Packing Your Hospital Bag: A Checklist for Expectant Moms

Some hospitals provide soap, shampoo and body lotion, but be prepared with your travel-sized favourites. Other essentials that will make your stay more comfy include face wash, moisturiser and a face cloth. Don’t forget to pack a toothbrush and a tube of toothpaste. Hair ties or an Alice band will help keep your tresses out of the way during those first feeds. Remember lip balm for the dry, chapped lips that accompany birth.

Maternity pads for postpartum bleeding, and for your tender post-birth belly, mesh underwear is soft and comfortable. Invest in waterproof linen savers, too—they protect bedding and sheets and can double as a makeshift changing mat for baby.

Try this Hospital Readiness Pack.

 

A soft drop-cup nursing bra for hassle-free feeding, and breast pads for expected leakage. If it’s a part of your plan, pack in your breast pump—pumping is an excellent tool to help establish your milk supply.

Button-down pyjamas are perfect for quick and easy feeding. A gown for extra coverage, socks for warmth and a pair of slippers to walk around in. Pack in loose-fit clothes and flip-flops for the shower and to wear home.

Your phone, charger and an adapter in case the hospital’s wall plug doesn’t support your fittings.

Your I.D. and if applicable, your medical aid information. If you have a birth plan, make extra copies of it to give to your gynae and the nurses on duty.

A hair brush, spectacles if you wear them, contact lens solution and snacks. Lots and lots of snacks! A book, magazine or tablet loaded with your favourite series to keep you occupied in the early stages of labour. A couple of burp cloths. And photo props or milestone cards for the perfect baby announcement pic.

SHOP MUM-TO-BE

Disposable nappies, wet wipes, bum cream or barrier lotion. A changing mat. Surgical spirits to care for their umbilical cord. And for their first bath, mild baby soap, shampoo and lotion.

Browse our baby bath time and skincare range.

A basic outfit for a newborn is a vest, a sleepsuit, socks, mittens and a beanie—ensure you pack enough of these for the duration of your stay. Baby’s going home outfit is likely top of mind. Consider the weather, and make sure you bring a spare in case it gets dirty.

A couple of receiving blankets to swaddle your new arrival. If it’s chilly, pack in a thicker fleece blanket to keep your little one warm and toasty.

We’ve got a variety of swaddles and blankets to choose from.

You won’t be able to leave the hospital without a car seat. Install it in the car a few weeks in advance and practice putting it in and taking it out—you don’t want to experience difficulties when baby’s finally on board.

SHOP BABY