What to bring to the Hospital

For Mom:
  • Nightgown or shirt to wear during labor you don't feel comfortable in a gown provided from the hospital (it should be loose·fltting or something that can be completely opened in the front)
  • Robe or bed jacket
  • Socks
  • Slippers
  • Nightgown or pajamas (if breast-feeding, bring those made for nursing)
  • 2-4 bras (nursing bras if you plan to breast-feed)
  • 3-6 pairs of underpants
  • Toiletries: toothbrush/toothpaste; soap; shampoo/conditioner; deodorant; lotion; comb; brush; lip balm/chap stick
  • Hair scrunchie, rubber band or hair clip to pull hair back during labor
  • A photo or object to be used as a focal point during labor
  • Going-home outfit - something comfortable and loose-fitting
(Optional)
  • Lollipops or hard candy to keep your mouth moist during labor
  • An activity (such as pre-addressing birth announcements, crossword puzzles) or book to keep busy during early labor
  • Makeup, lipstick, and scented shower gel or body powder to make you feel better after labor
  • Eyeglasses or contact lenses (keep in mind that you can wear your eyeglasses during labor, but you must take out your contacts)
  • Watch
  • Address book
  • A small gift from the baby for the other children at home

For Husband/Partner
  • Insurance information 
  • Hospital pre-registration information 
  • Change of clothes and toiletries, if he or she is allowed to stay in room
  • Things to be used during labor: soothing music, something to be used as a focal point, tennis ball or lotion for massage, watch, paper, pen, snacks 
  • Book or magazine for reading 
  • List of people and phone numbers to call and the order in which they are to be called
  • Change, long-distance calling card, or phone to make calls
  • Camera and film (make sure it is charged, pre-loaded with memory/film and in good working condition)
  • Camcorder or cassette recorder with sufficient memory/tapes/discs (*hospital policy restricts filming until after your baby is born)

For Baby
  • Cord blood collection kit (it prearranged)
  • Onesy, socks, hat
  • Going-home outfit
  • Bunting/jacket (depending on season)
  • Receiving blanket (and a heavier blanket if it is cold)
  • Car seat (Remember - you can't leave the hospital without it.  Please make sure it is properly installed (many baby stores and police and fire departments offer instruction). Click here for a complete guide to car seats for infants.