Hospital Bag Checklist

Moms Bag

• Health insurance card and pre-registration forms from the hospital
• Birth Plan, notepad and pen to write down any questions so you don’t forget.
• Nursing bra(s) – This supports swollen, tender breasts, and helps keep breast pads in place. Get fitted at around 36 weeks to get a more accurate size.
• Sports bra – Many women find these extremely useful during labour when using water as a comfort measure; they are also good for suppressing lactation if for any reason you are not planning on breastfeeding.
• Breast pads – You will need these as they stop leaks by absorbing milk. You can purchase either washable or disposable pads.
• Baby Banda Maternity Briefs – These are disposable maternity panties since you do not have time to wash the stained panties, these are ideal for this period.
• Maternity Sanitary pads – The hospital can provide you with these. Find out beforehand if your hospital will provide.
• Baby Banda Nursing pillows – These can be used when you are breastfeeding. The pillow reduces the strain on your arms, neck, and back when feeding your baby. Find out if the hospital you are delivering in offers one. If not, you can pack your own.
• Slippers – During labour it is always recommended to walk around. These will also come in handy as you make trips around the ward.
• Socks – Many women complain of their feet being cold during the delivery, so have a couple of pairs in case one pair becomes soiled.
• Nightgown and robe – Make sure they open in the front if you are planning on breastfeeding. Find out if your hospital will provide this.
• Jumper/pullover or gown, for the times you feel extra cold or just feel the need to layer up
• Going home outfit – Choose one that fit when you were around 6 months pregnant.
• Toiletries – To be more comfortable, take a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, petroleum jelly or lip balm, makeup, hairbrush, shampoo, soap, lotion, etc.
• Hair clip or band if you have long hair or braids – Women with long hair like to have it pulled out of their faces during labour and delivery.
• Extra washcloths – These also need to be coloured to distinguish them from the hospital’s washcloths.
• Magazines or a book – Sometimes you might get a bit of insomnia and it would be good to have something to read
• Snacks e.g Chocolate bars, energy bars, juice enough for you and your birth partner
• Camera and/or Video Recorder if you want to document the process of birth.
• Massage oils – Many labour classes discuss the use of massage oils during class because they can help alleviate back labour.
• iPod/CD player- Soothing music may help you and your partner relax both during and after labour.
• Mints or breath strips – Many women experience nausea/vomiting during labour and delivery; these will help freshen your mouth or the mouths of your support people. Lollipops or other hard candies can also alleviate dry mouth.
• Large envelope/file folder – This may be used to store any loose paperwork.
  Essentials for birth Partner
  If you are having your partner it is important to remember them as well
  • Change of clothes
  • Pyjamas
  • Toiletries
• A gift from big brother/sister to the baby – This can be something that was picked out before delivery by the older sibling.
• A gift from Mom and baby to the big brother/sister – Many times older siblings tend to get jealous around the birth of the baby. A special gift can help alleviate this problem by allowing the big brother/sister to know that they are still important

Baby Bag

• Going home outfit ( Rompers, growers, vest)
• Hat – Babies lose the vast majority of their body heat through their heads.
• Booties/socks
• Receiving blankets – Newborns love to be swaddled, and these blankets are perfect for swaddling.
• Newborn diapers – They fit snugly to prevent spills
• Wipes- Begin with the wipes that are designed for newborns or sensitive skin.
• Mittens – Many newborns will have longer nails, so they can easily scratch their face and other parts of their bodies.
• Baby Banda Multipurpose Mat
• Bibs
• Cotton wool