During my first birth at the hospital, I way overpacked. It looked like I was going away on a 10-day vacation. I took everything with me, as if I thought I was going to some deserted island, with every "what if" in mind. From endless toiletries, to cute outfits that me and baby never actually wore... my bag was bulky, heavy, and largely unnecessary. But the internet is a crazy place! I followed the advice I found on various pregnancy sites and blogs, but now by my third kid, I know better, so I did better. Here are the essential items that I actually used during my recent hospital stay.
#1 - Extra Long Cell Phone Charger
Do not forget this, and make sure to order (and try) ahead of time! I got a 10-ft charging cable for my iPhone, and needed it during every single stay. The hospital beds are typically not close enough to any wall plugs to use your standard charger from home, so make sure you find an extra long one for you and anyone staying with you at the hospital. And don't forget the wall charger block adapters!
#2 - A couple outfits for everyone
Literally though... a couple. I brought so many clothes previously, and the truth is, you won't wear them. Either your stay is "easy" and you're out in just a few days (which will probably look like day #1 - hospital gown; day #2 - going home outfit), or longer, in which case you're probably in your hospital gown for the majority of your stay so the doctors and nurses have the access they need, and you'll honestly want to have something like that on anyway for optimal healing, bathroom use, and extended time in the bed. Your baby will be in the provided hospital clothes and diapers for most of the time, and then you'll put him or her in something else typically for a quick photo and to go home in. And your support person will need a couple outfit changes as well. Don't forget pajamas, undergarments, socks, shoes, jackets or layers if you're in a colder climate, and optional nursing bras/tank tops.
#3 - Preferred Toiletries
The hospital usually has the basics stocked up, but if you have certain soaps and hair products you like to use, bring travel versions of those. Some other items I always use (in travel sizing like the following linked ones) are a: toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, small loofah, face & body lotion, deodorant, makeup remover, face wash, and chapstick.
#4 - Robe & Slippers/Flip-Flops
I thought a robe was extra. It's not. The gown they gave me was a gown for ants. My entire ass was out for the world to marvel at. Do yourself a favor, and make sure you bring a robe so you can walk the halls and not give everyone the free show they surely did not ask for, LOLz.
Also, they'll give you those typical hospital non-slip socks. You may be more comfortable in slippers in your room or for short trips leaving the room (to go to the nursery, etc). Flip-flops are also great to have for those same reasons, leaving the hospital (if weather appropriate), or for wearing in the shower/bathroom.
#5 - Makeup & Hair Products
I like to pack a watered-down version of my normal makeup routine products to have in my hospital bag, especially because I've had to be rushed in with no notice before. (Not trying to scare everyone on day 2 bare-faced raw dawgin' the world post-giving birth... naw'mean?) Buy small versions of your essentials to keep in a little makeup bag, and don't forget your hair products, brushes, and ties, too.
#6 - Velcro Swaddle & Pacifier for Baby
This is a big one!! My Velcro swaddle has been a lifesaver during the last two hospital births. I don't know if I have the world's strongest newborns, but all three have escaped the most expert of nurse burrito swaddles, causing constant wake-ups and cries day and night. Bringing a Velcro swaddle from home helps them stay cozy and content, and a pacifier can help soothe if needed.
That's it!
All of the other things, in my experience, you either don't need, won't use, or will be provided by the hospital. Shed some extra stress from this already anxiety-inducing experience, and only bring what you must have! Be comfortable, travel light, and minimize the clutter in your space. You'll be glad you did!
And if you have any other specific questions, feel free to DM me on IG @XtineElise. Happy to help! :)
Just a reminder that I utilize affiliate links, which means I make a small commission from your purchase (which doesn't affect how much you pay).
This helps this mama keep doing what she loves! TYSM in advance for your support! :-)
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