Packing the hospital bag

EleanorRigbyy · February 2016

So I started packing the hospital bag today, I'm 35 weeks & so excited! But I think I may have over done it since I actually need a second bag due to lack of room in the first, which is packed full! I packed 4 outfits for baby including coming home outfit, hats for baby & socks, some socks for me & dad, comfy pj's for the both of us, toiletries, shoes for baby, nursing bras & granny panties, a swaddle blanket, a comfy blanket & still need to pack outfits for me & dad! Is this too much! Or just right??

wildtot · February 2016

I'm a FTM but iv heard that you only really need one outfit for baby for his way home.

olivemomma · February 2016

Woah I think it's too much! I would bring maybe two outfits for baby, one newborn and one 0-3 months in case baby is big. No socks, hats, or swaddles - the hospital will provide those. And no shoes for baby, newborns don't need them! If you are in an area where you need a blanket for the car have that handy but you can leave it with the car seat and just grab it as you are leaving. If I were you I would plan on being in the hospital gown for labor and birth - it's a messy ordeal. They will also provide you with mesh panties I would recommend for a few days unless you are okay throwing yours away, but I would just plan on using theirs. I think one nursing bra is sufficient, your milk won't be in yet and you will only need it to wear home. I had one sleeping outfit and one outfit to wear home for myself. Toiletries, socks, a pillow, towel, a robe, and all of your chargers for phone, iPad, etc. are the other things worth bringing.

Monicagail1 · February 2016

My personal opinion as a third time mom is to bring 2 outfits max. A newborn size and 0-3 month, for coming home. In the hospital it's best to just keep baby in hospital provided gear. Often they'll be doing tests throughout your stay, and easy access will be appreciated by hospital staff. Also, skin to skin is becoming much more prevalent, so you may want to spend a lot of time with a naked baby anyway

otherwise I've become a fan of simplicity over the years. Take advantage of the hospital mesh panties for the first few days, etc.

yodiggity · February 2016

why do babies need shoes?

AmadorRose · February 2016

yodiggity said:

why do babies need shoes?

They don't. In cold areas they may need them as they get bigger so they don't kick off their socks, but mine probably won't wear shoes until November.

SarahAnne15917 · February 2016

I am in the hospital for the next week and will be delivering on Friday! I asked my doctor (and nurses) and they said don't bother bringing ANYTHING for baby except a go home outfit, a blanket to go home with (we live in NE Ohio) and a car seat! They all said everything else for Bebe will be provided!

spicedice · February 2016

We kept DS in just a diaper and swaddle while we were at the hospital. It wasn't until we knew that were were getting discharged that we put him in any clothing. To make things easy, I'll probably just bring him footie pajamas.

Ready4theParty · February 2016

I agree with PPs, only bring outfits for coming home. We brought our own swaddles, ect and every time DD came back to the room after tests, she would be back in the hospital standard half onesie and halo sleep sack. She hated her caps so we didn't bother with them once we got home.

elasticheart13 · February 2016

It depends on how long you're staying in the hospital and what the hospital provides. I was told to bring several outfits for baby as I will stay for 3 days after giving birth and to bring diapers etc. The hospitals here write on their websites what you should bring with you, so try checking that out

sprocketsngadgets · February 2016

I didn't pack a whole lot when I had DD1 and I'm glad I didn't. Two outfits for baby, a robe, toiletries, one nursing bra, normal clothes to go home in, clothes to sleep/lounge in, clothes for DH to sleep in, Phone, charger, our good camera, Chapstick. That is all I brought.

We actually came home with a whole second bag of baby/recovery stuff (diapers, wipes, formula, shirts, hats, socks, pacifiers, bath tub, shampoo, pads, mesh undies, Ice packs) from the hospital. They told us to take everything that was in the bassinet and to ask if we wanted more of anything like pads.

mommymeyer2233 · February 2016

I would bring a few outfits for or at least have a way of getting some to the hospital if you can. With my DD she HATED being cold so as soon as we took the swaddle of she instantly started crying. As long as she had a sleeper on she was fine. So I would maybe take a few of those but outfits really are not nessesary.

MamaRoni · March 2016

Can't wait to pack ours this weekend! That is such a sweet fun part to me!

mumidi · March 2016

I think you're packing too much, I'd pack 1-2 outfits for baby and that it's. Hospital will give you everything else you need. For you I would pack nursing bras, nursing tank, PJ pants and something to come home in. This time we'll pack more stuff for DH, some pillows and maybe a blanket, he was pretty uncomfortable last time staying at the hospital. Also last time we packed some snacks which was helpful.

SandiMarie23 · March 2016

I just did my tour of the l&d at my hospital and they let us know what they would supply and what we needed to bring. I packed a diaper bag for the baby ( I probably have more clothes then I need also but we are trying to get the baby's scent to bring home to introduce to the dog before the baby arrives home) and one bag for me. Our hospital will provide all things except for diapers while baby is staying and we just need a going home outfit.

Goldsgirl9 · March 2016

Our hospital provides everything for the baby but I don't like that they have them in a paper shirt and hat. They encourage you to put them in their own clothes. Pacifiers for the drive home are a must in my book.

kimey1 · March 2016

FTM mom here but other than a few baby outfits i think you're fine. I've got 2 baby outfits, my hanes undies (will dispose since they'll most likely get all gross), a robe (old & disposable), toilitries and PJs for DH and me.
I don't think you're packing way too much but I remember our birthing class nurse saying some ppl must think they're going on a week-long vacation. LOL!

Bootsie327 · March 2016

I'm packing so much less this time. I wore hospital gowns for most of the time because I was so bloody, and I ended up raiding their mesh panty drawer before I left. Haha. Also, as pps have said, I'm going to only bring two outfit options for baby to come home in. I may not even bring diapers because they have such a good stash there. I raided that drawer too, not gonna lie. They told me to take what I needed and my sister loaded up everything in a giant garbage bag for me. They have blankets, hats and long sleeve onesie/t-shirts for baby to wear there.

dayj11 · March 2016

With the all day Braxton hicks I'm reminded to get off my butt and get moving with last minute things that are not done like the hospital bag. Taking time and working on it now

shani12345 · March 2016

I packed mine with a list the hospital gave us. I had another list from the Internet and interesting bonuses they added: iPhone speakers and Physio-ball with a pump.

skc040512 · March 2016

shani12345 said:

I packed mine with a list the hospital gave us. I had another list from the Internet and interesting bonuses they added: iPhone speakers and Physio-ball with a pump.

What is a physio-ball? Is it pretty much the same thing as an exercise ball/birthing ball? If it is, I would check with your hospital or delivery center. I know most (if not all) of the hospitals in my area keep them on hand for l&d patients who request them.

shani12345 · March 2016

Skcobb said:

shani12345 said:

I packed mine with a list the hospital gave us. I had another list from the Internet and interesting bonuses they added: iPhone speakers and Physio-ball with a pump.

What is a physio-ball? Is it pretty much the same thing as an exercise ball/birthing ball? If it is, I would check with your hospital or delivery center. I know most (if not all) of the hospitals in my area keep them on hand for l&d patients who request them.

Ours has them but they aren't always available. the nurse at our birthing course said to bring one if we have the option. still haven't decided if I'll take ours but it's ready by the hospital bag

Missingchampagne · March 2016

@Skcobb @shani12345 My midwife said that yes, hospitals usually have them, but they are like $15 at Target and really think about what is gushing out of there while you're sitting on one at the hospital... Do you really want to share one? When she put it like that, I kind of made a mental note to buy my own if I decide to have one at all.

crazyliblady · March 2016

My hospital has balls in l&d, but none in my size (I'm 6'1 and need a bigger ball) but I figure an exercise ball is a good thing to have. Plus I hear they are nice for laboring at home too, when your contractions are 7 minutes apart and starting to hurt more...

ivyvines6 · March 2016

I'm avoiding packing a bag until at least the 21st. I'm convinced the baby is waiting for that bag to be packed before he decides to show up. Lol. Probably shouldn't be eating the chili powder coated pineapple and planning marathon sex sessions for a few days with this in mind >.>

sarahufl · March 2016

As per usual, I am way behind. Haven't even considered any of this. FTM, but my sister said cloth headbands are a must, to keep the hair out of your face while you are in labor. That.....about all I have on my list

(super prepared over here....)

cmjenkies · March 2016

Missingchampagne said:

@Skcobb @shani12345 My midwife said that yes, hospitals usually have them, but they are like $15 at Target and really think about what is gushing out of there while you're sitting on one at the hospital... Do you really want to share one? When she put it like that, I kind of made a mental note to buy my own if I decide to have one at all.

I mean, anything can be cleaned/disinfected. You're also using the same bed/furniture, linens, etc, as other women who came before you, so I don't see the difference there so much.

korpatch · March 2016

I'm procrastinating because I really want this child to flip! But... With being almost 37 weeks at this point... I should probably think about packing and installing the car seat. I too don't want him to think its time yet though... Cause I really want him to flip first... He still has plenty of room!

wildtot · March 2016

Any thoughts on taking a nursing pillow?

emgee27 · March 2016

Knottie2891384 said:

Any thoughts on taking a nursing pillow?

My sister recently had her first baby and she loved having hers there. She didn't use it as much for breastfeeding as for visitors who came and wanted to hold the baby. She said it gave her peace of mind that people with lack of practice holding a newborn had the pillow support. Also she said it took her a while to get used to the weight of holding a baby all the time so she used it for support as well.

I'll be taking mine.

brit&nate2010 · March 2016

Thinking I should prob start getting a bag together soon April 3 isn't too far away lol. I just don't have the motivation too. Plus the hosp isn't too far from home. I need to get a small bag together for the kids too just in case they go to sip house rather than mil coming to put house.

But I plan on packing
-couple pairs of sweats/tanks
-toiletries for me and st
- flip flops for shower
-my own towel
-a pillow
-chargers
- couple magazines
- couple outfits for baby
- blanket for baby

Hosp provides everything else. I prefer to pack light

pinottoparenthood · March 2016

Knottie2891384 said:

Any thoughts on taking a nursing pillow?

Yes! I wish I had brought mine last time! My arms got so tired, and I was always trying to prop those flat hospital pillows to hold up the baby while I nursed.

pinottoparenthood · March 2016

Also, BRING NIPPLE CREAM!!! My nipples were so so so sore!

mrstrax · March 2016

My hospital provided nipple cream and I never used the nursing pillow, but I do HIGHLY recommend bringing your own thick pillow. Like @pinottoparenthood said, the hospital ones are so flat, especially for when you want to be propped up to watch tv/read during labor!

Octoberly · March 2016

My hospital provides next to nothing (military) so as a STM I've packed even more than you lol! Pack what makes you feel comfortable but doesn't require a luggage cart to get you in and out. I will say the biggest thing I wish I'd packed last time was a reusable water bottle. I was so thirsty after you daughter was born and they gave me a small pitcher and like an 8oz glass of water. I'm bringing a 24 oz water bottle to keep refilling this time. I drink a lot though.

sarahufl · March 2016

Octoberly said:

My hospital provides next to nothing (military) so as a STM I've packed even more than you lol! Pack what makes you feel comfortable but doesn't require a luggage cart to get you in and out. I will say the biggest thing I wish I'd packed last time was a reusable water bottle. I was so thirsty after you daughter was born and they gave me a small pitcher and like an 8oz glass of water. I'm bringing a 24 oz water bottle to keep refilling this time. I drink a lot though.

My sister suggested the same thing. I have a few of these cups and I plan to bring one along. I drink way too much water for a tiny cup!

ivyvines6 · March 2016

[ ] Insurance info, hospital forms and birth plan

[ ] 2-3 pairs of socks, flip flops

[ ] 2 nursing tanks and nursing pads

[ ] Toiletries and personal items — hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, face lotions, shampoo, razor

[ ] Headband and ponytail holders

[ ] Pen and paper

[ ] Lots of change for the vending machines and non-perishable snacks

[ ] Cell phones and chargers, list of people to call after birth

[ ] Cough drops/Reusable water bottle

[ ] Crochet project (not much of a reader when I have someone to talk to)

[ ] Bath towels (2)

[ ] Two outfits for fiancé (he's packing that crap)

[ ] Going home outfit for me. And flats (Need to buy a top to match the maternity skirt I have.)

[ ] Nursing pillow, nipple cream

[ ] Hoodie (I have one with a broken zipper, which I think will be perfect for keeping warm while nursing lol)

[ ] Sweat pants for me

What to Bring For Baby:

[ ] Car seat (installing soon I swear to God)

[ ] 2 coming-home outfits (one NB, one 3/6M, both foxy)

[ ] Warm blankets (for the ride home?)

[ ] Calendar for foot printing

[ ] 2 pairs of socks (Hospital does not provide them)

[ ] Babywash (I don't want J&J used as a personal preference)

Am I missing anything? We were told not to bring pillows because they provide an unlimited supply, and we don't have a camera, or electronics other than our phones.

mrstrax · March 2016

Knottie9983816 said:

[ ] Insurance info, hospital forms and birth plan
[ ] 2-3 pairs of socks, flip flops
[ ] 2 nursing tanks and nursing pads
[ ] Toiletries and personal items — hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, face lotions, shampoo, razor
[ ] Headband and ponytail holders
[ ] Pen and paper
[ ] Lots of change for the vending machines and non-perishable snacks
[ ] Cell phones and chargers, list of people to call after birth
[ ] Cough drops/Reusable water bottle
[ ] Crochet project (not much of a reader when I have someone to talk to)
[ ] Bath towels (2)
[ ] Two outfits for fiancé (he's packing that crap)
[ ] Going home outfit for me. And flats (Need to buy a top to match the maternity skirt I have.)
[ ] Nursing pillow, nipple cream
[ ] Hoodie (I have one with a broken zipper, which I think will be perfect for keeping warm while nursing lol)
[ ] Sweat pants for me
What to Bring For Baby:
[ ] Car seat (installing soon I swear to God)
[ ] 2 coming-home outfits (one NB, one 3/6M, both foxy)
[ ] Warm blankets (for the ride home?)
[ ] Calendar for foot printing
[ ] 2 pairs of socks (Hospital does not provide them)
[ ] Babywash (I don't want J&J used as a personal preference)

Am I missing anything? We were told not to bring pillows because they provide an unlimited supply, and we don't have a camera, or electronics other than our phones.

Chapstick!

Music if it helps you relax. Otherwise any lotions/oils or massagers you want to use. I've heard a tennis ball can be great for the low back towards the end - I personally didn't want touched at all, just heat, but the hospital provides those because of liability.

Pacifiers if you want them. My hospital only provides them during circumcision and then tosses them. Darn "baby friendly" initiative.

ivyvines6 · March 2016

@mrstrax Thanks for the feedback!

mrstrax · March 2016

Knottie9983816 said:

@mrstrax Thanks for the feedback!

Oh! And a check for the birth certificate if you need one. Our hospital does the processing for you, but you write a check separate from your medical bill.

allaire314 · March 2016

mrstrax said:

Knottie9983816 said:

@mrstrax Thanks for the feedback!

Oh! And a check for the birth certificate if you need one. Our hospital does the processing for you, but you write a check separate from your medical bill.

Huh... I would have never thought of this... thanks!

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Packing the hospital bag

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[ ] Insurance info, hospital forms and birth plan

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