What's in My Hospital Bag (The Second Time Around)
My hospital bag for Rowan’s delivery included everything but the kitchen sink! I read posts and watched videos to make sure I had everything I’d need and only ended up using about half. Plus, there were some things I didn’t packed that I wish I had. Now, my second time around, I know exactly what I’ll be needing and the extra things I can leave at home.
Hospital Bag Essentials for Mom
Boppy Pillow for nursing
Button front pajamas / nursing pajamas (2 sets)
Sleep mask - I swear by this any way, but it’s especially helpful in the hospital where it’s hard to rest.
Nursing bras (2)
Cozy socks (2 pairs)
Makeup bag
Toiletries, Makeup Eraser face towel, dry shampoo & dryer brush for quick styling
Bath towel - The hospital will have this for you so it’s only if you prefer your own.
Hair tie / hair scarf / headband
Going home outfit for mom (something loose fitting and comfortable)
Flip flops - Useful for the shower and going home
Nipple cream - The hospital will have this for you, but I prefer this brand.
Breast shells - These double as a milk catcher and also relieve sore nipples. Genius!
Nursing pads - These aren’t necessary for everyone, but come in handy for me because I leak.
Hospital Bag Essentials for Baby
Outfits for baby: Knotted gown / onesies / kimono tops (hospital stay, pictures and going home)
Hat - Super cute on and used to regulate baby’s temperature. The hospital will have this for you, but most people prefer their own for pictures.
Extra items for hospital photos, i.e. muslin blanket, name tag, headband, etc.
Diaper bag
Car seat (left in car until you’re ready to go home)
Hospital Bag Essentials for Dad
Clothes (casual)
Pajamas
Toiletries
Twin sheet set / blanket / pillows - The hospital will have these things for you, but you may prefer your own. Jeremy is taking his pillow.
General Hospital Bag Essentials
Expandable folder for paperwork - Something most people don’t think about, but comes in super handy!
Phone charger
Snacks & bottled drinks - Most hospital cafes close early, so it’s good to have snacks on hand. This is something we didn’t think about the first time that we’ve added to our list.
Extra bag (small) - Useful for all the things you can bring home from the hospital like diapers, wipes, disposable underwear, pads, perineal bottle, numbing spray, etc.
Non-Essential Items You Can Leave at Home
Water bottle - The hospital will have one for you and keep it filled.
Robe - I packed a cute robe that I used for photos, but mainly stayed in my pajamas.
House slippers - I preferred cozy socks over house slippers.
Maternity panties - The hospital provides disposable mesh panties that I preferred instead.
Blow dryer and curling iron - I didn’t have any down time to wash and style my hair. I recommend dry shampoo, especially no longer than you’ll be in the hospital (normal stay is two nights).
Colace Stool Softner - The hospital will have this for you and wont’ allow you to take meds from home.
It won’t be too much longer until we meet our baby girl and I’m sure we’ll be more than prepared with all the things! Remember all hospitals are different and this is based on my experience with Rowan, which is the same hospital I’ll deliver the second baby. I hope this helps, mama!
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