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What to Pack for the Hospital When Expecting a New Baby
Preparing for the arrival of a new baby is an exciting yet often overwhelming time. One essential task is packing your hospital bag. Having everything ready can ease stress and ensure you have a comfortable and smooth experience. Here's a comprehensive list of what to pack for the hospital when expecting a new baby.
Essentials for Mom
1. Important Documents
- ID and Insurance Information: Ensure you have your ID, insurance card, and any necessary paperwork.
- Birth Plan: If you have a birth plan, bring multiple copies for your medical team.
2. Comfort Items
- Robe and Nightgown: A comfortable robe and a couple of nightgowns that are easy to nurse in.
- Slippers and Socks: Warm, non-slip socks and slippers for walking around.
- Pillow: Your own pillow can make a hospital room feel a bit more like home.
- Toiletries: Pack travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush, and any other personal hygiene items you use daily.
-Lip Balm and Lotion: Hospitals can be dry, so bring moisturizers to stay comfortable.
3. Clothing
- Comfortable Maternity Clothes: Loose-fitting clothes for your stay and a going-home outfit that is comfortable and easy to put on.
- Nursing Bras and Pads: If you plan to breastfeed, bring nursing bras and breast pads.
- Underwear: Several pairs of comfortable, high-waisted underwear.
4. Technology and Entertainment
- Phone and Charger: Stay in touch with loved ones and capture those first precious moments.
- Headphones: For listening to music or watching videos without disturbing others.
- Books or Magazines: Something to read during downtime.
Essentials for Baby
1. Clothing
- Onesies: Pack a few onesies in different sizes (newborn and 0-3 months) to ensure a good fit.
- Going-Home Outfit: A special outfit for baby’s first trip home.
- Socks and Hats: To keep the baby warm.
2. Diapers and Wipes
- Newborn Diapers: The hospital will provide some, but it’s good to have a few extras.
- Baby Wipes: Gentle, fragrance-free wipes for those first changes.
3. Blankets and Swaddles
- Receiving Blankets: To wrap your baby in and keep them cozy.
- Swaddles: For easier swaddling and a secure sleep.
4. Baby Keepsakes
-Wooden name plates to place in or around their bassinet
-Baby books for footprints: hospital staff will more than likely be happy to put prints in your baby book.
5. Miscellaneous Things You Might Wish You Had
-Baby nail file: sometimes babies are born with really long and sometimes sharp nails and these files work way better than biting them off with your teeth or risk cutting their fingertips with nail cutters. I’ve seen them both a little more often than I want to.
-White noise maker
-Burp cloths
6. Car Seat
- Installed and Ready: Make sure your car seat is properly installed in your car before heading to the hospital. Hospital staff will want to ensure the baby is safe for the ride home. Also make sure that you know how your carseat works. Practice with a stuffed animal. Learn how to tighten and loosen the straps.
Essentials for Partner/Support Person
1. Comfort Items
- Comfortable Clothing: Pack enough for a couple of days.
- Snacks and Drinks: Hospital food may not always be available, so having snacks and drinks on hand can be helpful.
2. Technology
- Phone and Charger: To stay connected and capture memories.
- Camera: If you prefer using a camera over a phone for pictures.
3. Entertainment
- Books or Magazines: Something to pass the time during long waits.
- Cards
4. Personal Care Items
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any other personal care items.
Final Thoughts
Packing for the hospital doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By preparing in advance and keeping your bag simple yet comprehensive, you can focus more on the excitement of welcoming your new baby. Tailor this list to fit your personal needs and preferences, and you’ll be ready for this beautiful journey ahead. Happy packing and congratulations on your upcoming arrival!