No one gives you a list of what pack in your hospital bag when having a baby. Looking back, there were so many things I never thought to include, and subsequently reallyyy wished I had after giving birth. Using my own experience and sourcing answers from other Boston moms, I’ve compiled a helpful list of must-haves!
what was most important & most useful in your hospital bag?
must-haves:
1. Pillow + Blanket
By far and away the top two items I wish I hadn’t left at home. And other mamas agreed; having your own pillow and blanket helps you feel more comfortable during your hospital stay.
2. Extra long phone charger
Such a popular answer! Outlets aren’t usually close to the beds, so make sure to pack an extra long charging cord. In between resting and holding your sweet new baby, you’ll likely want your phone close by.
3. A robe
My personal opinion: hospital johnnies are for the birds. But chances are you won’t want to wear ‘real’ clothes right away. A lightweight maternity/ delivery robe is a perfect, comfy alternative. Other moms recommended Amazon and Pink Blush when looking for good, affordable options.
4. Bath towel + flip flops
You’ll appreciate having your own full-size bath towel and shower shoes with you in the hospital.
5. Sound Machine
The hospital is a busy (read: loud) place at all hours of the day and night. A sound machine is a great way to block some of that out. Plus, babies love white noise, too!
6. Sleep mask
Daytime and nighttime can seem like one big blur while you’re in the hospital. But getting sleep (when you can!) during recovery is so important. If you’re anything like me, harsh overhead lighting and sunlight during the day will make it hard to nod off. A sleep mask is a must-pack item.
7. Portable Mini Fan
Small personal fans were another popular answer. Not only to keep you cool during labor, but night sweats are a thing when you’re pregnant and post-partum! Having a fan handy for the one or two overnights after baby arrives is a great idea.
8. Overstocked Toiletry Bag
“Ummm, obviously I planned to bring my toiletry bag!” I know, I know this one seems obvious, but consider adding a few extras, like: travel sizes of your favorite shampoo, conditioner, body/face wash, lotion, a wash cloth, etc.
9. Clothes to Wear Home
For both baby and YOU! You probably already have an adorable onesie picked out for your little one to wear home from the hospital, but don’t forget to pack something for yourself, too!
10. Frida Mom (Pregnancy + Postpartum) Products
A lot of moms mentioned Frida products; disposable postpartum underwear (much nicer than the ones you’ll get in the hospital), cooling pads, peri bottles and more. I didn’t know about this company before I had my babies. I didn’t have a clue about the items I would need after giving birth. Knowing what I do now, it definitely would’ve been nice to have a few of these recovery essentials on hand.
I linked Frida’s most popular ‘hospital essentials’ for you here:
And that rounds out the top 10 most useful items to pack in your hospital bag when having a baby! Is there anything you think we missed? Drop a comment below to let us know!
Thank you so much for stopping by! I hope you enjoyed my “What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag When Having a Baby” feature.
Molly Katherine is a newborn photographer serving families in Boston and MetroWest MA. Specializing in organic, connection-filled portraits, Molly provides a full-service experience ideal for busy Boston moms and their modern, on-the-go families. With a curated wardrobe, light-filled studio space and custom heirloom artwork design, Molly is passionate about serving her clients well every step of the way. If you are drawn to soft, simplistic, joy-filled images and are searching for a Boston maternity or newborn photographer, we may be a great fit. I’d love to connect and share more about my process with you!
To reserve your 2023 maternity or newborn portraits, please visit Molly Katherine Photography or reach out directly to mollykatherinephotography@gmail.com. Not quite ready, but would like to keep me in mind for the future? Follow along on Instagram and let’s be friends!
Molly serves Greater Boston, Middlesex and Worcester counties including: Brookline | Belmont | Natick | Weston | Wellesley | Sherborn | Hopkinton | Westborough | Grafton and beyond
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