As we all know, when we hit that last trimester the countdown is real and we start nesting! Packing our hospital bags, organizing the nursery, washing the bottles, and cleaning our homes. We are just preparing for our bundle of joys and making sure we have all the essentials.
💛 Tiffany's doula tip
One thing I always do for my pregnant friends and family is pack a mommy bag! It was done for me during my own pregnancy and it was the best thing anyone could have done — so now I do it for others. I make sure to add toiletries and their favorite snacks. It is a small act of love that makes a huge difference during labor. 🌸
"You may be in the hospital for a few days — so pack for comfort, pack for confidence, and pack with love."
Mama Essentials
For labor & deliveryIdentification & Documents
- Driver's license or ID
- Health insurance card
- Hospital registration paperwork (if required)
Comfortable Clothing
- Loose-fitting, comfortable clothes for labor
- Robe
- Slippers or non-slip socks
- Nursing bras and breastfeeding padsIf breastfeeding
- Nipple creamLanolin is a great option
- Your own pillow and blanketHospital pillows are not it!
Personal Items & Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo, conditioner, and soap
- Deodorant
- Hair ties or headbands
- Lip balm
- Face wash or cleansing wipes
- Glasses or contacts and supplies
- Peri bottleA must for postpartum recovery
- Stool softenersTrust me — that first postpartum poo is no joke!
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Camera (optional but you'll be glad you have it)
- Headphones
Snacks & Drinks
- Reusable water bottleYou NEED to stay hydrated — trust me!
- Healthy snacks (granola bars, nuts, dried fruit)Also your favorite snacks — labor is a long road!
Partner Essentials
For your support person- Comfortable, layered clothingLabor rooms can get chilly!
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant)
- Change of clothes
- Snacks and drinks
- Entertainment (book, tablet, or phone)
Baby Essentials
For your new arrivalClothing & Comfort
- Going-home outfit
- Onesies and sleepers
- Baby hat, socks or booties
- Swaddle blankets
- Breastfeeding pillowI used mine for comfort AND sat baby in it!
- Diapers and wipesHospital provides these — but I like to be overprepared!
Feeding Supplies
- Nursing pillow and nipple creamIf breastfeeding
- Pre-measured formula and sterilized bottlesIf formula feeding
Getting Home Safely
- Properly installed infant car seatHave this installed before your due date!
- List of important contacts including pediatrician's number
Remember — you may be in the hospital for a few days, so pack enough for both you and your baby. And most importantly: pack with joy. Your baby is almost here! 🌸