When expecting a baby, a million things go through your mind. From your labor plan to how in the world you're going to push a baby out, things get overwhelming quickly. One thing that I put off for way too long last time, and ending up throwing together last minute, was my hospital bag.
It didn't really dawn on me that I was going to be away from home for several days and need things for not only me, but my baby as well. I was so focused on getting Henry here safely and meeting him, I didn't think about the things I would want or need. While the hospital does provide many of the items that you'll need (and don't forget to take what you can when you leave!), I found myself wanting some of my comforts from home.
Hopefully the following lists help you to feel a little more prepared for not only your hospital stay, but having your baby and bringing that sweet little bundle home as well.
1. A large bag to carry everything. This time, I don't want to have to deal with a clunky suitcase, especially since hospital rooms can get crowded, quickly. I have an old tote from Victoria's Secret that will hold everything and be easier to stick in the corner when I don't need it.
2. Sleep Mask. I'm a very light sleeper, and sleep is tough enough to come by when in the hospital. It never seems to get completely dark, so this time I'm hoping a sleep mask will help me to tune things out and actually get some rest. This one came from H&M, but you can find some adorable ones on Etsy!
3.
Going Home Outfit. I didn't put much thought into this last time and ended up just throwing some old sweats and a cover-up into the bag. Well, the clothes didn't fit great, nor did they look too beautiful in our pictures when leaving the hospital. While I really wasn't that concerned with how I looked (I was just more excited to get little man home), I would like something that actually fit and was comfy this time around! I decided to go with my beloved yoga pants, tank top, and big comfy sweater. You can find a similar sweater at
Old Navy.
4. Nursing Bra. If you plan on breastfeeding, you will definitely want a nursing bra, or a bra that hooks in the front. Nursing can be a very stressful part of those first few days, and having to lift up your shirt and bra will inevitably just get in the way. Both of these bras are from Target, which is where I've gotten every nursing bra that I own. I would highly recommend avoiding underwire, as it's just uncomfortable and annoying when trying to rest (in my opinion, at least!).
5. Button-up nightgown or pajamas. This goes along with the nursing bra. Having button-up pajamas or a nightgown will really help you be able to nurse as comfortably and conveniently as possible. I've opted to go with a nightgown, as not wearing pants is preferable to me!
6. High-waisted briefs... AKA granny panties. Since I know I'll need a C-section, high-waisted briefs are a must. Even if you'll deliver the old fashioned way, you'll be so glad you brought some comfy undies. Between the pads you'll need and just being uncomfortable, anything lacy or too tight will just be obnoxious.
7.
Long Robe. When walking around during contractions, getting up to use the restroom, or having visitors over to see your new little one, a robe is definitely a must-have for me. It helps cover-up anything you don't want seen in those opened-back hospital gowns, and helps you to feel a little more comfortable. Hospitals can get freezing as well, so the extra layer doesn't hurt. I'm kind of obsessed with this
plush robe from Lord and Taylor.
8.
Slippers. I can't express enough how important or how much I loved my slippers during my stay at the hospital. Before I had Henry, I was up walking a bunch to try and get labor going. Once I had him, I was walking around to stretch a bit or use the bathroom. After I have my C-section this time, I'll need to be up walking right away. Slippers are so great to have because they're not only comfy, they are a great alternative to regular shoes and shield you from the always-freezing hospital floors. I found these Kate Spade beauties at TJ awhile ago, but you can find some similar ones
here.
1
. Body Wash. The hospital will most likely provide you with a small bottle but for me, I'd much rather have my own.
2.
Dry Shampoo. LIFESAVER. The first couple of days, I admittedly did not shower. I was so exhausted from labor and all of the company that I didn't get out of bed much more than I needed to. While I plan on showering this time around, I most likely won't wash my hair (it's so thick & curly, nobodys got time to deal with that). Dry shampoo is a must-have so that I'm not completely gross and greasy lookin.
3.
Hand mirror. I didn't intentionally pack this last time, but was so grateful when I realized I had it in my purse. While it was great having visitors, I wanted to try and be semi-presentable when they arrived. It was nice to be able to throw on some mascara while still in the hospital bed using my hand mirror.
4.
Large makeup bag. I can definitely get a little OCD with packing, so grabbing a larger makeup bag that could fit not only my essential makeup products but all of my cosmetics together was really helpful. Not being at home meant carrying a bag back and forth to the bathroom and it was nice to have everything together.
5.
Charger. Even though I got induced with Henry and didn't have the "holy crap, my water broke, let's rush to the hospital" moment, I still forgot things. One of those things was my charger, which I had to ask my parents to grab on the way to the hospital. This time, I plan on having my extra charger already packed and ready to go.
6.
Ipad/Book/Something to do. One thing I didn't expect was how much down time I had. We showed up at the hospital to get induced at 6 AM, and I didn't have him until 11 AM the next day. Between getting up to walk or visiting with family/friends, I still had a lot of down time just waitin for the action to begin. My Ipad and my absolute favorite book- Pride and Prejudice- will help to pass the time.
7.
Snacks. Once in active labor I wasn't allowed to eat anymore, but before I got induced, I realized I was starving and had no quarters for the vending machine. I would definitely recommend bringing something to munch on (my husband was starving too) or some quarters to grab some snacks.
8.
Chap stick. Nothing wears you out like labor, and right after, I immediately realized how dehydrated and therefore, chapped, my lips felt. Thank goodness I have amazing friends who just gave me theirs but this time, I plan to be fully prepared.
9.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste. Since some of these items, such as your toothbrush and toothpaste, are things that you need on a daily basis and don't necessarily want to pack away, I bought some travel-sized items I could pack ahead of time. Walmart and Target both have sections with toothbrushes, toothpaste, body wash, etc. in miniature bottles that work perfectly for a few day hospital stay.
10.
A Razor. I forgot to bring one last time and I could not wait to get home and shave my underarms. I just felt gross after laying in bed all day, and this time I know I will appreciate having all my own toiletries and being able to feel human again.
11.
Mascara. Right after having Henry, I couldn't have cared less what I looked like. I was so amazed by how little he was, and how good he smelled, and everything else that when I finally looked in the mirror, I was appalled. While I doubt I'll be putting on a full face of makeup, I will definitely be glad to have my mascara and look a little like myself when visitors come.
1.
Beanies/Hats. Little ones get cold so easily, that you'll want to make sure you've got a hat, especially to bring them home in. Your hospital will probably provide them for you, but they won't be near as cute as these little floral ones from
Carters.
2.
A Coat. If you're having a winter baby like I am, a coat would definitely be a good idea. Your little one has been so warm and cozy up until now, that you'll want to protect them as best as you can from the cold weather. I probably worry too much, but I figure you can never have enough fuzzy clothing :)
3.
Socks. In line with the coat, socks will just keep your little one's feet warm. There is nothing cuter to me than little baby toes, and while I hate covering them up, cute socks are a good alternative!
4.
Newborn Car Seat. This one is a must-have, as the hospital won't let you leave without it. We are just re-using Henry's seat for little girl, since he's outgrown it. Naturally, I have to have a cute carseat cover to make it girly! Etsy has some great options, or if you sew, you can find patterns on Pinterest also.
5.
Warm Blanket. This will be great when taking baby home. If it's too chilly or windy, a warm blanket is great to drape over the carseat to protect them from not only the cold, but the bright sun as well.
6.
Going Home Outfit. I cannot resist a cute pun on a onesie, or some sparkle for that matter. I absolutely fell in love when I saw this onesie from
Viva La Glitter and decided it would make the perfect going home outfit for Charlotte. I'm going to pair it with some cute leggings, socks, and a hat and she will be good to go!
// Miscellaneous Items //
There are several other things I thought I would mention, that either aren't necessarily beautiful or are just the basics that you may forget. These include:
-Deodorant
-Tucks Pads. You will probably receive some of these from the hospital, but it's always nice to have your own on hand. You will also have them ready for when you get home and trust me, they are awesome.
-Regular Pads. The hospital pads I was provided with were giant. I mean, bigger than Henry's diapers, giant. While you do need pads, I just bought some regular heavy pads from the store which were so much more comfortable.
-Your important information, such as your driver's license, insurance info, etc.
-Your own pillows, and maybe a blanket.
-Nipple Cream. Getting Henry to latch was very difficult, and while they did supply me with some nipple cream, it didn't work as well as the Lansinoh cream I bought myself.
And that's all I've got for now! If anyone has any other suggestions or things I may have missed, please feel free to mention!
