What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Mom and Dad
Hello, readers!
Congratulations on your impending arrival! Packing your hospital bag is an exciting and essential task that will help you feel prepared and comfortable during your stay. While the hospital will provide some basics, it’s a good idea to bring along certain items to ensure your comfort and well-being.
For Mom
Essentials
- Clothing: Pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothes for during and after labor, such as a robe, nightgown, and slippers.
- Toiletries: Bring essentials like deodorant, soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and a toothbrush.
- Pain relief: Consider packing over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Comfort items: Bring items that will make you feel at home, such as a pillow, blanket, and eye mask.
- Documents: Keep your ID, insurance card, and birth plan organized in a folder.
Postpartum care
- Nursing bras and pads: Pack comfortable nursing bras and breast pads to help with milk production and leakage.
- Peri bottle: This portable squirt bottle is used to clean the perineal area after birth.
- Hemorrhoid cream: Hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy and childbirth, so consider packing some cream to ease discomfort.
- Sitz bath: A sitz bath is a shallow basin filled with warm water that helps soothe the perineal area.
For Dad
Essentials
- Clothing: Pack comfortable clothes for supporting Mom during labor and after, including a t-shirt, sweatpants, and sneakers.
- Toiletries: Bring basic toiletries like deodorant, soap, and a toothbrush.
- Electronics: Charge your phone and pack a portable charger for easy communication and entertainment.
- Snacks and drinks: Pack healthy snacks and drinks to keep your energy levels up.
- Camera: Capture those precious first moments with a camera or smartphone.
Comfort items
- Comfortable chair: If possible, bring a comfortable chair or inflatable cushion for support during labor.
- Pillow and blanket: Provide extra comfort for yourself and Mom with a pillow and blanket.
- Entertainment: Pack books, magazines, or a tablet for entertainment during downtime.
For Both
- Insurance information: Keep a copy of your insurance card easily accessible.
- Payment method: Have a credit card or checkbook on hand for any unexpected expenses.
- Car seat: Bring a car seat for the baby to ride home safely.
- Going-home outfits: Pack outfits for Mom, Dad, and the baby for the ride home.
- Snacks and drinks: Pack some snacks and drinks for the journey home.
Essential Items Table
| Category | Mom | Dad |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing | Robe, nightgown, slippers | T-shirt, sweatpants, sneakers |
| Toiletries | Deodorant, soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste | Deodorant, soap, toothbrush |
| Pain relief | Ibuprofen, acetaminophen | Not necessary |
| Comfort items | Pillow, blanket, eye mask | Pillow, blanket, comfortable chair |
| Postpartum care | Nursing bras, breast pads, peri bottle, hemorrhoid cream, sitz bath | Not necessary |
| Electronics | Phone, charger | Phone, charger |
| Entertainment | Books, magazines, tablet | Books, magazines, tablet |
Conclusion
Packing your hospital bag can be a daunting task, but it’s a necessary one that will help you feel prepared for your new arrival. By following these tips, you can pack a bag that will provide comfort and convenience for both Mom and Dad during this special time. Don’t forget to check out our other articles on pregnancy and childbirth for more tips and information!
FAQ about What to Pack in Hospital Bag for Mom and Dad
What should Mom pack in her hospital bag?
Comfortable clothing: Loose-fitting gowns, robes, or pajamas that are easy to move around in.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion.
Comfortable shoes: Slippers or non-slip socks for walking around the hospital.
Nursing bras and pads: If planning to breastfeed.
Snacks and drinks: Pack light snacks like granola bars, crackers, and fruit.
Entertainment: Books, magazines, or a tablet for entertainment during labor and recovery.
Valuables: Keep your phone, wallet, and insurance card in a secure place.
Birth plan: If you have one, bring a copy for the medical staff.
Pillow and blanket: For comfort during labor and recovery.
What should Dad pack in his hospital bag?
Comfortable clothing: Pack comfortable pants, shirts, and socks.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and soap.
Snacks and drinks: Pack healthy snacks and drinks for himself.
Entertainment: Bring a book or magazine to read while waiting.
Change of clothes for Mom: Pack a clean outfit for Mom to wear after delivery.
Camera: To capture those special moments.
Phone and charger: To stay connected.
Cash or credit card: For any expenses that may arise.
Insurance card: Make sure both parents have their insurance cards.