The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist for Expecting Moms

As your due date approaches, packing your hospital bag is an exciting and essential step in preparing for your baby’s arrival. To make things easier, we’ve put together the ultimate checklist of everything you’ll need—for yourself, your baby, and your partner—so you can feel calm and ready when the big day arrives!

1. Essentials for Mom

✔ Important Documents

• ID or driver’s license
• Insurance information
• Hospital paperwork (if pre-registered)
• Birth plan (if you have one)

✔ Comfortable Clothing

• Loose, comfortable maternity gown or robe
• Soft nursing bras and breast pads
• Maternity underwear or disposable postpartum panties
• Comfy socks and slippers
• An outfit to go home in (loose-fitting and comfortable)

✔ Toiletries & Personal Care

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush, hair ties, and dry shampoo
• Lip balm (hospitals can be very dry!)
• Face wipes or gentle cleanser
• Lotion and deodorant
• Light makeup (if you want for photos)

✔ Postpartum Care Items

• Heavy-duty maternity pads
• Perineal spray or cooling wipes
• Nipple cream (if breastfeeding)

✔ Extras for Comfort

• Your favorite pillow or blanket
• A reusable water bottle
• Snacks (granola bars, nuts, or fruit)
• Phone charger with a long cord
• Headphones for relaxing music or podcasts

2. Essentials for Baby

✔ Clothing & Accessories

• 2-3 newborn outfits (including a going-home outfit)
• Swaddle blankets or a sleep sack
• Soft hat and mittens (to prevent scratching)
• Socks or booties

✔ Diapering Needs

• Newborn-size diapers
• Sensitive baby wipes
• Diaper cream

✔ Feeding Essentials

• If breastfeeding: Hospital provides most supplies, but you can bring a nursing pillow
• If formula feeding: Bottles and formula of your choice

✔ Car Seat

• A properly installed, rear-facing infant car seat is a must-have for leaving the hospital safely!

3. Essentials for Your Partner or Support Person

✔ Clothing & Comfort

• Change of clothes
• Pillow and blanket (hospital chairs can be uncomfortable)

✔ Toiletries

• Toothbrush and deodorant
• Face wipes or shower essentials

✔ Entertainment & Snacks

• Phone and charger
• Books, tablet, or music
• Snacks and drinks

Final Tips

✔ Pack Your Bag Around 35-36 Weeks: This ensures you’re prepared in case baby decides to arrive early.

✔ Keep It Simple: Most hospitals provide basic postpartum supplies, so you don’t need to overpack.

✔ Leave Some Space: You might receive freebies and gifts from the hospital or visitors!

Get Ready for Baby with My Cozy Baby Nest!

At My Cozy Baby Nest, we have everything you need to welcome your baby with comfort and ease. Check out our collection of maternity and newborn essentials to make your hospital stay and postpartum journey as smooth as possible!

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