hot. 3 changes of loose, comfortable clothes. 2 or 3 comfortable and supportive bras, including nursing bras if you're planning to breastfeed – remember, your breasts will be much larger than usual.
About 20 to 30 nappies made especially for newborns, like Pampers Premium Protection New Baby. Your newborn might get through 10-12 nappies each day. Wipes.
If you choose to bottle feed – you will need to bring enough pre-packed bottles of a readymade newborn formula into hospital with you to last for your stay. We recommend that you purchase at least one 'starter pack' of first infant milk containing 6 bottles and 6 teats.
Socks and Caps - The hospital will likely provide hats and socks to keep your baby warm, but you could bring a few of these items as they won't take up much room in your hospital bag. Pacifiers - You can bring a few pacifiers if you want to test out the different styles.
Yes! You'll need to bring nappies and wipes to the hospital. Although the hospital will have some nappies and wipes available, you'll be expected to bring enough for your baby.
Most hospitals will provide the same basic items for new moms to take home after giving birth. Hospitals will give out things like peri bottles, maternity pads, and comfort items for moms. The hospital will give out things like hats, blankets, diapers, and formula samples for the new baby.
A lot of mothers want breast coverage while they deliver, which is completely understandable, and you can keep your bra on during labor if you want. However, we recommend wearing a simple bra that is comfortable and easy to remove.
Newborn Swaddles or Gowns
Most hospitals prefer to dress babies simply, either in just a diaper and swaddled in a flannel blanket, or in a side-snap bodysuit or basic gown. (All of these items will be provided for you.)
Your own clothing
One advantage to wearing hospital-issued gowns is that you won't care if they're ruined during delivery. If you do choose to wear your own clothing, opt for something loose on top. There will be a lot of action below the waist, so pajama bottoms or a pair of sleep shorts aren't necessary.
You should definitely wash baby's clothes, blankets and other washable items that will come in contact with their skin. It's not necessary to do it before they're born, but it's a good idea to do it before they wear them.
Bleeding often lasts for around for four to six weeks, but could last up to 12 weeks after your baby's born (RCOG, 2016). If you're worried, you can talk to a health professional. Bleeding will start off heavy and red to browny red. It will become lighter in colour and flow over time (NHS, 2021).
Once upon a time, hospitals shaved pregnant women before delivery. Now, shaving isn't recommended at all.
In the hospital, blankets and onesies are typically provided. If you'd like to bring baby his/her own clothes to wear during your stay or a special outfit, please do so, but it isn't required. Don't forget a seasonally-appropriate outfit for baby to wear home!
Pillow* - Hospitals provide a pillow, but if you LOVE your pillow, bring your own. Make sure to have a non-white pillowcase, as to not get it confused with the hospital's pillows. Blanket* - Hospitals tend to be on the chillier side and the blankets they provide are not always the warmest.