Checklist
Everyone’s hospital bag checklist will be a little different. Some people might pack three bags full of comforters and slippers, while others will carry just a single duffle bag with their essentials. No matter which you choose, you’ll want to know exactly what to pack for the baby’s arrival. Here are some items that you’ll want to consider including:
-breast pump: if you’re planning on breastfeeding
-towels: one bath towel and one hand towel per person
-feminine hygiene products
-socks: two pairs per person
-toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash; lotion; hair ties; hair brush, comb, etc.
-a change of clothes for each person
-sleepwear: robes or jammies for everyone
-blankets: one lightweight blanket per person (you can also use receiving blankets)
-snacks: fruit, nuts, granola bars—whatever you like!
With all that is going on in the weeks leading up to a hospital birth and the days following, there are many details to remember. From figuring out when you should head to the hospital to what clothing you should pack, having a checklist can help make sure that you don’t forget anything important.
-Take prenatal vitamins as soon as your obstetrician tells you to so that your body will be ready for labor at the appropriate time.
-If possible, visit an obstetrician a few weeks before your due date so that any issues can be addressed before you go into labor.
-Stock up on necessities like shampoo, lotion, and toiletries so you don’t have to worry about running out at the last minute.
-Be sure to pack enough diapers for the length of your stay at hospital or until you return home. If you are breastfeeding, also pack extra breast pads and nursing pads.
-Bring a favorite blanket from home or purchase one from the hospital gift shop for baby’s first pictures.
-Pack outfits for everyone in your family. You’ll want clothes for yourself and baby both before and after delivery.
-Make sure your phone is fully charged before leaving so that you can call anyone who might need to get in touch with
If you’re like me, you can’t remember how to do anything the second after you read it. It took me two trials of packing a hospital bag before I finally got a system down. This is pretty much what I packed both times, with some additions and subtractions here and there:
Hospital Bag Checklist
