This post has been very much requested, but I also LOVED that I created one for my first pregnancy, and referred back to it in packing my hospital bag for this time around. I also watched some vlogs, and remember my past experience of what I wish I had packed VS what I packed and did not need. The first time around, I packed SUPER light. I do feel like I missed out on a few things I wish I had brought, so I’ll make sure to explain each item down below, and why I packed it for round 2! The number one thing I will say before I get into the nitty gritty is that your “going home outfit” should be COMFORTABLE. The first time around, I packed my favorite maternity overalls to wear home, thinking I’d try to look cute. I literally got dressed, got into the car, walked into our home, and put sweats back on. Save yourself the trouble, usually you’re going right back into bed when you get home! I do think putting yourself together a little bit makes your life feel a little bit more ‘your own,” like I put on light makeup, but definitely find something extremely comfy and oversized, and don’t stress about looking any kind of way when you’re walking out of the hospital! Give yourself some grace, you just gave birth!
FOR MOM:
Cozy Pajamas that you can also wear home: Last time around, I was SO glad I brought my own pajamas. I basically lived in them. I should have just worn them home. This time I found PJ’s that I also feel comfortable stepping out in public in. I love the color of this cute set, and cannot wait to wear it the entire time we’re in the hospital!
A robe: The hospital towels are prettty mediocre, and I found that for breastfeeding, having a robe is a great option. I am not 100% sure I will use this, but wanted to pack it for after my shower.
Slippers: During actual labor, I wore the hospital socks last time, because they have a nice grip on the bottom. The other two nights I did get use out of my slippers when we walked around the hall.
Cheap flip flops: I didn’t bring shower shoes last time, and was sort of grossed out by using the shower. I am not a germaphobe, but the hospital showers are kind of yucky!
A nursing bra: If you’re planning on breastfeeding, it’s great to have a nursing bra with you. I loved the ASOS bras last time around, and already love this one!
Lansinoh nipple cream: This saved my life last time. The first few days breastfeeding are rough, and I am not sure if the hospital has a cream. I didn’t ask, because I had brought this one.
Earth Mama Perineal Spray: This also saved my life last time. The hospital does provide ways to care for yourself after birth, but this helped me cool off a lot more than what they provided.
Nursing Pads: Another must-have if breastfeeding. Those first few days are leaky and messy, and having a nursing pad in your bra helps with any leaking. I had brought bamboo reusable ones last time around, and found that the fabric really hurt my nips when they were chapped. I switched to this brand, and they were much better.
Postpartum Belly Bandit: I used this postpartum last time for the first month or two, and I THINK it worked wonders. It also felt great to be held in. I am definitely planning on using it again!
A boppy: This is one of those extras that I maybe do not need to bring with. A pillow probably works to prop up baby and feed them, but I used it the entire time I breastfed Hudson, and was glad that I brought it with to the hospital, so I will definitely be bringing it again!
FridaMom Postpartum Kit: Like I mentioned above, the hospital does teach you a lot about postpartum care, and gives you a ton of the necessities like a peri bottle and underwear. BUT, they are very bare bones, and I did wish I had done more research last time, and had more relief set up for myself. I’ve heard great things about this kit, so I am going to be trying it out.
A long phone cord: Last time I was in labor in the middle of the night, and Matt laid down to rest. When my phone was low battery, I had to ask him to charge it and bring it over. I decided this time around to get a long cord, so I can charge from the bed!
chapstick + toiletries: My lips got super dry last time, so I packed chapstick this time around, and I also brought basic toiletries like light makeup, makeup remover, dry shampoo, etc. I spent about 3 nights in the hospital last time, so I did bring anything I felt I needed for overnight stays.
A speaker: Last time we did not bring a speaker! We did have our phones, but this time around we’re definitely packing a speaker so we can listen to music.
FOR BABY:
For baby I packed super light last time, and plan to do the same this time. You could virtually bring nothing and be fine!! This time I am packing:
A carseat – Make sure it is installed beforehand!
A binkie – we did not give Hudson one until like day 3, but this time around we are going all-in!
