What’s in My Baby Hospital Bag?
After your first baby you learn what to pack and NOT to pack for your hospital bag. You never need as much as you think you will need. Of course, this can vary, depending if your having single or multiples, vaginal or c-section delivery! What’s in my baby hospital bag?
What does the hospital provide?
The hospital provides more than you think. However there are things I rather pack instead of using the hospital brand stuff.
They provide:
- Socks
- Hospital gown
- Nipple cream (if nursing)
- Icy pads
- Mesh underwear
- Softening stool and other medications you may need for pain
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Soap
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Swaddle and hat for baby
- The last hospital gave me a Halo sleep sack! Which I love for babies!
What to pack for Mom
- Postpartum necessities. See my list HERE.
- Robe
- Slippers or fuzzy socks (not necessary, since the hospital provides socks)
- Nursing bra
- Pajamas – a gown will be most comfortable
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- My glasses, of course. No need for contacts since I am usually on and off sleeping
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Lotion
- Comb and/or brush
- Phone and charger!
No need for books, magazines or other fun stuff. You will be tired. When not with baby, eating or having visitors you will be sleeping. Try to get as much rest as possible!
For Baby
For baby, you will need even less!
- Take home outfit
- Blanket- light or heavy, depending on season
- Onesie for in hospital.
Diapers are not necessary, since the hospital supplies all of them and you get to take extra home! I like having a onesie instead of using what the hospital provides. Maybe cause my last baby was so tiny he was floating in his hospital onesie!
Important
The hospital always says to bring your license with you but to be honest I’ve never been asked! My last baby was delivered at a hospital near me vs the hospital I was registered at. A receptionist will come in and register you. So you should be all set.
But don’t forget the packet the doctor gives you. When your in the hospital you will fill out the information with your name, etc. along with your partner’s. This is also the time to correctly spell your baby’s name for the birth certificate and sign up to get your baby’s birth certificate and social security.
One other thing
Make sure to have a car seat and base installed. The hospital will not let you go home without a properly installed car seat!
You don’t need as much as you think! The extras are just for comfort, really. If you don’t have the necessities ready, the hospital will have everything you need! Seriously!
What’s in your hospital bag?
