What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Labor

For you

• Your post-natal notes and your birth plan
• Coins for the vending machines (most maternity units provide a parking permit for labor)
• Phone chargers and batteries for your camera
• Slippers or thick socks and a dressing gown
• Two or three knee-length cotton nighties or long t-shirts for labor and after – not white and preferably front-opening for breastfeeding
• Old undies or disposable knickers and maternity pads (two or three packs), plus a couple of feeding bras
• Basic toiletries kit – toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, hair bands, face wipes, lip salve, moisturizer, make up, tissues
• Patterned towel and patterned pillow and pillowcase (patterned laundry won’t get put in the hospital laundry)
• Breast pads
• Ear plugs – post-natal wards can be noisy and ear plugs will help you sleep when someone else is able to watch your baby
• Glasses, contact lenses, contact lens solution
• Baby feeding diary / notepad and pen
• A stash of snacks, energy drinks and a small amount of money
• Some clothes to go home in – you probably won’t need any more
• Optional extras – such as an iPod and speakers (check this is OK with the unit), massage lotion, items to help pass the time like a magazine or book.

And for your baby

• A pack of diapers plus some cotton wool or baby wipes
• Vests and baby grows (six of each), socks and scratch mitts, two thin cotton hats
• Colored muslins (so you don’t lose them)
• Blankets and a warm outfit for going home (including a hat) – hospitals have swaddling sheets, cellular blankets and baby nighties.

Please be aware that the information given in these articles is only intended as general advice and should in no way be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you or your family or your child is suffering from symptoms or conditions which are severe or persistent or you need specific medical advice, please seek professional medical assistance. Philips AVENT cannot be held responsible for any damages that result from the use of the information provided on this website.