What to take to hospital
From about two weeks before your due date, it’s a good idea to have a bag packed and ready for hospital – that way you won’t be trying to get everything together while you’re in labour. Here's a basic list to get you going:
- Your antenatal notes and birth plan
- Coins for vending machines and car park
- Slippers or thick socks
- Dressing gown
- One or two nighties, preferably front-opening
- Old undies/disposable knickers
- Maternity pads (two or three packs)
- Nursing bras
- Basic toiletry kit – toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, face wipes, lip salve and moisturiser
- Patterned towel and patterned pillow and pillowcase (patterned linen won’t get put in with the hospital laundry!)
- Nipple cream and breast pads
- A stash of snacks and energy drinks
- Comfortable clothes to go home in
Optional extras include an Ipod and speakers, massage lotion, a Swiss ball, a TENS machine if you’re using one, a supply of squash and glucose tablets, things to help pass the time (e.g. a magazine or book), a baby diary for your to start noting feeding times, information about breastfeeding, make up, contact lenses etc.
And for your baby:
- Nappies
- Cotton wool
- Vests/babygrows (a few of each)
- Socks and scratch mitts,
- Thin cotton hat
- Muslins (buy coloured or patterned ones so that yours are easy to distinguish)
- Blankets and a warm outfit for going home
- Car seat
Hospitals have swaddling sheets, cellular blankets and baby nighties, but you can bring your own if you prefer.
