“Whether your pregnancy was meticulously planned, medically coaxed, or happened by surprise, one thing is certain—your life will never be the same.” — Catherine Jones
We all know that pregnancy is a crazy time to be in. If you’re here then you are probably nearing the finish line of this wonderful journey.
A big part of planning before your due date is getting your hospital bag ready! We’ve made a simple checklist for you on what to bring to the hospital so that there’s one less huge thing to worry about. Along with everything you need as a new mom, we also included things for your baby and partner, plus a downloadable checklist you can use for when you're packing!
Read on to see what to pack in your hospital bag for you and baby. We’re with you!
FOR MAMA
1. Comfortable clothes and Slippers
Comfortable clothes, or even robes, are important during labor and delivery as they allow for ease of movement, flexibility and comfort during various stages of any mama’s labor. This can help the mama feel more relaxed and at ease during a potentially stressful time. You can also make sure to pack an extra pair of comfy slippers.
2. Toiletries
Toiletries are important during a hospital stay, as they can help maintain personal hygiene and comfort.
• Hairbrush
• Shampoo
• Soap
• ToothBrush
• ToothPaste
• Facial Wash
• Moisturizer
• Lotion
• Deodorant
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• Lip Balm
• Face Wipes
• Wipes
• Extra Hair Ties
3. Nipple Cream
Nipple cream can be a helpful item to include in your hospital bag for after birth. Nipple cream can help soothe and protect sensitive nipples during breastfeeding, and can also help prevent and treat soreness and cracking. Just be sure to check with your healthcare provider to ensure that the nipple cream you choose is safe for use during breastfeeding.
4. Adult Diaper, and Postpartum Absorbent Underwear
They can help absorb any discharge or bleeding, and can also provide support for the perineal area. By the way, some mamas find adult diapers to be more comfortable and convenient than traditional pads, especially during the first few days after birth when heavy bleeding may occur. So check which you like better. You can also check with your healthcare provider or the hospital to see if you need to bring your own.
5. Nursing Bras
If you decide on breastfeeding immediately after birth, having a nursing bra readily available in the hospital can make it easier to nurse and can help you feel more comfortable during your stay.
6. Breast Pads
Having breast pads can help keep your clothing dry and comfortable as well as help prevent soreness and chafing.
7. Nursing Cover
For first time mamas, having a nursing cover can help women feel more comfortable and confident when breastfeeding in public or in front of others.
8. Valid IDs and Birth plan
If giving birth was a flight, your IDs would be your passport and your birth plan, your itinerary. The check-in process at the hospital will go smoothly, even if you're in a hurry or overwhelmed. You can also make sure your PhilHealth Information is ready.
9. Cellphone and Charger
This can be added last minute as we know we can’t store our phones days in advance. However, having an extra charger that is also long enough for the hospital beds and sockets would be one less thing to think about.
10. Snacks and Drinks
It is important to choose snacks that are easy to eat, non-perishable, and provide a good source of energy. For drinks, water and drinks that contain a decent amount of electrolytes are ideal. Additionally, it is a good idea to check with the hospital beforehand to see if they have any restrictions on the types of food or drinks that are allowed.
• Snacks
• Drinks
11. Reusable Water Bottle
To continue with drinking, it’s important to know that staying hydrated is crucial during labor and delivery, and having a water bottle readily available can make it easier to drink water frequently. A reusable water bottle can also help reduce waste and promote sustainability but just be sure to check with the hospital beforehand to see if they have any restrictions on the types of water bottles that are allowed.
12. Extra Pillows
Bringing extra pillows to the hospital can be helpful for added comfort during your stay. Pillows can be used to support your back, head, or legs, and can help you get comfortable in bed.
13. Extra Towels
It is a good idea to check with the hospital beforehand to see if they provide towels or if you are allowed to bring your own. Some hospitals may provide towels, while others may not.
14. Extra Wet Bags
Wet bags can be good to have in a hospital bag so you can store soiled or wet items, such as clothing, towels, breast pads, or nursing covers.
FOR BABY
1. Going home outfits
The first outfit your baby wears is a special moment and having a clean, comfortable, and warm outfit ready is a practical consideration. The outfit should be appropriate for the weather and the baby's size. It's also a good idea to bring extra clothing in case of spills or accidents.
• Onesies & Rompers
• Mittens & Booties
• Bonnets
2. Baby Toiletries and Diapers
These items can help keep the baby clean and comfortable, and can be used for the baby's daily hygiene routine. Just be sure to choose high-quality, gentle products that are appropriate for a newborn's delicate skin.
• Cleansers
• Cotton Balls
• Baby Wipes
• Diapers
3. Changing Mat
A changing mat provides a clean and comfortable surface for changing the baby's diaper, and can help keep the baby safe and secure while being changed.
4. Bath Towel and Burp Cloth
Having a baby bath towel can be a gentle way to dry the baby after a bath or a diaper change, and can help keep the baby warm and comfortable. Some other towels might be too harsh for the newborn’s skin.
5. Baby Bottles and Breast Pump
These can be important items to bring for the baby when giving birth, especially if you plan to bottle feed or pump breast milk for the baby. However, it is important to note that you should check with your healthcare provider or the hospital to see if they have any specific recommendations or if they provide any baby feeding supplies.
• Bottles
• Breast Pump
6. Burp Cloth
A burp cloth can be a useful item to bring for the baby when giving birth. It can be used to clean up after feedings, to protect clothing during feedings, and to provide a soft and comfortable surface for burping the baby.
7. Swaddles
Swaddling is a technique that involves wrapping the baby in a blanket to help soothe and calm them, and can also help them sleep more soundly. You can get nurses or other pro mamas to teach you how to do safe swaddling techniques once you’re in the hospital.
8. Blanket
A baby blanket can be used to keep the baby warm, to provide a soft and comfortable surface for the baby to rest on, and to provide privacy and comfort during feedings.
9. Baby Nest/Beddings
It is important to provide a comfortable and secure place for the baby to sleep and rest and a baby nest can be this secure place.
10. Pedia’s Contact Info
This information can include their name, phone number, and office address. Having this information readily available can be helpful in case you need to reach your pediatrician for any questions or concerns about your baby's health after you leave the hospital.
FOR PAPA
1. Sleeping Bag and Pillow
Hospitals often have limited space and uncomfortable sleeping arrangements, so a sleeping bag and an extra pillow can provide a more comfortable and convenient sleeping option.
2. Snacks
Hospital food options may be limited or not to your taste, so having some of your own preferred snacks can be beneficial.
3. Entertainment items (books, laptop, tablet etc)
Entertainment items can be helpful to bring to the hospital when you give birth to help pass the time and reduce stress.
4. Extra Clothes
Clothing is an important item to bring to the hospital when you give birth, both for yourself and your partner or husband.
5. Cash
Having cash on hand can be helpful to have in the hospital when you give birth. Some reasons for why you may need cash include the following:
- Parking fees
- Purchasing snacks or additional items from the hospital vending machine
- Payment for any additional services or treatments not covered by your insurance
NICE TO HAVE
1. Bluetooth Speaker
A Bluetooth speaker can be a useful item to bring to the hospital when you give birth, as it can help you relax and create a comfortable atmosphere. You can use it to play music, meditation or guided breathing exercises. Make sure the speaker is fully charged and bring the necessary charging cables and adapters. However, you should check with your healthcare provider or the hospital to see if they have any restrictions regarding the use of electronic devices, such as speakers.
2. Personal Playlist
Having a personal playlist or a collection of songs that you find calming or uplifting can be helpful to have in the hospital when you give birth. You can play this music through a Bluetooth speaker or a personal device to create a relaxing atmosphere and help manage labor pains.
3. Diffuser
You can use it to diffuse essential oils that can help you manage labor pains and reduce stress and anxiety. Don’t forget to check first if this is allowed in your hospital.
4. Portable Fan
A portable fan can be helpful to have in the hospital when you give birth, especially if the room is warm.
5. Extra Bags
They can help you store and organize your personal belongings, as well as any items you may need to bring home with you. For example, you can use them to store dirty clothes, used baby items, or any extra linens or towels. When packing extra bags, make sure they are compact and lightweight, as space can be limited in the hospital room. Additionally, you may want to label the bags to ensure you can quickly identify what's inside.
And that’s it! You're all set.
You can start packing your hospital bag for the baby as early as your 28th week, but no later than your 37th! When the time comes to give birth, all you have to do is grab your bag and go.
Download this checklist below.
