Big knickers: Bigger really is better after birth. Not only are big, high-rise knickers more comfortable after birth, they also help contain leakages and maternity pads. Bridget Jones would be proud.
Toiletries: They say that first shower after giving birth is the best of your life and they’re not lying. After days on the ward or hours in labour, you’ll absolutely want to freshen up, so make that shower worth it by turning it into a mini spa experience. Lots of brands have lovely kits with all the essentials in travel size to save on space, but essentials obviously include your toothbrush and toothpaste, hairbrush, deodorant, moisturiser, shower gel, cotton wool balls and makeup remover (for a quick, water-free cleanse). You might also like to pack some hair ties and body lotion.
Your own towels: Hospitals do provide towels, but they can be on the small (and scratchy!) side so it’s always worth packing your own towels as a reminder of home. On a similar note, consider taking your own pillow if you’re particularly fussy or will be in hospital for longer recovering from a C-section.
Ear plugs and eye mask: If you’re on a shared ward, it can get quite loud and the lights come on quite early so it’s worth packing some noise-cancelling ear plugs and a lovely eye mask to maximise your shut-eye.
Battery operated fan: To keep cool during labour, especially in the summer when it can get hot on the wards.
Hot water bottle: Hot water bottles are an actual God send during labour. When heat is applied to the skin, our heat receptors get switched on and block the effect of the chemical messengers causing the pain, which means cramps are reduced.
Phone and charger, magazines, books, Ipad: For some light entertainment if you’re in hospital for a few days.
Snacks and energy drinks: To keep you hydrated through labour (avoid anything fizzy and sip on a drink like Powerade to keep your electrolyte levels up… they do say birth is akin to running a marathon…)
Lip balm: Another thing they don’t tell you: labour can cause really dry lips so bring your favourite.
Water bottle with straw: Staying hydrated is essential but drinking from a regular bottle can be too much of an effort during labour, which is why those Love Island water bottles with straws are an absolute must.
Gifts for midwives: They just guided you through the most amazing (and tough) experience of your life and helped bring your bundle of joy into the world so it’s always nice to give something back.
Hospital bag checklist for baby
Car seat and base: Be prepared and get your car seat installed well ahead of your due date so you’re not under pressure trying to work it out during that mad dash to the hospital in the midst of labour. It’s also worth watching some tutorials on how to actually put your baby in the seat so you’re not caught short when leaving the hospital.
Newborn nappies (size 1), water wipes, nappy cream, cotton wool and disposable changing mats.
Short-sleeved vests and sleepsuits (in newborn size), socks, cotton hat, mittens and booties: You might want to dress your newborn in a plethora of chic outfits but in reality, they will live in sleepsuits for the first few weeks at least. When it comes to layering, the rule of thumb is that your baby should always be in one more layer than you.
Cellular blanket and swaddles: Babies love to feel cosy and swaddled because it reminds them of being in the womb, so stock up on blankets and swaddles to keep them warm and snug.
Hospital bag checklist for birth partner
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