The number 1 question we get from expectant parents as their due date nears is “What should I pack in my hospital bag?” You have enough to worry about when you’re welcoming your little one. The right items to have at the hospital shouldn’t feel overwhelming. Let’s go through some essentials as well as some of those items that you might forget!
Do I need special clothing?
When you settle into the hospital to start your labor and delivery process, you will most likely be handed a gown to wear. Whether you are ready for a vaginal birth or walking in for a planned C-Section, these gowns are pretty standard. They allow for the needed wires, needles, epidurals, etc. to give your healthcare team access to all parts of your body. Bringing your own hospital gown may add a personal touch to your delivery day. We love Kindred Bravely’s line of Labor and Delivery Gowns.
After helping thousands of moms prepare for this special day, we can also say that simple ways to make your hospital stay cozier can always give you a little peace of mind. A great loungewear set, slippers, and slip-proof socks will also make your time in the hospital a bit comfier.
If you’re planning to breastfeed, you may also consider bringing some clothing to make the process simpler. You will be nursing around the clock, so easy is key! We’re huge fans of comfortable nursing bras and tanktops for the hospital days. They allow for hands-free nursing as you’re learning how to meet your little one’s hungry tummy. We also love keeping a tank on so you can easily add extra layers (like a zip up sweatshirt) as needed. Check out the Larken X Bra + Signature Tank for comfy hospital clothing as well as beyond.
Pro-Tip: You can also wear Larken’s items while pregnant. Check below to see how Kaitlyn styles her Larken tank.
Throughout your pregnancy journey, you may have found leggings to be the most comfortable item. Throw a pair in your hospital bag, which can offer gentle, postpartum compression. They are also nursing-friendly, keeping your core supported throughout the early days in the hospital. We love Belly Bandit’s Mother Tucker Leggings (seriously, how great is this name?!).
What about items to help me heal?
In the first few days postpartum, your body is going through a deep recovery. While the hospital will have everything you ‘need,’ there are some better options out there that are easy to slip into your hospital bag.
This recovery can sometimes be a bit messy. We spend so much time and energy learning how to care for our new bundle, that we often forget to take care of ourselves. One thing we love is the New Mom Gift Box by TOP. The plant-based organic materials have been created by experienced moms who have ‘been there, done that’ and envisioned a much better way.
We also love Earth Mama, (especially their Nipple Butter and Perineal Balm). Pro-tip: The Nipple Butter is also great for chapped lips, and since the hospital is super dry, a hospital must have!
A belly band can also be something that supports your core while you heal. If you ask for one at the hospital, they will usually provide you with one. If you’d like to bring your own, Belly Bandit has some great options.
Other things I might forget?
Two things people tend to forget: A cell phone charger and your paperwork/health insurance card for the hospital. Put both of these someplace so you won’t forget. Most hospitals will send you home with quite a bit of information, so you may even want to bring a folder to store everything for later. And don’t forget that cell phone charger! You will be snapping lots of photos throughout your time in the hospital.
Looking for an all-in-one hospital bag solution?
There are two types of moms we work with – those who like to pack their own hospital bag and those who prefer to have it arrive at their home pre-packed with excellent, non-toxic products. Baby Boldly Birth Bags are for both! Their bags come in a variety of sizes, from ‘Minimalist’ to ‘Fully Prepared.’ Full of great items that you may forget, you will have plenty of toiletries, hair ties, and the wonderful ‘grippy socks!’ Deisgned ‘by mamas, for mamas’ they even offer a Pack-it-Yourself Bag, great for experienced moms who know exactly what they’ll need.
Listen to two of our experts talk about Baby Boldly below:
See more top tips:
What to Put on Your Baby Registry
Ultimate Hospital Bag Packing List
Hospital Bag Musts – The things you may forget!
