There’s just something about being prepared that eases my mind, which is why I created a hospital bag checklist that includes mommy, daddy, and baby. Packing your hospital bag is one of the many ways to prepare for the arrival of your new baby. As a first time mommy, I really had no idea what items to include in my bag, because this was literally my first rodeo. However, through this experience, I quickly discovered that most of the items that I packed in my bag were unnecessary, which is why I created a Hospital Bag Checklist from a minimalistic approach.
This hospital bag checklist is thorough, but without the fluff. What we fail to realize is that the hospital stay is at most 1-2 days given there are no complications. Therefore, there’s no need to pack as if we are there for an extended stay.
What does the hospital provide?
Before and after the fact, this is probably the most sought out question. Based upon my experience, here’s a list of items that were provided by the Labor & Delivery department at the hospital where I gave birth.
- Postpartum Care (mesh underwear, postpartum pads, ice pads, peri wash bottle)
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Blanket
- Kimono Onesies
- Hat
- Pacifiers
- Suction Bulb
- Baby Brush/Comb
- Gauze & Vaseline * (for baby boy circumcision procedure)
- Services (Lactation Consultant)
My tip on the items provided by the hospital- stock up! The nurses were very generous with items, which is why I still have I have a surplus of unused items now. Along with the list of items that are provided by the hospital, here is a list of a few items that are commonly found on hospital bag checklists, but I found not necessary and listed them as optional.
- Nursing pads- In my opinion, they aren’t necessary because milk supply is not established. However, these are the nursing pads that I recommend. (bamboobies)
- Nursing pillow- Lactation Consultant showed me how to use the pillows provided by the hospital to place the baby in a comfortable position for nursing. Once I returned home, I used my Brestfriend Nursing Pillow.
- Postpartum Care- I packed a package of Depends in my hospital bag. However, I did not use them until I returned home. If you prefer to purchase your own postpartum care items, I’ve seen some great reviews about the Frida Mom Postpartum Recovery Essentials Kit and The Honey Pot “Post-Partum Herbal Pads”.
Hospital Bag Checklist
Below you will find the hospital bag checklist that I have created. To print, click the image and it will open a new tab. I hope you find this checklist helpful either for yourself or someone that you know that will be welcoming a new bundle of joy.
As an added bonus, here are some of my favorite products that were really helpful in the newborn stage.
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