I was in prep mode today (about time!), and started to pull some things together for our hospital bag. I packed so many things I didn’t actually use when I gave birth to Luella, and remembered a few tips I learned while I was actually in the hospital. Here’s what we are packing, and a few tips I hope will come in handy this time around!
What to pack:
(pictured)
A comfy going home outfit for baby. We don’t seem to make babies over here that are normal newborn size (Lu was almost 9lbs by the time we left the hospital…and this baby has been measuring bigger, so we pack 0-3 months. I don’t know if newborn size fits most newborns, but easier if the outfit is a little big than too small. Some of the clothes I have packed here are from Bonds, Ark and Anako, Beanie Babes Company and Freshly Picked. All of these can also be found on Instagram too!
A comfy going home outfit for you. With Lu I packed a huge towel robe and clothes for going home that weren’t the comfiest. I didn’t realise how (ahem) messy post-birth can be, so never ended up wearing that thick robe. I also didn’t totally realise I would leave looking pregnant still. I’ll be packing my beautiful light cotton dressing gown from Plum Pretty Sugar and some great transitional pieces from Blossom and Glow maternity line to wear home.
A gift for your older child. So much attention will be on baby, and so many packages and gifts arriving for the new little one. We decided to get Luella a few little gifts (2 books and some peppa pig toys) that would be from her new baby sibling. That way, when she comes to see him/her for the first time, she feels extra special. Pre-written thank you card for your doctor and nurses (oh and chocolate, bring chocolate!) Thanking your providers, and being THAT room that has chocolate for everyone, is never a bad idea. Mostly because you (hopefully) are being given great care, but also because it provides a positive environment and initiates a great relationship with those that will be caring for you and your baby. The hospital does provide blankets, but I couldn’t resist these soft ones from Maui Bird Co and Pappiyon (on Instagram too). I’m obsessed with all their stuff, so simple, so soft. Oh man, I can’t wait for skin-to-skin snuggles with these light blankets draped over us…!!
Birth plan. If you have one.
Toiletries. Face wash (The Little Alchemist)
Lipbalm (Kiyoko Lipbalm). Trust me, you’ll need it. We didn’t pack it the first time and I had to have someone go buy me some. For whatever reason, you’ll need lip balm! Little security blanket. From the moment Lu was born I introduced her little blankie. For awhile I only kept it near her little face while we nursed, and as she grew older she eventually slept with it. It became a great transitional object for her when when we traveled or when she started childcare. We bought a bunch of them, so we never worry about losing it. Snacks. For you, and for papa. Phone charger, camera. You’ll want to capture some of those first few days/nights.
Tips:
Ask for a lactation consult soon after birth. Sometimes it takes them awhile to come by, and you’ll want as much support as you can get, and the quicker the better. Oh and pads! Ugh!
That’s all I can think of for now! What did you pack?! What are your tips?! I can’t believe we are having a baby so soon…I’m starting to really get excited!!