Hospital Bag Checklist:

Everything a New Mum's Hospital Bag Needs (And a Little Bit More)

Congratulations, soon-to-be mums! As you approach the final stretch (pun intended) of pregnancy and your due date draws closers, it's time to think about what to pack in your hospital bag. It's like preparing for the most significant trip of your life, but instead of packing for tropical weather or European adventures, you're preparing for the beautiful, messy, and utterly life-changing journey of childbirth.

Choosing what to pack in your hospital bag can feel a bit like preparing for a mystery vacation. You might have heard tales from the front lines about what you'll need, but every experience is as unique as your little one waiting to say hello. Fear not! We've compiled a handy hospital bag checklist, sprinkled with heaps of practicality, to ensure you're as ready as one can be for the big day. And yes, we'll sneak in a mention or two of our ethical baby clothing line - because who says your newborn can't be both comfy and environmentally conscious from day one?

For Mum: The Hospital Bag Essentials

1. Important Documents - ID, insurance info, medical records, and birth plan (if you have one). Think of it as the VIP pass to your own exclusive event.

2. Loose Comfortable Clothing - Include a dressing gown or easy-to-wear robe/slip that won't skimp on comfort. After the marathon of birth, you may want to slip into something that feels like a warm hug. The hospital may provide you with a hospital gown but lets be honest a little home comfort goes a long way in making us feel better and you don't have to use one if you don't want to.

3. Toiletries - Pack travel-sized versions of your favourite products in a wash bag. Labour is a workout, and a refreshing shower afterward can be just the ticket to feeling semi-human again. Choose a fragrance free shower gel to protect any sore bits after birth. We are loving this Pre-packed Labour Bag available on Amazon.

4. Healthy Snacks and Drinks - Hospitals do feed you, but having your favourite snacks on hand can be a game-changer during and after labour. Think energy bars, dried fruit, or anything that can give you a quick boost. Don't rely on vending machines to dispense snacks you'll consider edible during labour.

5. Entertainment - Labour can be a waiting game. You may want to bring books, magazines, or download movies and playlists to keep you entertained and relaxed.

6. Charging Cables - Because the last thing you want is a dead phone when it's time to announce your little one's arrival to the world.

7. Maternity Pads or Similar - the hospital will supply you with some but ultimately they are not great and you may have a preferred brand you want to use. Remember bleeding after giving birth is often heavier than that during your menstrual cycle so be sure to choose sanitary pads that accommodate a heavy flow. Ensure you bring enough pads with you to allow you to change frequently.
8. Lip Balm - Keep your lips moisturised and prevent chapping. 
9. Hair Ties - Keep hair ties handy to ensure you can tie your hair up and keep it out of your face if you wish.
10. Breast Pads  - whether you are using disposable or reusable breastpads it's all ways a good idea to take a couple of sets in your bag. Your milk won't come in immediately, but if you may need to stay in the hospital for a couple of days you may find your tatas have turned into fire hydrons right before your eyes.

For Baby: The Hospital Bag Welcome Kit

1. Going Home Outfit - This is your baby's first fashion statement! Our ethical baby clothing line offers the perfect coming-home outfits that are not only adorable but also made with sustainable practices.

2. Baby Blanket or Swaddles - Hospitals typically provide these, but bringing one from home can add a personal touch and comfort to your baby's first days. Again we have you covered. We can make a swaddle blanket in absolutely any of our jersey prints so don't be afraid to ask!

3. Nappies and Wipes - While hospitals usually supply these, having extra on hand is always a good idea. 

4. Car Seat - Technically, this doesn't go in the bag, but it's a must-have for safely transporting your newest family member home. Make sure it's properly installed ahead of time so that when the time comes to go home you can leave smoothly and create cherished memories as you go. Check out this handy guide for choosing the best carseat for your newborn.

Birth Partner: Hospital Bag Essentials for the Support Crew

1. Snacks and Water - Keeping energy up is crucial, especially if it's a long labour.

2. Change of Clothes - Because being comfortable is key for everyone involved.

3. Entertainment - Pack books, games, or anything to help pass the time and keep spirits high.

4. List of Contacts - For spreading the good news once your bundle of joy arrives.

A Few Extra Tips for getting your hospital bag ready

• Pack Your Hospital Bag Early - Aim to have your hospital bag ready to go by 35 weeks. It's better to look at it and chuckle for a few weeks than to scramble at the last minute.
• Keep Your Hospital Bag Light - Remember, you're going to a hospital, not moving in. A well-packed bag is a sanity saver. Once you have got your hospital bag packed, agree a place to leave it so that your birth partner or driver can find it easily when the time comes.
• Double-Check Hospital Policies - Some items might be provided, so save room in your bag by knowing what's already available.

In Conclusion

Packing your hospital bag is like setting the stage for one of the most memorable performances of your life. It's about preparing for comfort, convenience, and that special moment when you meet your baby for the first time. While our ethical baby clothing line offers the perfect ensemble for your newborn's debut, remember, the most important thing you'll bring to the hospital is your incredible strength and love.

Now that you're armed with the ultimate hospital bag checklist, we'd love to hear from you! What are your must-have items? Did we miss anything crucial? Share your thoughts, tips, or just drop us a note to say hello. Who knows? Your insights might just be the comfort another mum-to-be needs to read today. Share this post and let's keep the conversation (and the love) flowing.