Hospital bag must-haves for mom and baby
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Whether prepping for your first baby or your third, the maternity and postpartum market can be overwhelming. With the nursery painted, diapers stocked, and the baby shower behind you, we’re narrowing down what to pack in your delivery-day bag (like these amazing Target maternity leggings) so you can relax and “add to cart,” stress-free!
Image Credit: Stephanie McKenna Photography
Here are some of our must-haves and faves for the big day:
But first…you need the perfect bag, and we’ve got it. Meet the CalPak Luka Duffel. This bag has the ideal amount of space, huge pockets, and even a compartment for your slippers. Not to mention it’s sturdy, beautiful, and you will reach for it again and again!
Extra long charger cord: There’s so much hospital equipment plugged into the outlets right behind your bed. Sometimes the next closest plug is a few feet away.
Comfy clothes: Whether you deliver vaginally or via c-section, you’ll want high-waisted pants. Loose shirts, or a button-down if you plan on breastfeeding).
This softest set for the hospital and postpartum
Target maternity leggings are a must!
These lounge pants that you can wear during pregnancy and postpartum
Slippers or non-slip socks: While the hospital always has grippy socks, you may be more comfortable in your own pair of slippers.
Postpartum underwear: Again, think high-waisted, stretchy, and comfortable.
Hygiene essentials: Toothbrush, shampoo, soap, and don’t forget chapstick.
Wireless Bluetooth speaker: The ability to turn on soothing music during labor can be a lifesaver - or to crank up that “push playlist” when the time comes!
More must-haves for mom and baby…
After d-day, be ready for postpartum at-home:
We promised a list of what to pack for delivery day, but those first couple of days at home with a newborn can be overwhelming too. Between keeping track of their sleep, feeding, and poop schedules…it’s a lot! Remember to also take care of yourself and create a basket of postpartum essentials:
Ice packs (We love these from Frida Mom!)
Peri bottle (Many hospitals will have one for you, be sure to grab one before you go…or pick-up this one!)
Witch hazel cooling pad liners to soothe pain and swelling after vaginal birth
Disposable underwear (Pro tip: Your recovery nurse will fill your bag, don’t be shy!)
Set-up a few prepackaged snacks, water bottles, and pain meds in the spaces you plan to spend the most time: nursery, bedroom, and living room.
We see you, c-section mamas!
This dual-use heat or ice band will be your best friend
Keep a pillow nearby to hold over your incision when you laugh, sneeze, or cough. Trust us.
If you’re planning on breastfeeding or pumping, you’ll definitely need a few (ok, all) of these:
Nursing bras (Kindred Bravely and Gratlin make some comfortable and supportive bras for nursing)
Breastpump (Pro tip: If you don’t have one yet, many hospitals will have one for you to borrow while you’re there. If it’s your first time using a breast pump, you can bring it with you and ask the lactation consultant to help you!)
Nursing bra pads (Because #leaking, IYKYK)
The hospital will already have everything for the baby…
…but if you’ve got some time and space in your bag, why not snag a few more goodies to amp up this special stay?
While your newest family member may live in jammies, you might want a newborn outfit for those photo ops!
One or two pairs of pajamas (especially to wear on the ride home)
Polaroid camera (and film!) for you and your partner, the nurses, or visitors to snap some candids you can hang in the nursery right when you get home
Pro tip: Most of the items the hospital has in your baby’s cart are free to take. Ask your nurse! You can likely bring home the sleep sack, swaddle, pacifier, diapers, and even formula.
