Baby blanket – The hospital will likely be warm but you might want to wrap them up when leaving to go outside for the first time.

Cotton wool balls - For cleaning baby during a nappy change (baby wipes are not recommended until 2-4 weeks after birth).

Nappies – A newborn baby will poo a lot! You’ll go through plenty in the first few days.What should I pack in the hospital bag for the baby? List of phone numbers of who you need to call - in case you're not allowed to use your mobile.Their toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant.Food and drink – bringing some food and drink will allow them to stay well fed and hydrated meaning they will spend less time away from you.Electronics – a mobile phone (useful for the stopwatch and updating family and friends), charger to capture the first moments with your baby.Fan or spray – a hand-held fan or bottle of water spray can help them cool you down during labour.Clothes – Depending on how long labour goes on for your birth partner could be with you a while without access to a shower.What should my birth partner pack in their hospital bag?Īs well as all the items you might need for the birth, your birth partner will require a few things: There are even companies who sell pre-made up hospital bags – but we reckon half the fun is packing it up yourself – and choosing exactly what you want to go in it. Something that is easy to see in to and find stuff in (for those inevitable 'can you get me my lip balm, darling' moments when all your partner can locate is body spray and a single baby sock). Your hospital bag should be whatever works best for you – a holdall, cabin bag, rucksack or small suitcase. Ear plugs - in case there's a lot of noise at night.Extra underwear - really comfy ones or several disposable paper ones.In case you stay in hospital longer it will be good to have: Bras to sleep in if it's more comfortable for you.Aromatherapy oils to keep the room calm.Antiseptic wipes - particularly if you're worried about shared toilets.TENS machine – if you plan to use one for pain relief.Snacks for post-brith to give you energy eg.Hairbrush and ties/clips for long hair – this can be especially helpful during labour when you’re likely to get very hot.Toiletries and a towel – basics including toothpaste and toothbrush, deodorant, flannel and shower stuff.Maternity pads and lots of spare knickers (disposable ones are particularly helpful too!).Nightwear for breastfeeding - largetop or nightdress that opens at the front to make breastfeeding easier.Nursing bras – pack two or three comfortable bras.Going home clothes these should be loose fitting and comfortable.Nightwear, including a dressing gown and slippers Clothes – An old nightdress for labour, this will likely get messy so don’t buy anything new.

So what do you need to pack? As well as the items on our check-list below, you will probably want to add in some personal bits and bobs too – phone and chargers, books and magazines and perhaps a list of phone numbers for friends and family if your partner does not necessarily have all of them stored on his phone. Writing the checklist for your hospital bag, working out what essentials you’ll need for yourself and your newborn, and then finally packing it all up really does bring it home just how close you are to holding your baby for the first time! What should I pack in my hospital bag for me? It’s a good idea to have a hospital bag packed by week 35 and either have it in the car you’ll be travelling to the hospital in, or in the hallway ready to grab on your way out! Don't forget snacks and a carton of drink too.Pop in some personal bits too like a book or magazine.Write a checklist so you can tick it off as you pack.

Hospital bag checklist