The nursery is ready. The freezer is stocked. The emergency contact list is obsessively printed out and has been distributed. And my bags are officially packed. Ok kid, we’re as ready as we’re going to be.
Speaking of bags, I wanted to share some of the essentials that I’m taking with me, focusing once again on keeping as simple as possible.
Slippers: Their usage is obvious, but the tip I received was to get some cheap, open-back slippers that you can easily get on and off, and then trash afterwards. Because let’s face it, you don’t really want to wear slippers at home that have seen hospital floors.
Skip Hop Versa Diaper Bag: While this post is all about what’s in my hospital bag (which is just a cheap Old Navy gym bag), I’m also bringing the baby’s diaper bag, which will be filled with a few sizes of pre-washed outfit to come home in, blankets, some diapers, wipers, and a pacifier.
BKR Water Bottle: Because hydration. Obviously.
Earth Mama Nipple Butter: While I can’t yet tell you if this stuff is the bee’s knees, it is what rose to the top in my research. Plus, it’s called nipple “butter,” so that’s a win.
Face Wipes: I’m brining a little toiletry bag with me, complete with these face wipes and some basics. But if all else fails, I know all I really need is a toothbrush and some face wipes. Done.
Bravado Nursing Bras: Super soft, comfortable, and actually cute.
Mossimo Maxi Kimono Dress: A non-maternity dress to go home in (and it’s now on major sale!). It’s the right amount of flowy and easy enough to pull the top down to breastfeed.
Gilligan & O’Mally Kimono Robe: A non-maternity, super softy and affordable robe to get comfortable in when visitors come. If it gets destroyed, there’s no shame in tossing it.
Bamboobies Washable Nursing Pads: Because leaks happen.
Old Navy Flip-Flops: Another tip from fellow moms. A pair of cheap, throw-away flip-flops because taking a shower in a hospital bathroom isn’t the best feeling.
iPhone Charger: This one is obvious, but I have to give kudos to Amazon Basics for creating a super affordable, highly rated, quality six foot iPhone charger. The best I’ve seen.
Snacks: Lots of ’em. And I’ve already told Josh what I’d love my first post-baby meal to be. It may or may not include french fries.
While there are a few extra goodies packed throughout, I’m ready to grab these bags and GO. Let’s do this!
Happy Running!
I would hold off on bringing the diaper bag or too much for the baby. The hospital will provide everything and they may lose whatever you provide. I brought a special hat and the coming home outfit and that’s it. I’d hate to lose a $50 blanket. The hospital will give you nursing pads too so stock up on that stuff there too but it’s nice to already have it at home so you don’t have to worry about it. It’s up to you but I keep things to a minimal and both times the staff commented how low maintenance and easy I was to work with.
I really wanted the reusable nursing pads to work for me (hello pollution) but honestly when your milk comes in and you are engorged and leaking everywhere you will go through six pairs in a day. I was happy I had some samples of the disposable ones to tide me over until I could prime some.
Agree with leaving the diaper bag and stock up on all the pads they will give you when leaving! Plus extra paper underwear! #glamorous