Must Pack Items for your Hospital Bag When Delivering Your Baby | Sterling Heights Newborn Photography

Hey there, mom-to-be! As your due date approaches, excitement and anticipation are likely building up. One way to ensure a smooth and stress-free delivery experience is packing your hospital bag in advance. I’d recommend having it packed and handy at 34 weeks just in case you need it! Having everything you need ready will help you feel more relaxed and prepared when the big day arrives. In this blog post, I'll guide you through what to pack in your hospital bag, covering essentials for you, your baby, and your partner. Also, I’ve dropped a MAJOR tip at the end that you’ll want to know about, so let’s read on!

For Mom: Your comfort and well-being are top priorities during labor and postpartum recovery. Here are some must-haves for you:

1. Comfortable Clothing:

   • Loose-fitting gown or robe: For comfort during labor and after delivery.

   • Maternity bras and nursing tops: Easy access for breastfeeding.

   • Slides: Easy to slide on sandals for getting up to use the restroom, walking the halls, etc.

   • Going-home outfit: Choose something loose and comfortable, like a maternity dress or sweatpants and a top.

2. Toiletries and Personal Care:

   • Toothbrush and toothpaste: Freshen up after meals and rest.

   • Hairbrush and hair ties: Keep your hair tidy and out of the way.

   • Lip balm: Hospital air can be drying.

   • Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash: Refresh yourself with a quick shower (let’s be honest, a shower will feel amazing.)

   • Deodorant: Stay fresh and comfortable.

   • Face wipes: Easy way to cleanse your face.

3. Labor Essentials:

   • Birth plan: Have a copy for your healthcare team, but also be flexible and ready, as every birth is different and typically goes differently than you plan!

   • Insurance information and ID: For hospital admission.

   • Snacks and drinks: You won’t be able to eat or drink during delivery, but these will come in handy for the day or so you’re in the hospital after your newborn baby is born.

   • Phone charger: Of course.

4. Postpartum Care:

   • Maternity pads: Hospitals provide some, but having extras is helpful.

   • Nipple cream: For breastfeeding moms to soothe those sore nipples.

   • Belly Band: Ask the hospital for a belly band. It can help provide comfort to your tummy in your recovery, and some moms swear it helps them bounce back to their pre-baby bod faster.

For Baby: Your little one will need some essentials for their first few days in the world:

1. Clothing and Blankets:

   • Onesies and sleepers: Pack a few in newborn and 0-3 month sizes.

   • Socks and mittens: Keep those tiny feet and hands warm.

   • Going-home outfit: Something cute and comfortable for baby’s first trip home.

   • Car seat blanket: To keep baby cozy for the ride home, especially during those cold months.

2. Diapers and Wipes:

   • Newborn diapers: Pack a small pack to start.

   • Baby wipes: Gentle and unscented.

   • Diaper bag: Have it packed and ready, although the hospital will have diapers and wipes for you.

3. Feeding Supplies:

   • Bottles and formula: If you're not breastfeeding, the hospital will provide formula in bottles for you.

   • Breastfeeding pillow: Helpful for nursing moms or if you’re a low maintenance type of gal, just use an extra hospital pillow.

4. Other Essentials:

   • Car seat: Ensure it’s installed and ready to go. The hospital won’t let you leave without it!

For Your Partner: Your partner will also benefit from having some essentials packed, especially since they’ll be sleeping on that uncomfortable pull out bed at the hospital:

1. Comfortable Clothing:

   • Change of clothes: Fresh clothes for an extended stay.

   • Comfortable shoes: For walking around the hospital.

2. Personal Items:

   • Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any other personal care items.

   • Snacks and drinks: To stay energized and hydrated.

3. Entertainment and Essentials:

   • Books or magazines: For downtime.

   • Phone charger: Obviously :)

   • Pillow and blanket: For comfort during the stay

You’ve made it this far, so you’ve earned it. Here’s the BIG TIP. The hospital fully expects you to empty out the baby bassinet/cart that is filled with diapers, wipes, pacifiers and MORE, so don’t be shy. Usually the nurse will remind you to take it all home, but if she forgets, please know it’s FOR YOU. Also, you can ask for samples of baby formula, and they’ll happily provide you with some to take home. Don’t forget to ask for a belly band, too!

I hope this blog is helpful to you as you prepare for the big delivery day! You'll be well-prepared for a comfortable and memorable hospital stay. Remember to double-check your list and adjust it to your personal preferences and needs. Best of luck, and soon you'll be meeting your little one!

Feel free to let me know if I missed any must-pack items so I can add them to the list! No gatekeeping here, Friends!

xo,

Chelsie

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Chelsie Maurer is an award winning photographer specializing in Maternity, Newborn, Child and Family sessions serving Birmingham, Chesterfield, Macomb, Oakland Township, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, Shelby Township, Sterling Heights, Troy, Utica, Washington Township, West Bloomfield and the greater Metro Detroit areas. Her photography studio is located Downtown Utica, Michigan.