What to pack in a baby hospital bag

Preparing for labour can be overwhelming; after all, you’re nesting, putting a birth plan together, and ensuring you’ve got everything ready for when your little one arrives. Not to mention, getting heavier and heavier as you enter the latter stages of your pregnancy. When it comes to packing your baby hospital bag, having the essentials is key along with anything you love that will make your stay as comfortable, homely and calming as possible.

My friend kindly sent me a list of her essentials when I was pregnant, which was a massive help. Before then, packing my hospital bag felt like a stressful and overwhelming task, being that it was my first birth, and I had no idea what I would need. Take a look at the essentials, along with some of my comforts, below. Admittedly, I didn’t use some of my comforts when I was in the moment but they were good to have just in case.

For Baby

I couldn’t wait to pack everything ready to bring my baby home. Starting to pack his stuff felt so surreal but it was also a reminder of what was to come which was so incredibly exciting. Everyone will have different preferences with brands but here is everything I went for and loved.

Baby Grows

TU Clothing White Long Sleeve Sleepsuits

Coming Home Outfit- A very personal and special pick for your bub.

Nappies

Pampers New Baby Size 0

Cotton Wool Balls

Boots Baby Organic Cotton Wool Balls

Wipes

Water Wipes

Nappy Bags

Boots Baby Fragranced Nappy Bags

Hats

Next 100% Cotton Tie Top Hats

Ready Made Formula

Kendamil Ready to Feed

Cellular Blanket

Next 2 pack 100% cotton cellular blankets

Pack of Muslins

M&S 5 pack pure cotton muslin squares

Blanket

Next Cream Bear Fleece Blanket

The Essentials For Mum

These must-haves will have you covered during your hospital stay.

A nighty and pyjamas

Primark Jersey Long Sleeve Boyfriend Pyjama Set

This came in really handy after I gave birth, the loose fit was super comfortable and the buttoned top made feeding easier.

Primark Maternity Ribbed Nightshirt

I also opted for a nighty, which quickly had to be changed after my waters broke, but it was comfortable to wear even if it was for a short time. Having double of certain items like nightwear was incredibly handy and would urge anyone to do this.

Dressing Gown

George ASDA Pink Heart Fleece Dressing Gown

This was a must, it made me feel more at home in the hospital and it meant that I could easily walk around covered up.

Slippers

Matalan Heart Mule Slippers

Comfort is everything in labour and a good pair of slippers is essential, especially after you’ve given birth.

Socks

New Look Cosy Socks

Comfortable socks are another way that you can bring a bit of home to the hospital. They’re also great to have to hand should it get a little bit chilly in the labour room.

Pack of knickers

Matalan 4 Pack Black Full Knickers

If ever there was a perfect time to rock your best Bridget Jones knickers, it’s after you’ve given birth. Comfort is key and pairs of oversized, loose knickers will ensure you feel just that.

Towel

George ASDA Super Soft Bath Towel

An essential for that after birth shower.

Flannel

Lyra Linens Face Cloth Flannel

Perfect for freshening up.

Toothbrush & Toothpaste

Oral-B Vitality Pro Purple Electric Toothbrush

Colgate Triple Action Toothpaste

Another essential for freshening up especially if you’re having a longer stay in hospital.

Shower Gel

Sanctuary Spa Signature Collection Body Wash

When I was preparing my hospital bag, I knew I wanted scents that were as calming as possible. This Sanctuary Spa body wash smells divine and will make you feel a little bit more zen.

Shampoo and Conditioner

Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo and Conditioner

I didn’t wash my hair at the hospital because I’d already done this a couple of days before in preparation for labour. I also felt it would be too much of a lengthy task to detangle my curls whilst at the hospital. However, if you want to give your locks a refresh, these are the products I would be packing.

Mielle’s Shampoo and Conditioner features biotin to strengthen the hair as well as rosemary and mint to leave tresses feeling fresh.

Other Essentials

Deodorant

Hair Bands

Coming Home Outfit (I opted for a comfortable, loose tracksuit)

Maternity Pads

Pillow (this is a must as the hospital pillows may not provide enough height and comfort)

The Comforts For Mum

I wanted my comforts to make me feel as calm and at home as possible, especially as I felt nervous about being in the hospital. These are some of the things that I chose.