This is especially true if it is necessary to perform a cesarean section. It is not possible to predict how the labor will go and a hospital stay may become unexpectedly necessary in case of complications. It is advisable for every pregnant woman to pack a hospital bag – even if she is planning a home birth or an outpatient birth (where you leave the hospital again shortly after the birth). Important: do not forget to tell your partner or birthing companion where the bag is.Ī pregnant woman should always carry a form of ID and medical documents containing the most important information about her and the pregnancy (e.g., antenatal care record or similar). Babies sometimes make an appearance unexpectedly early – it is therefore advisable to be prepared for such an (emergency) case.
#Baby checklist hospital bag pdf
Other essentials: Glasses/contacts/toiletries/etc.įor a handy printable version of this checklist, download the PDF here.Preferably 6 weeks before the birth. Picture ID, insurance information, and hospital forms: The hospital will ask for these.Ĭash and change: Bring lots for the vending machines.Īn extra bag: To carry gifts and items from the hospital to home.Ĭlothing: A change of outfit suitable to the weather. Snacks and drinks: The hospital only provides food after baby is born and only for the person who delivered, so be sure to bring some things for birth partners and for others to nibble on as they wait for baby’s arrival.Ī journal or pen and paper: For keeping track of contractions, feeding sessions, or taking notes. Hazardous items: Avoid safety risks for everyone – especially baby – by keeping toys and other objects with small or potentially dangerous parts away.įor birth partners, parents and surrogates
Gifts for older siblings: Give big brothers and sisters a present “from baby”.Īnything valuable: Jewelry needs to be taken off during delivery and nice clothing can become damaged or get lost, so might as well leave it all at home. Photos: Bring photos of your other kids so they can see they’re on your mind, too. Wi-Fi hotspot: Hospital Wi-Fi can be spotty a personal hotspot can provide a backup.īooks/playing cards/puzzles: Pack a few things to help keep your other children occupied.
Laptop/tablet/e-reader: Download some shows or books to help pass the time during a long labour and waiting for baby’s arrival. Music and headphones: Create a few relaxing playlists before the big day. If anyone plans to use a video camera or camera, bring that too.
#Baby checklist hospital bag how to
Going-home outfit: A footed onesie, hat and any other items suited to the weather.īaby care items: Diapers, wipes, rash cream, socks, scratch mitts, and a hat.īaby blankets and burp cloths: Some for swaddling, some for feeding.Ĭar seat: Make sure it’s properly installed ahead of time and know how to fasten it correctly.īaby book: Capture baby’s first moments by putting their footprints in their baby book.ĭevices: Make sure everyone has their phones and chargers when heading to the hospital. Soft pillows: The hospital provides pillows, but they may not be very comfortable.Ĭomfortable clothing and a going-home outfit: 3 loose-fitting outfits, a few pairs of socks, underwear and comfortable bras are a must. Robe or nightgown: Hospitals provide gowns, but there’s nothing like one from home. Sleepwear: A sweatshirt/sweater, two pairs of pajamas.
Pads and extra maternity underwear: Heavy-duty sanitary pads and several pairs of cotton briefs that are ok to be thrown away.Įyewear: Glasses, lens cleaner, extra contact lenses, solution and case. Hair care: Shampoo, conditioner, dry shampoo, and a hairbrush.įlip-flops: A must for the hospital shower. Towels: Two towels and washcloths (plus some extras for the birth partner). Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, bodywash, facial cleanser, moisturizer, and toilet paper. Here’s what to bring to the hospital: Feeding essentialsįor breastfeeding baby: Breast pads, lanolin/nipple cream, and a nursing pillow.įor bottle feeding baby: Bottles, formula, a bottle brush, and a nursing pillow. Getting everything ready well in advance (and when things are calm) is a great idea. Due dates are nice in theory, but sometimes a baby decides when it’s time to make their appearance. Unless a home delivery is planned, a few days will be spent at the hospital waiting for baby’s arrival.
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