Hospital Bag Checklist – What to Pack for You and Your Baby

Hospital Bag Checklist: Congrats on your upcoming bundle of joy! Welcoming a little one into the world is an indescribable joy. To make sure you’re fully prepared, it’s essential to pack your hospital bag at least three weeks before your due date. To make things even more exciting, we’ve created a comprehensive hospital bag checklist that covers everything you, your baby, and your birth partner will need. From comfy clothes to soothing remedies, this checklist has got you covered. So take a deep breath, relax, and let’s start packing!

Checklist: What to Pack for Your Hospital Bag

Hospital Bag Checklist for UK Moms-to-Be

Documents and Clothing

• Birth plan and hospital notes: It’s important to have these documents handy for healthcare professionals.
• Loose, comfortable clothing to wear during labour: Choose clothes that allow for movement and provide comfort during this crucial time.
• Dressing gown and slippers or flip-flops: These can come in handy for walking around or going to the shower.
• Nightwear: Opt for front-opening or loose-fitting nightwear if you plan to breastfeed.
• Three changes of comfortable clothes: It’s always a good idea to have spare clothes in case of any unexpected situations.
• Socks: Keep your feet warm and cosy during your hospital stay.
• Knickers: Extra comfortable and roomy 100% cotton knickers are key, especially during this special time. Opt for 5 or 6 pairs of regular or disposable knickers.
• Breathable maternity pads: Breathable pads made from organic cotton offer a natural and gentle option for postpartum care. Not only do they provide comfort, but they also allow your skin to breathe, reducing the risk of irritation.
• Comfortable bras: Pack 2 or 3 comfortable bras, including nursing bras, if you’re planning on breastfeeding.
• Breast pads: These are essential for managing any leakage that may occur.

Toiletries and Comfort

• Wash bag: Include essential toiletries such as toothpaste, a toothbrush, a hairbrush, natural soap, lip balm, natural deodorant (check out our DIY option!), hair bands, hand sanitiser, body lotion, and anything else you may need.
• Eye mask: Use an eye mask to help you sleep better in the brightly lit ward.
• Towels: Bring your own towels for added comfort.
• Pillows: Having your own pillows can make your stay more comfortable.
• Medications: If you’re taking any medications, don’t forget to pack them.
• TENS machine: If you plan to use a TENS machine for pain relief, pack it along with spare batteries.
• Entertainment: Bring books, magazines, podcasts, or music playlists to help you relax and pass the time.
• Phone and charger: Stay connected and ensure your phone is fully charged. Consider bringing an extra-long charging cable or a battery pack.
• Spare glasses or contact lenses: If you wear glasses or contact lenses, pack spares in case of any emergencies.
• Spare bag for washing: Bring an extra bag for any laundry that needs to be done.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Nourishment and Natural Remedies

• Healthy snacks, drinks, and a water bottle: Keep yourself energized and hydrated throughout your hospital stay. Consider bringing a water bottle with a straw for convenience so you can easily sip while you rest. For a refreshing source of electrolytes and nutrients to keep you energized, pack some coconut water.
• Rose water, Lavender, and Sweet Orange essential oils: These soothing and aromatic options can help create a calming atmosphere and promote relaxation during your hospital stay. Consider taking Rosewater, which has a calming effect on the senses; lavender essential oil, which is well-known for its relaxing properties; and orange essential oil, which can help uplift the mood.
• Nipple cream: You can either make your own nipple cream using coconut oil and shea butter or use 100% natural lanolin cream. Both options can help soothe and nourish your nipples during breastfeeding.
• Massage oil: Including a massage oil can be a great addition to your hospital bag. Look for a natural and gentle massage oil specifically designed for pregnancy and birth. One option is a massage oil made from sweet almond oil, which is known for its nourishing and moisturizing properties.

What to Pack for Your Baby Hospital Bag

Don’t forget to pack the following items for your baby:

• Bodysuits, vests, and sleepsuits: Have a few of these ready for your baby’s stay at the hospital. Choose 100% cotton clothes for newborns.
• An outfit for going home: Choose a special outfit to take your baby home in.
• Hat and socks: Keep your baby warm.
• Snowsuit: If the weather is cold, consider packing a snowsuit for extra warmth.
• Nappies: Bring enough nappies to last the duration of your hospital stay.
• Cotton wool or wipes: These are essential for keeping your baby clean and fresh.
• Nappy Cream: Don’t forget to include nappy cream with calendula in your baby essentials. Nappy cream with calendula is known for its soothing and healing properties and can help protect your baby’s delicate skin from rashes and irritation. Calendula is a natural ingredient that is gentle on the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Muslin squares: Pack a few of these versatile clothes for various purposes. 
• Car seat for the trip home: Make sure you have a suitable newborn car seat ready to bring your baby home safely.
• Blanket: It’s essential to keep your baby warm and snug with a soft and cosy baby blanket. When choosing a blanket, consider opting for a cellular cotton blanket. By selecting a cellular cotton blanket, you can provide your baby with the perfect combination of comfort and safety. The cellular design allows for better airflow, keeping your little one comfortable and preventing overheating. Additionally, cotton is known for its softness, making it gentle against your baby’s delicate skin. 

Important Note: Choosing Safe and Comfortable Clothes for Your Newborn’s Hospital Stay

When buying clothes for your newborn’s hospital stay, it’s important to choose high-quality materials that prioritize comfort and safety. Opting for 100% cotton fabric can provide a soft and breathable texture that’s gentle against your baby’s delicate skin. Cotton is also hypoallergenic, making it less likely to cause skin irritation or allergies.

A Few Suggestions for Your Birth Partner in Your Hospital Bag

It’s important to also pack some essentials for your birth partner:

• Change of clothes: Include a change of clothes for your birth partner, as they might want to freshen up during your stay.
• Toiletries: Pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant for your birth partner’s personal care.
• Phone and charger: Ensure your birth partner stays connected and has a fully charged phone.
• Camera: Don’t forget to pack a camera or make sure to have your phone camera ready to capture all the precious moments with your baby. From their first moments to their adorable little expressions, a camera will help you document these priceless memories.
• Snacks and drinks: Keep your birth partner energized with some snacks and drinks.
• Swimwear: If your birth partner plans to get into a birth pool, bring swimwear.
• Medications: Pack any medications your birth partner may be taking.
• Spare glasses or contact lenses: If your birth partner wears glasses or contact lenses, pack spares.
• Spare change: Keep some spare change for the car park and vending machines.

To Sum Up,

By following this hospital bag checklist, you’ll ensure that you have everything you need for your journey to the hospital and for your stay. Having these essentials prepared in advance will give you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the upcoming birth of your baby.