As the ever prepared mama-to-be I’ve already begun packing my bag to deliver baby number 3. Suuure I’m only 34.5 weeks along but hey you never know. And if you’ve been following our IUGR story (read more HERE) you’ll know that it isn’t unlikely that we will deliver closer to 37 weeks.
I’d like to think that by this point I’ve perfected the art of hospital bag packing. I’ve also learned over the years that it’s kind of hard to find a hospital bag how-to with the natural mama in mind. So I’m gonna help you out! Below is a list of my MUST HAVES and my NICE TO HAVES. And for the record, not a single thing on this list is sponsored.
MUST-HAVES FOR MAMA
1// 2 sets of comfortable pajamas, these are amazing: Kindred Bravely
2// Slippers because nothing is worse than cold hospital flooring: Acorn Slippers
3// Fridet, look a peri bottle is a must and yes you can get one for free from the hospital BUT I’m telling you this one is so much easier to use. Trust me: Fridet
4// Oils and a Diffuser: https://rootsandharbor.com/how-to-order/ (you can read my whole post on the oils in my hospital bag HERE)
5// A pretty robe, when you want to feel covered up if company arrives plus it will dress you up a bit for photos. I love this one and the price is the best I could find: Maternity Robe
6// Going home outfit: something loose and comfortable because honestly you’re just going from the hospital, to the car, to your house but I totally get wanting to feel sort of put together. Plus you’re going to still be about 6 months pregnant in size so a flowy dress or shirt is your friend. Check out my post HERE for outfits to wear home.
7// Toiletries: Lip balm and hair ties of course. Facewash or makeup remover wipes (love using these!). Makeup if you’re into it, I like to take the basics so if I’m feeling up to it I can shower and get myself together which also makes for a great photo op. Any kind of tools you need (hairdryer, brush etc). Dry shampoo especially if you don’t think you’ll have the energy to wash your hair. Oh and VIP don’t forget your flip flops for the shower!
8// Natural Deodorant: if you’re a first time mom and planning to breastfeed it might be a good time to overhaul your personal care items especially your deodorant. The truth is your baby will be really close to your skin 80% of the time (even if you’re not breastfeeding) so paying close attention to what you put on your skin is super important. This is my favorite natural deodorant that works (I’m kind of a sweaty betty) and doesn’t irritate my armpits: Schmidt’s Sensitive Skin
9// USB cord: If you’re going off the grid then no, but my guess is you’ll want to snap some pictures and send a text or twelve. Grab an extra long cord like this one so you can charge and use the phone whilst in the hospital bed: Pink Cord
10// Nursing pillow: I was always happy to have this with me since I seem to forget just how small babies are when they’re born. They totally help me with nursing a newborn: Boppy
11// Postpartum care: the hospital will give you most everything you need but for me I like to bring my own natural products. I do however gladly use the ice pads and mesh underwear that they provide (because they’re oh so sexy). My list includes: Homemade Tucks, Natural Nipple Cream, Claraderm Spray (A MUST!!)
12// Snacks: Just in case your ravenous after delivery and to keep your blood sugar stable. I love packing my favorite bars and trail mix.
Must Haves for Baby
1// Swaddle, I’m a sucker for these adorable prints: Spearmintlove
2// Natural baby products: I will wait to bathe my daughter but if you choose to have them bathe your baby at the hospital feel free to give them your soap to use. My favorite is the seedlings line.
3// Newborn Cloth Diapers and Natural Baby Wipes: obviously if you don’t use cloth then skip this. And as far as I know you can skip bringing diapers all together since the hospital will give you all that you need. My favorite natural wipes are again from the seedling line.
4// Natural pacifier: neither of my boys took one but I’m still bringing one just in case. Just know the hospital will provide you with a nuk pacifier if you want it. But for me this is what I chose to pack: Bibs Pacifier
5// Clothes: honestly your baby will probably stay in the hospital shirt and a swaddle for the duration of your stay BUT you can always pack 1-2 onsies, 1-2 sleepers and of course a going home outfit. I love everything from Kate Quinn Organics and budget friendly Burts Bees Baby (they have the best sales!!).
6// Carseat: unless you’re walking home they’re not going to let you leave without it. We’ve always had a Graco click connect and love it. I was almost convinced to buy a much more expensive carseat because I wanted THE LIGHTEST carseat on the market. Then I found out ours is almost the same weight as the actual lightest carseat and half the cost: Graco
NICE TO HAVE
1// Thinx: ok, so full disclosure I have not used these ever. BUT I just ordered three pair to use post partum and I’m pretty pumped about it: THINX
2// Delivery Robe: do you need one…no. Is it nice to have…yes. I really liked having my own the last time I delivered. Not so much for the “beauty” of it but just knowing that it’s mine and no one else has given birth in it. Yeah, ever think about that?: Silk and More
3// Postpartum Tea: great for recovery and easy to make, I’ll definitely have this with me: Red Raspberry Leaf Iced Tea
4// Towels: having a few familiar comforts from home is never a bad thing. If you have space and really think this will help by all means pack a towel or two from home for that magical post delivery shower.
5// Apple TV: I have no idea if this is allowed or not but hey, I’m sure the hospital has WIFI. So if you think you’ll want to pass the time I’d say bring it.
6// Journal: I’m totally bringing one this time around. Whether to write out your birth story or to process any emotions (trust me there will be SO MANY emotions) I think a journal is a great thing to bring along. I love this one: moon journal
I’m sure I forgot a few things so lemme know what your top tips for packing a hospital bag are below in the comments. Happy birthing!
XOXO- Amanda
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