What do you really need to pack in your hospital bag?
Years ago we published a blog with a comprehensive list, 20 Items to Pack in your Hospital/Birth Center Bag. Although that list may be helpful, we have found that for some it is just too much, and includes some items you may not NEED. So, today we are focusing on a Hospital Bag Checklist for the Minimalist Mom. As busy mom’s we quickly learn what’s truly essential, and the items listed below only include those!
Yes, the hospital will have their gowns for you to wear, however I have found that they are quite stiff and uncomfortable. Also, please note that if you are delivering at Birth Center, they do not have gowns. Kindred Bravely has some incredibly soft options that include all the buttons to quickly remove that item for skin-to-skin time.
In the days following the birth of your baby, and while still in the hospital, you will be nursing on demand so a comfortable Nursing Bra is a must. You can quickly unhook each side for easy access. Again, we prefer the brand Kindred Bravely for a great selection of Nursing Bras.
As you know, you will still have that beautiful baby belly after delivery and will likely embrace some ice for your bottom and/or back and belly. We LOVE this item from Kindred Bravely, that not only gives your belly some support, but also has slits where you can place cold gel packs on your bottom, belly, and back. Read more about The Soothing Fourth Trimester Panty with Gel Packs on a past blog post we published, where we try on a review lots of items from this company.
If you want ALL of the above, plus some, this is the BEST deal! Bundle and Save by visiting Kindred Bravely now. You can use How2Mom15 to save an additional 15% off!
Pillow from Home
Comfort leads to an increase in the necessary hormone to birth a baby, oxytocin. Bringing a pillow from your home that has your smell and preferred firmness will give you a feeling of comfort that you deserve.
You’re going to want this and birthing facilities do not provide these on hand! For convenience, we have linked some options here or you can access the link by clicking the picture below.
Prescriptions
If you or your partner take any daily prescription medications, pack those up. Also, if you have been taking a prenatal (we hope!), you can pack and continue to take that as well!
Consider comfortable clothing for after baby is born. It is a good idea to bring stretchy, breathable attire. We kindly suggest darker bottoms. Bring along a favorite robe too! These are awesome for wearing over nursing tanks/nightgowns if you don’t feel like completely getting dressed and ready. When considering sizing, it is usually safe to pack pieces that fit you when you were around 5-6 months pregnant. Though baby is out in the world, you will very likely still have that beautiful bump. One of our favorite items is linked here, or you can access by clicking the picture below.
Snacks are a MUST and we have SO many suggestions! Plan to bring things that will help keep your energy and hydration levels up. We suggest the How2Mom Protein Energy Balls, MammaChia Squeeze Snacks, TrailMix, Protein Bars, Seedless Grapes and so much more. Check out some of our options HERE.
Though many hospitals/birthing centers will provide you with a large water bottle upon your admission, it is always smart to bring your own just in case. Also, bringing along your own will help you stay hydrated en route to the birthing facility of your choosing. If the center provides you with your own – your partner will have something ready to help keep them hydrated along the way. Supporting someone in labor is a big job too! For convenience, we have linked some options for you. Access the link by clicking here or the picture below.
It’s always a good idea to bring any toiletries you may need. We highly suggest bringing your own shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hair accessories and deodorant. It is nice to freshen up after the laboring process is complete and a vast majority of birthing facilities do not carry these items in the labor/delivery department. You may be able to find some of them in a “gift shop”, but we just recommend packing This Set just to be safe!
Phone/Phone Charger
Of COURSE you are going to be needing your cellphone for updates and pictures, so don’t forget your charger too!
Music has the power to not only motivate you during labor, but to comfort you as well. Find a song that means something special to you. Perhaps it is something that you have been singing to your little one while they grow in your belly. Or maybe it is a special song for you and your partner! Whether you choose to listen to a specific tune, the How2Mom Labor Playlist, or just soothing sounds from nature, packing along a speaker is something you won’t regret. One of our favorites is linked HERE or by clicking the picture below.
Have fun with this one! Imagining what your little one is going to wear home can be such a fun way of preparing for their arrival. Just make sure to consider comfort, dressing for the season and strapping into a car seat! We prefer zip ups which you can find HERE!
This one is pretty straight forward. Double check your purse/wallet/bag to make sure you have all the paperwork that you may need like insurance cards and your ID. Also, your written birth plan! Curious as to the importance of having a written Birth Plan, check out a past blog post we published where we covered all the things relating to Birth Plans. We can also purchase our Digital Birth Plan Download or Schedule a Birth Plan Assistance Package where we will guide you through questions you may have about your birth wishes, concerns, or fears. We will provide you with worksheets and cover what labor may look like, medications & interventions that could be offered, and a list of choices and planning options you can discuss and decide prior to labor starting. You will walk away with a Birth Plan document to bring along to your birth.
This may seem like an obvious one, but in the rush to get to the hospital/birthing center, you don’t want to forget it! Be sure to read the instructions for your specific Car Seat carefully and install it into your vehicle PRIOR to your due date. We recommend about 1 month early to be safe and assured that it is properly set for a newborn.
There you have it!
I hope this Minimalist Hospital Bag Checklist helps you when packing and only wanting the necessities! If you want to get right down to business, you can just head over to our Amazon Storefront and shop now!
Sending you all the positive birthing vibes!
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