The hospital will provide all basic necessities, like a toothbrush/toothpaste and shampoo for you, and blankets and diapers for baby, but some women are more comfortable using their own things from home. Here are some suggestions of things you might want to bring to the hospital.
For Mom
- Your birth plan, if you’ve prepared one
- Books you like on on labor and delivery and breastfeeding
- Robe and slippers
- Shower shoes/flip flops
- Warm socks
- Favorite music with portable player
- Lotion or oil for massage
- Toiletries (lip balm, lotion, contact lens supplies if you use them)
- Deck of cards, magazines, books, games
- Nutritious snacks
- List of phone numbers and people to notify of the birth
- Change for vending machine
- Paper and pencil
- Camera and/or video recorder with extra batteries
- Your own pillow or blanket from home (if that makes you more comfortable)
- Nursing bras and pads
- Sleepwear, nursing gowns and underwear
- Clothes for going home
For Your Baby
- Blanket
- Infant car seat
- Going home outfit
- Outfit for first photo
- Cap/hat
- Booties
- Baby book (for footprints and recording events if you have time)
