A couple days ago, I came across the original packing list I made for the hospital when Baby J was born. I thought it might help someone to share, so that’s what I’m doing! I did end up changing some things last minute, so I’ve added that info next to specific items in the list. When it comes down to it though, something that may be a necessity for me will not be for another woman, and vice versa.
For me
- Two bed pillows with favorite cases *Ended up packing one king-size pillow with a plush case. Would take it again.
- Lotion or massage oil *Took lotion
- Warm socks *The hospital had socks that I ended up wearing. They’re going to get nasty, so if you bring your own, bring several pairs.
- Toothpaste, toothbrush, and mouthwash
- Lollipops for dry mouth *Didn’t pack them. They gave me ice chips at the hospital, which worked fine.
- Chapstick or lip gloss
- Paper fan *Didn’t pack. Not sure it would’ve helped anyway.
- Wooden back massager *Never used it.
- Nightgown(s) that opens in the front for nursing *Very helpful!
- Robe and slippers *Hospital provided a robe, but my slippers came in handy.
- Nursing cover *Not needed
- Panties and nursing bras *I wore the hospital mesh panties the first day, then switched to my own large granny panties.
- Comfortable maternity clothes and shoes to wear home *I wore the same pants, top, and shoes that I wore to the hospital.
- Jacket or hoodie
- Toiletries and cosmetics
- dry shampoo *To touch up my roots before taking post-labor photos!
- pads *The hospital ones aren’t that great. Buy some giant overnight, super absorbent maxi pads
For Hubby
- Snacks for labor *You probably won’t want him leaving your side and heading to the food court, so bring food!
- Phone numbers and change or a phone card or cell phone
- Change of clothing
- Toiletries
- Air mattress *Hubby didn’t need it. They had a pull out couch/chair in the delivery room.
For All of Us
- iPod with speakers and charger *Never used it.
- Cameras for birth / baby photos
- Cell phone chargers
- Boppy *I ended up leaving the Boppy in the car and using a regular pillow to nurse. After going home and nursing with a Boppy, I regretted my original decision. A nursing pillow is very helpful and makes things easier!
- batteries or chargers for cameras
For Baby
- Going home clothes (2 sets), including a hat, and blanket, and mittens or socks for his hands *Next time I’ll bring some sleep sacks and onesies. I never could figure out how to swaddle Baby J in the hospital blankets.
- Car seat already installed in the back seat of the car
- Newborn diapers *Next time, we’re bringing cloth diapers! Also, the hospital provided us with plenty of disposable diapers while we were there and sent some home with us. However, they were Size 1, and Baby J fit newborn for several weeks.
Additionally, we packed pens and a notepad for filling out paperwork and taking notes. Don’t forget your wallet and IDs!