If you are reading this and are getting ready to give birth… Congrats!!! Packing those baby bags with all the cute clothes and tiny diapers is such an exciting feeling. Things may not go exactly as you planned or at the best time but being as prepared as possible for after can be helpful.
Hospitals will have everything that you NEED, but we all dream about that perfect going home outfit, the cute swaddle, and oversized bows. Here’s a list of items you may have not thought about packing.
- Swaddle blanket or swaddle sleep-sack. If you are bringing one just for pictures, make sure to bring one that you are bringing for the easy of use.
- Baby wash and lotion. Hospitals will have some for you but if you want to bring your own I would try to bring one that is fragrance free for baby’s sensitive skin.
- Baby brush or comb.
- Vitamin D drops. Ask your pediatrician if they recommend using Vitamin D drops while you are at the hospital.
- Pacifier. If you choose to use a pacifier or are undecided bring a couple different kinds. You never know what kind your baby will prefer.
- Onesie. They will spend most of their time in these. I preferred the kimono style ones because you don’t have to go over their head.
- Car seat. Stating the obvious but the hospital will not let you leave unless you have a car seat INSTALLED. I highly recommend getting someone certified to check it out to make sure it is installed correctly. A police officer told me 80 percent of people don’t have theirs installed correctly. Check with your hospital or police station to see if they can help. DO NOT USE ANY NEWORN INSERTS UNLESS THEY ARE SPECIFICALLY SOLD BY THAT CAR SEAT MANUFACTURER. All those cute head inserts and seat belt covers are actually not recommended.
- Car seat cover. If it is cold out and you want to use a car seat cover use one that goes only over the car seat not inside. Once again you should never add anything in the car seat that goes between the car seat and the baby.
- Diapers and wipes. The hospital has both for your baby but if you want to use cloth or a specific brand feel free to bring them. Make sure you keep track of how many diapers you change because the staff will want to know.
- Baby hats or bows.
- Bottle and formula. Check with you hospital what they do provide.
- Take me home outfits. Bring 2 different sizes. Sometimes a newborn is not newborn size, and even if they are they may not fit in that brand.
Have fun packing!!!
