Midwife Cath’s Ultimate Hospital List

Packing your hospital bag is a bit like packing for a holiday in a foreign, exotic country that you know nothing about. Does the baby really need so many onesies? (yes). Do I really need to buy maternity pads when I’ve got a whole box of regular ones at home (yes, you do). Will I really wear those ENORMOUS high waisted knickers (oh, yes). This may seem like a lot but you’ll be grateful when the little one arrives and you have everything organised.

Here’s the checklist I give to all my prospective mums:

FOR THE MOTHER:

• 4 pairs of stretchy pants in a dark colour. Make sure the waistband is soft and comfortable
• 4 tee shirt tops that allow for easy breastfeeding
• 4-6 pairs of black underpants (make them high waisted so that if you have a c-section, they won’t dig into your scar)
• 3 soft, well-fitting nursing bras
• 1 packet of nursing pads for leaking breasts
• 3 packets of maternity pads
• Comfortable slip on shoes or slippers
• Pyjamas for night feeding
• Toiletries- toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, shampoo, deodorant.

FOR THE BABY:

• 7 soft, onesies with zips – anything else is too challenging
• 7 singlets
• 7 large muslin wraps
• 2 hats
• 1 set of going home clothes
• 1 soft nail file for baby’s nails
• 1 packet of disposable nappies (in case the hospital doesn’t provide them)
• 1 packet of baby wipes (as above)
• Formula and bottles (these are supplied by all hospitals)

INCIDENTALS:

• Blood group card
• Any relevant correspondence from your doctor, for example your Group B strep status
• Change of clothes for your partner
• Chargers/ battery for phones laptops, camera etc
• Tote bag for dirty washing