Preparing your hospital bag is an essential part of getting ready for baby’s arrival. Compiling a good list of what to take with you to the hospital and getting organized for baby can provide peace of mind.
Due to the pandemic, hospital rules including procedures and visitation policies are a little different. It is my understanding that many if not almost all hospitals are not allowing visitors.
As we await the arrival of our little one, I have compiled a list of things we believe will make our hospital stay more comfortable. Many of these items were also on my list for our hospital bag with our firstborn.
Stuff for Mom
- Two nursing friendly pajamas
- Fuzzy socks and/or slippers
- Robe
- Refillable water bottle
- “Flowy” dress or comfy outfit to wear home
- Two nursing bras
- Blanket for comfort
- Pillow (if you are accustomed to yours)
- Prenatal vitamins
- Three to five pairs of comfy undies and/or adult diapers
- Shower flip flops (if desired)
- Nursing pillow
Stuff for Baby
- Two outfits (announcement outfit/going home outfit)
- Two sleepers or mittens
- Two receiving blankets (many hospitals provide some)
- Two swaddles
- Two pairs of socks
- Pacifier (if you do not want to use the one provided by the hospital)
- Bows/Baby hats
- Diaper bag
- Carseat
Stuff for Dad
- Three changes of clothes (outfit, boxers, socks)
- Sweats/Pajamas
- Shirt for going home photos
- Sheet set (twin might be best)
- Refillable water bottle
- Pillow (if he is accustomed to his)
Toiletries
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss for mom and dad
- Deodorant for mom and dad
- Dry shampoo, hairbrush, and hair ties
- Face wipes and/or face wash
- Lip balm or chapstick
- Makeup (even though you may not use it much)
- Towels for mom and dad (many parents feel most comfortable taking their own towels)
Electronics and Other Things You May Need
- Extra-long phone charger
- Portable charger
- Laptop and charger
- Wallet (make sure you have your driver’s license and insurance card)
- Fan
- White noise sound machine
- Snacks (load up since you possibly will not be able to have visitors bring anything)
- Night light
Typically, hospitals provide basically everything else that you may need like postpartum essentials. They also tend to give you some essential items to take home.
Please let us know in the comments below if there are any MUST HAVE items that we did not include. We would love to know!
