essential lists
What to pack in your hospital bag for labour
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Unless you give birth by a planned C-section, you'll never know exactly when your baby will be arriving, but you should have your hospital bag ready well before your due date.
The NHS advises to pack it two to three weeks before.
Finding the balance of how much to take can be tricky, especially if you're a natural over-packer!
Every pregnant mum needs to have a roomy bag packed ready for her baby's arrival, with enough space for all of the new arrival’s essentials.
You should also make sure that you have packed everything you need for labour, too.
Below is a handy gallery with the bare essentials you’ll need.
It’s a good idea to pack an extra bag with spares and leave it at home, which your partner can bring in if needed.
1. Nursing Pads
*Washable organic bamboo nursing pads which are hypoallergenic, organic and absorbent
*Comfortable and extra thick so they'll absorb any excess milk
*Waterproof layer prevents any leaking
These reusable, natural nursing pads are perfect for taking to the hospital with you, and can be reused to save money and waste. Each is 12 cm in diameter, and they're super soft and hypoallergenic which is ideal for sensitive, postpartum nipples. The set comes with six pairs of nursing pads in various pastel colours.
2. Maternity Pads (10-pack)
*Organic cotton covered maternity pads which are extra absorbent
*Biodegradable and compostable, and the packaging is plastic-free
*Chlorine-free and won't irritate your sensitive, bruised skin
Thick, soft and absorbent pads ideal for the first few days after the birth - just make sure you pack more than one packet! This brand comes in packs of 10, and are made with organic cotton covers that won't irritate your delicate skin. The packaging and pads are 100 percent plastic and chlorine-free, as well as being biodegradable and compostable.
3. Cotton Disposable Briefs (five-pack)
*100% cotton lightweight knickers which are breathable and disposable
*Choose from a pack of 5, 10 or 20 and in sizes S, M, L or XL
*Soft and stretchy with a flexible fit that is comfortable for you
No, they're not the sexiest item in the world, but investing in these saves ruining other pairs as you can throw them away after they've been used. They're also breathable and comfortable, which is what you need when you've just given birth! Make sure to pack a few pairs in case you stay longer in the hospital than expected – better safe than sorry!
4. Arnicare Arnica Cream
*Soothing herbal cream which helps to treat bruises
*Made with the active ingredient Arnica Montana tincture
*The same formulation is available as a massage balm instead
This soothing herbal cream that's great for treating sore, bruised skin especially after labour. It's dermatologically-tested and is gentle enough to be used on your post-pregnancy skin. It contains the active ingredient Arnica Montana which has been recognised for its beneficial natural properties since the 16th century. Also available to buy as a massage oil or cooling gel.
5. Newborn nappies (96-pack)
*Bulk pack of 96 nappies with soft nappies for newborn babies
*Wetness indicator tells you when your baby might need a change
*Nappies have air channels for up to 12 hours of breathable dryness
Whether you plan to reusable nappies at a later date, these are the ideal easy-to-use option for the early weeks. The special shape is designed for newborns, and available in several sizes to fit your baby.
The soft, stretchy sides make them very comfortable and ensures their early days are as dry as possible.
6. 100% Organic Raw Shea Butter
*100% pure organic shea butter
*Packed with vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin F and it offers UV protection, too
*Can be used on baby skin as well as your own
A thick soothing butter, ideal for soothing away dry skin and stretch marks, full of naturally-sourced ingredients. It's gentle and natural so won't irritate your delicate skin, and can double as a lip balm, make-up remover, baby care product and more.
It also smells delicious, while being free from any harsh chemicals or strong scents which may be too strong. With so many uses, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it!
7. Sleep mask
*Cosy padded sleep mask that doesn't put too much pressure on the eyes
*Made from slow rebound memory foam and fine fabric which moulds to the face
*Great for naps during the day
A good night’s sleep is one of the best gifts you can give to a tired mum-to-be. This mask is padded and designed to be as comfortable as possible, while keeping the light firmly out. It really helps if you're going to be spending a few nights in the hospital, as there are likely to be bright lights that will wake you up!
8. Sleepsuit, £17
*Super-soft baby sleepsuit with fox and tree motifs
*Made from 100% cotton, which is super breathable and soft on sensitive baby skin
*Comes with fold over scratch-proof mitts up to nine months
Sleepsuits are the best way to dress a newborn baby, as they'll keep them warm with a minimum of fuss. Make sure you pack at least three for your hospital stay. With a popper front, leg opening and built-in mitts to prevent babies from scratching themselves, this one is sure to make caring for a newborn that bit easier. We adore the fox and tree pattern, too!
Read on:
- The best buys to help you through labour
- The best buys for a hassle-free pregnancy
- What your partner should pack for labour
