Use this helpful list to guide you as you pack your
hospital bag:
For
mom
Nightgown or shirt to wear during labor if you don't
feel comfortable in a gown provided by the hospital
(they should be loose fitting or something that
can be completely opened in the front)
Robe or bed jacket
Socks
Slippers
Nightgown and/or pajamas (if breastfeeding, then
bring ones made for nursing)
2 - 4 bras (nursing bras if you plan to breastfeed)
3 - 6 pairs of underpants
Toiletries (toothbrush/toothpaste, soap, shampoo/conditioner,
deodorant, lotion, comb/brush, lip balm/chap stick)
Elastic/Scrunchie or hair clip to pull hair back
during labor
A photo or object to be used as a focal point during
labor
Going home outfit (something comfortable/loose fitting)
Optional
Lollipops or hard candy to keep your mouth moist
during labor
An activity (such as pre-addressing birth announcements
or crossword puzzles) or a book to keep busy during
early labor
Your baby book - you can record your delivery details
and first moments with your baby and the nurses
can put your baby's hand and foot prints on the
appropriate page while they are inked for the hospital
records
Cord Blood Collection kit (if you decided to collect
your baby's cord blood)
Makeup, lipstick, scented shower gel or body powder
to make you feel better after labor
Eyeglasses or contact lenses (keep in mind that
you can wear your eyeglasses during labor, but you
must take out your contacts)
Watch
Address book
A few small gifts or one for all of the nurses that
helped care for you
A small gift for the other children at home from
the baby
For partner
Insurance information
Hospital preregistration information
Change of clothes and toiletries, if they're allowed
to stay in the room
Optional
Things to be used during labor: soothing music,
something to be used as a focal point, tennis ball,
rolling pin or lotion for massage, watch, paper/pen,
snacks
Book or magazine for reading
List of people and phone numbers to call
Camera/film (make sure it's preloaded and in good
working condition before you go)
Camcorder and/or cassette recorder with tapes
