If you’re anything like me & have no idea where to start when it comes to packing, then this blog is for you!
Whether you plan to stay in hospital for a few hours after birth or for 5 days, this list is designed for everyone - just add in a few extra of everything if you’re staying longer. And remember, sometimes things don’t go to plan, so packing a little extra never hurts.
For ease of organising I’ve categorised each section & attached it in downloadable form so you can check it off as you go.
As a midwife & also a wayyyy too organised person I would recommend having your bags packed & ready to go or stored in the boot of your car by 36 weeks. You just never know when you might need them. I’d also recommend having your car seat professionally installed by 36 weeks too!
Ok, so let’s start with the most important person...
Mumma:- Wallet/purse & phone
- Your hand held hospital record
- Your birth plan (if you have one)
- Any medications
- Pen & notebook to write down feeds & wet/dirty nappies
- Phone charger
- Labour outfit (this is ANY thing that you are comfortable in, from your birthday suit to a hospital gown, what ever you like)
- Comfortable clothing
- Thongs & slippers
- PJs
- Dressing gown (great for covering up quickly)
- Breastfeeding bra/crop
- Nanna undies & plenty of them (the uglier, the better! Think high waisted & dark coloured, not white - trust me!)
- Maternity pads
- Breast pads (if you will be in hospital long enough for your milk to come in)
- Nipple gel discs ie. multi mum, rite aid hydrogel breast discs
- Nipple balm ie. Lansinoh, Gaia (perfect for cracked nipples)
- Wet wipes (soooo much better for wiping a sensitive area)
- Toiletries
- Lip balm
- Massage oil & diffuser (if using)
- TENs machine (cannot recommend enough)
- Your pillow
- Your expressed colostrum (transport in small esky & give to staff straight away)
- Labour snacks ie electrolyte drinks, lollies, small snacks
- Music player or headphones
- Breast pump (if the hospital doesn’t supply one)
Baby:
- nappies +++
- Wet wipes
- Wraps x 4 (cotton is best as it’s breathable)
- Blankets x 2
- Beanie
- Singlets (think 2/day)
- Onesie (think 2/day) Hint: zips are much easier
- Going home outfit (cute for pics)
Your partner:
- A change of clothing (they might get wet in the shower/bath while you’re labouring)
- Pillow (if partners are allowed to stay)
- Appropriate sleep wear (you would be surprised as midwives what we see)
- Toiletries
Staff:
- A few boxes of chocolates & cards to say thank you to your care givers.
Siblings:
- A small gift from the baby (usually helps with transition & acceptance of the new baby)
Pets:
- If you’re able, it’s a good idea to take a used item of clothing/wrap home first to show to your pets & get them used to the smell of the new baby
*Note: I haven’t mentioned our Ice Ice Booby breast & perineal packs specifically as some hospitals don’t provide personal in-room fridge/freezers & also don’t allow the use of heat packs in microwaves. Most hospitals provide small, disposable ice packs so use those & save your Ice Ice Booby packs for home use. That way you know exactly where they have been stored. However, have them ready to go (in the freezer) for once you are home.
I hope this blog has been helpful & has added a few useful tips to think about.
Much love & best wishes,
- XOXO Jenna
(Ice Ice Booby co-founder & midwife)
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