Preparing a hospital bag for birth is an important task for expectant mothers. Here is a list of items to consider packing based on the search results:
For Mom:
- Comfortable clothes for postpartum
- A robe
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, hairbrush, hair ties, etc.)
- Nursing bras and pads
- Underwear (disposable or comfortable)
- Socks or slippers
- Phone charger
- Pillow and blanket
- Snacks and drinks
- Diversions like a book or magazine
- Optional items: diffuser, portable fan, bath towel, hairdryer, earbuds, a comfy pillow from home, etc.
For Baby:
- Infant car seat with instructions
- Going-home outfit
- Hat
- Booties or socks
- Receiving blankets
- Newborn diapers (if they do not have the umbilical cord area cut out, make sure you fold them down)
- Wipes
- Mittens
Nice-to-haves:
- Bottles (if you plan to bottle-feed from the get-go)
- Swaddles
- Portable fan
- A cooler filled with drinks and sandwiches
- Quarters for the vending machine and/or payphone
It is recommended to have the hospital bag ready to go by 36-37 weeks pregnant, just in case you go into labor before your due date. While timing is important, you do have some flexibility in deciding when to pack your hospital bag.
