Maternity bag checklist: For mum, baby and partner
Welcoming a new member in the family is an exhilarating yet nerve-wracking experience. You want to feel ready for the big day so to avoid the stress of forgetting something when packing your maternity hospital bag we have put together a list of essentials and some top tips.
To help out, we have put together a list of essentials and some top tips based on our personal journeys.
First advice pack for 2/3 nights stay, Morgane knows something about it has she stayed 3 days at the hospital (she is happy to share her epic birth story another time)!
When should you start packing?
This is a questions that a lot of mums to be ask. There is no right or wrong. You can start packing anytime you feel ready if this gives you reassurance. But, we do recommend not later than 36 weeks, to ensure preparedness in case the baby decides to make an early entrance into the world.
What are the essentials to pack for yourself?
Comfortable Clothing
Pack loose-fitting nightgowns or pyjamas with front buttons opening to facilitate skin-to-skin and breastfeeding, comfortable underwear, a robe for walking around the hospital or a couple of comfortable outfits, and slippers or comfortable shoes, some mums have swollen feet after giving birth. Don’t forget to pack your going-home outfit too!
For breastfeeding moms, nursing bras and breast pads can provide comfort and support. Don’t forget the nipple cream can help you if your nipples get soar at the beginning. This is normal, you and your baby are learning! For bottle feeding mums, we advise you to ask your midwife if you should bring formula and bottles as some hospital may have different policy.
Toiletries
Bring essential toiletries: like a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hairbrush, cotton pads, and any skincare items for personal hygiene. You can also bring your stretch mark oil if you wish to continue applying it after birth (Jess and I did).
Postpartum care items: maternity pads, and comfortable underwear, bring a couple of high-wasted underwear even if you don’t plan to have a c-section. Little advice, Witch-Hazel flower water for your perineal area, it will gently soothe soreness and discomfort.
Comfort items
Don’t hesitate to bring your favourite pillow, music player, or essential oils for relaxation. You want to be as comfy as you can during this time.
Snacks and Drinks
Bring your favourite snacks and drinks can be vital for energy during labor and recovery. Personal experience, plan to have some Lucozade for the big day with you because if you have the epidural this is the only thing you will be able to have.
What are the essentials to pack for the baby?
Clothing
Pack several newborn bodysuits (recommend the crossover bodysuits, it will be easier to dress them up), sleepsuits, sleeping bag, socks, hats, and mittens for the baby's warmth and comfort. Don’f forget the going-home outfit for baby too, a vest, sleepsuit and a jacket, you can add a warm blanket if it is winter. We advise to avoid snowsuit or big jacket for baby as it will not work with the car seat (Morgane was told off at the hospital by a nurse ah ah).
Muslims
They will be very handy to use as a cover or simply when you are breastfeeding.
Swaddle blankets
Soft, lightweight blankets for swaddling and keeping the baby cozy.
Diapers and wipes
Bring a supply of newborn-sized diapers and wipes or cotton wool if you prefer.
What are the essentials your partner should pack?
Comfortable clothing
Pack a change of comfortable clothes for the partner, along with any toiletries they might need.
Snacks
Consider packing snacks and a phone charger.
Do not forget
Medical documents
Gather identification, insurance papers, and any necessary hospital paperwork in a folder for easy access. Necessary medications or creams suggested by your healthcare provider.
Car Seat
Install the car seat in advance to ensure a safe journey home from the hospital.