Experienced Moms Share: What You Really Need in Your Hospital Bag
Experienced Moms Share: What You Really Need in Your Hospital Bag
As your due date approaches, one of the most important things to prepare is your hospital bag. If you're wondering what to pack for labor and delivery, you’re not alone—many expecting moms face this challenge! To make things easier, we’ve turned to experienced moms who’ve been there to share their top recommendations. Skip the unnecessary items and focus on what you’ll actually use, plus a few extras to keep you comfortable.
Whether it’s essentials for yourself, your baby, or your birthing partner, this checklist covers everything you’ll need for a smooth and stress-free hospital stay.
1. Hospital Bag Essentials for Moms: Pack Smart
First and foremost, focus on comfort and functionality. The labor and postpartum recovery period can be unpredictable, so having the right items will make all the difference.
What you’ll need:
- Comfortable Clothing: Opt for a cozy nursing-friendly nightgown and a soft robe for postpartum. You’ll want easy access for nursing, so pack practical clothes from our nursing essentials collection.
- Toiletries: Think of the basics—your toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, deodorant, and lip balm. Post-labor can be dry, so having your favorite skincare products can help you feel refreshed.
- Postpartum Care Items: Bring sanitary pads, perineal spray, and nursing pads. You’ll find great postpartum recovery items in our nursing and postpartum collection.
- Slippers & Socks: Hospital floors can be cold, so don’t forget non-slip socks or cozy slippers.
2. Essentials for Baby: Bringing Home Your Little One
The hospital may provide some items for your baby, but it's always better to be prepared with your own.
What to pack for baby:
- Going-Home Outfit: Pack a few onesies and an outfit for that memorable going-home moment. Check out our trendy newborn outfits in the baby clothing section.
- Swaddle Blanket: Hospitals often provide blankets, but bringing your own soft swaddle blanket adds a personal touch. Explore our cozy blankets collection.
- Car Seat: Make sure your car seat is installed before heading to the hospital—you won’t be able to leave without it.
3. Must-Haves for Your Partner
Your partner will likely be with you throughout the process, so it's important to pack a few items to ensure their comfort as well.
Essentials for your partner:
- Comfortable Clothes: Make sure they pack extra clothes, especially if labor is long.
- Snacks & Drinks: Labor can be long, so bring snacks and drinks for your partner to stay fueled.
- Chargers & Electronics: Phones, cameras, and chargers are a must to capture your baby’s first moments.
4. Extras for Comfort
Labor can be unpredictable, so having some comfort items on hand can help you feel more relaxed.
Additional comfort items:
- Pillow & Blanket: Hospital pillows aren’t always the comfiest, so consider bringing your own.
- Essential Oils: If aromatherapy calms you, bring a diffuser or a few essential oils.
- Eye Mask & Earplugs: Hospitals can be noisy and bright, so an eye mask or earplugs can help you rest.
5. What to Leave Behind
While it’s tempting to overpack, here are some things you can safely leave at home:
- Jewelry: You’ll likely be asked to remove it during labor, so leave your valuables at home.
- Diapers & Wipes: Most hospitals provide these, so save your own supply for when you get home.
Conclusion: Pack with Confidence
By following this checklist from experienced moms, you’ll have everything you need for a stress-free hospital stay. Focus on comfort, essentials, and practical items to make your labor and postpartum experience as smooth as possible. For all your nursing and baby essentials, shop at Elijah Elliotte to find everything from newborn outfits to cozy blankets for your little one’s arrival.