Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom and Baby
I had no idea what to bring so I brought fucking everything. Looking back, I didn’t use most of it but some stuff I was very thankful I brought. Here’s my “must have” hospital bag for labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Everything is linked in my Amazon idea list.
This picture has nothing to do with a hospital bag but it is a great reminder to treat yourself after!
Postpartum underwear - You’re going to want loose, comfortable undies - not just at the hospital but forever :) haha. I usually wear a small so I bought both small and medium. I used the mediums for about a month.
Brestfriend - if you plan on breastfeeding, bring your nursing pillow! I highly recommend the brestfriend. I didn’t bring mine and I ended up using hella pillows while learning how to breastfeed. It was fine BUT could’ve avoided so many arm cramps and weird angles if I had brought it, lol.
Pump, pump parts, nursing/pumping bra - The nurses are the best and teach you how to pump properly so bring yours! I didn’t bring mine and had to hold the bottle to my breast the whole time. This is very exhausting after giving birth. I really like the Momcozy one.
Comfortable hospital gown - I got this very comfortable hospital gown that has buttons in the front for nursing and buttons down the back. I changed into it after giving birth and showering, but it would’ve been nice to wear it the entire time.
Toiletries bag - toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, light make up, extra hair ties, etc. If you don’t have a foldable toiletries bag, highly recommend this one. I use it so much and it’s so convenient to take on weekend trips or long vacations.
Eyelash extensions - just do it. If you need recommendations in LA, lmk!
Shower flip flops - if you plan to shower at the hospital, these are a must.
Comfortable robe and slippers - you may need to walk around the hospital floor so it’s nice to bring a comfortable robe to just throw over your hospital gown. I wore my Crocs and it was the best. If you haven’t invested in Crocs yet, it’s time mama!!!
Hydroflask - or any refillable bottle for water
Phone charger - some hospitals don’t have outlets near the bed so my friends recommended I buy a long cord for this reason.
Headphones - I didn’t use mine, but my friends tell me it’s great to play calming music (esp during a C section.)
Witch hazel pads, perineal spray, peri bottle and ice pads - the hospital gave me these and a bunch to take home after, but I hear that some hospitals don’t. They’re AMAZING for comfort and healing. No one warned me about the first time you pee after giving birth. This is your warning. These items will help so much. Frida offers a postpartum kit that I found to be very helpful and I often gift it to my new mom friends.
Going home outfit for you and baby - I brought 3 outfits for baby because I wanted options but we ended up using all 3 because we had to stay at the hospital a couple of days more. For mama, anything comfy and loose.
Infant car seat - set up in car beforehand
The hospital will give you necessities for the baby like newborn diapers, baby wipes, etc. and they usually give you a take-home bag as well so you don’t need to bring any of this.