Hospital Bag Checklist – what to bring!

Baby on the way? We thought we would put together a list of items that we know moms need to have packed for their trip to the hospital when baby says”it’s time”! No you CAN’T pack everything! It is recommended you pack your bag by the end of your 2nd trimester. Although this seems early, its better safe than sorry and you never know if you’ll go early. So stick to the most important stuff. Here is a list of “must-haves” from the moms of Le Top:

PRE-LABOR

For Labor & Mama:

• Picture ID or driver’s license, insurance card and hospital paper you need (pre-registration forms) 
• Your birth plan (if you have one) 
• Eyeglasses (if you need them) and saline solution 
• Toothbrush/toothpaste 
• Chapstick (man those lips get chapped!) 
• Deodorant 
• Brush 
• Makeup (not a must, but nice to have) 
• Bathrobe/nightgown/slippers or socks – Although hospitals provide gowns and socks for you to use during labor, sometimes your own clothes are nice to have. 
• “grandma” underwear/a.k.a. “not so pretty” undies (comfier post labor)
• Body lotion
• Sanitary pads
• Non-slip socks (good for pacing the hallways)
• Spray bottle (awesome for cooling you down during labor)
• ** something to make you relax 
  

  Le Top " Petite Duckling" Footed Coverall with Mitten Cuffs AKA "Take-Me-Home outfit"

  • your fav pillow 
  • music 
  • reading material 
  • picture of the one your love 
  • your favorite ponytail holder

For the proud Papa to Be:

• Toiletries 
• Comfy shoes and clothes 
• Fresh clothes 
• Snacks 
• Reading materials 
• Money for parking or the vending machines 
• Fav pillow

POST-LABOR

For Ma and Pa:

• Gifts for other siblings (some parents bring gifts for the “big” siblings to give to their new brother or sister) 
• Book on newborn care 
• Camera (with a charged battery) to capture your “first moments” or video camera 
• Snacks!! You are likely to be hungry after labor. 
• Fresh nightgown (for mom) 
• A list of people to call with their phone numbers or email addresses & cell phone charger 
• Nursing tank tops which snap down or lift up for easy breast feeding 
• Nursing bras or breast pads

Don't forget the car seat for the drive home.

For Baby:

• Installed infant car seat (you can’t drive your baby home without one!)
• “Take-me-home” outfit from Le Top Baby (get something with feet to keep him/her warm)
• A receiving blanket for swaddling your baby
• Breastfeeding pillow
• An empty bag (you always come out with more than you came in with! It is good for diapers, ointments, gauze and pads!)

Read Full Post »