I cannot believe it’s finally time to start packing my bag for the hospital! I’ll be honest, I did not open my hospital bag with Macey until I needed a toothbrush. Let me first start by saying, the hospital really does take care of you. Gowns, pads, mesh undies, spray bottles, witch hazel pads…those were all provided – thank goodness. The less you need to bring home and launder yourself, the better.
However, there are things you’ll want to bring from home for general comfort. I did not pack what I needed during my first trip to the hospital because I had no idea what to expect. I feel like this time around will be better! π
On that note, here’s what I’m packing!
1 // Bamboo Nursing Pads
Everyone’s nursing journey is different. For me, I was actually leaking before Macey was even born (true story). I had a major over supply issue (or blessing depending on how you look at it) so I was in desperate need for high quality nursing pads and these are it. I wore these daily during all 14 months of nursing Macey. I also used these Lansinoh disposable nursing pads, which worked amazingly well, but I tried to use the reusable ones whenever possible.
2 // Kindred Bravely Nursing Bras
Speaking as a busty girl, it’s very difficult to find nursing bras that really do the trick. However, I wore these to bed at night with Macey and they make great bras for the hospital because they are SO comfortable!
*As far as everyday nursing bras go – I’ve found getting fitted at Nordstrom is the best bet. They’ll actually fit you in any bra you like and then for a flat fee (it was $26 last I checked) they’ll turn it into a nursing bra for you!
3 // Nursing Cami
I did not bring this cami to the hospital when I was there with Macey but I kept wishing I had. This was my go-to nursing cami because of the compression it offers around the stomach. I’m planning to bring this with me this time around to wear on the way home.
4 // Makeup Remover Wipes
This was my number one regret, not having a way to fully remove my makeup. Yes, I brought my toiletries but completely forgot my pack of makeup remover wipes. As a result, this was what my under-eyes looked like in all of the photos because I could not get my mascara off (ha!)…I’ll be bringing my Burts Bees Face Cleansing Towelettes this time for sure.
5 // Slippers
A must. They’re the only shoes you’ll want with you at the hospital (besides shower flip flops) until you go home. It can be cold and the floors are slick so I’d suggest a slipper with a rubber bottom. These from J. Crew are my favorite and currently on sale!
6 // Shower Flip Flops
I didn’t have these round one and I survived but I know I’ll feel better if I have a pair with me for the shower.
7 // Robe
A robe is the perfect thing to throw over the hospital gown you’ll be living in. It’ll not only help keep you warmer but it’s easy to nurse in and will be a sweet little piece of home while you’re there. My exact robe is sold out but this one is very similar and gets great reviews!
8 // Toiletries
Bring the basics + any makeup, lotion, etc that just makes you feel more like yourself. I keep mine in my Daisy Faye Designs zipper pouch.
9 // Cell Phone Charger
It’s always better to be safe and have this with you. π
10 // Going Home Outfits (You & Baby)
Pack something comfy but that’s going to make you feel cute when you pack the car to go home. Nothing tight, just something easy. I’m planning to bring my Loft sweat set (linked below) but likely one other lighter option because the weather can be so unpredictable in Seattle in May/early June. I think I’ll pack my Lay-Z tee from Target, I wore this home from the hospital with Macey. π
Baby will come home in a Solly Baby Sleeper! However, because we don’t know the gender I’m bringing a few footed sleepers and a bow.
11 // Baby Blanket
A baby blanket was one item we didn’t remember to bring to the hospital with us with Macey but luckily someone gifted us one at the hospital (thanks Anna & Eleah)! You’ll just need this for the car ride home because baby will need to come out of the swaddle to be buckled in. I’ll be bringing the one pictured above with us this time around (thanks Katy & Matt). π
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