Mom's Packing Checklist


Packing List for the Hospital

About a month before the baby is due, families will want to begin packing a suitcase for the trip to the hospital. There are several items that should be considered:

  • Any childbirth class notes or guidelines and labor hints
  • Eye glasses as well as contact case and solution
  • Massage aids- tennis balls, rolling pin, wooden massagers
  • Massage oil or lotion
  • Comfort aids- rice sock, herbal heat pillow, aromatherapy, socks for cold feet
  • I-pod or CD player for music to help with relaxation
  • Lip balm or moisturizer
  • Hair brush, clips, ponytail holders, head bands and rubber bands
  • Mouth care items: toothpaste, toothbrush
  • Camera/video camera, extra batteries or battery charger
  • List of names and phone numbers of people to notify
  • Calling cards for long distance calls; cell phone
  • For labor partner:  snacks, drinks, drinking cup, mints, change for snack machines

For Mom, after birth:

  • Comfortable clothes for lounging & sleeping: robe, slippers, nightgowns, sweatsuits
  • Bras:  If breastfeeding-nursing bras 
  • Underpants
  • Shower cap
  • Shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer, comb/brush, other hair care items
  • Make-up, deodorant, lotion
  • Baby’s "memory" book – for footprints or staff names and guest signatures
  • Entertainment items (books, crayons, games) especially if children are to visit in hospital  
  • Clothes and shoes to wear home (a loose outfit; something you could wear at five months pregnant)

For Baby:

  • Clothes for hospital baby photo
  • Clothes for baby to wear home
  • baby cap or hat
  • booties or socks
  • mittens to keep baby from scratching face
  • few diapers
  • gentle baby wipes
  • Blanket(s) and outer wear for going home (as much as the season dictates)
  • Car safety seat

The Hospital will provide: 

  • Pairs of disposable panties and sanitary pads during the hospital stay
  • Disposable newborn diapers, enough for the hospital stay
  • Onesie, knit cap and swaddling blanket for baby to take home