Preparing for baby: What you need to pack in your hospital bag

One of the most exciting ‘must-dos’ during pregnancy is packing a labour bag for the hospital.

For new mothers, packing the bag is as exciting as it is daunting because this signifies entry into unknown territory and the imminent arrival of baby.

“Mothers often forget that they will be spending some time in hospital themselves and it is important to pack personal items to make this stay as comfortable as possible from both a physical and emotional aspect. The following are basic items that are suggested for all expectant mothers to pack in the hospital bag,” says Astrid Anderson, distributor of Philips AVENT products and former maternity nurse:

For mom

• Toiletry bag (including soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, body and face cream, shampoo and conditioner, face cloths, lip balm, hairbrush,  deodorant – but remember that scents should not be too overwhelming that baby doesn’t identify mother’s natural smell)
• Bath towel
• Handbag with personal identification documents
• Loose Clothing
• Feeding bras
• Maternity underwear and maternity sanitary pads
• Sleepwear, t-shirts, tracksuits – front opening for easy breastfeeding
• Gown
• MP3 player or Ipod
• Hairband
• Comfortable shoes (slippers and shoes for when strolling in the hospital gardens or to the nursery)
• A pillow from home to aid in sleeping or relaxing
• A few healthy, light but high energy snacks, or money to buy these at the hospital
• Cellphone and charger
• Camera with extra batteries and video camera
• Breast pump
• Breast pads
• Plastic bag for dirty clothing
• Anything else that might personalise your labour room and make you feel more comfortable.

Pack these items for baby

• Six or more pieces of clothing
• Six or more vests
• A ‘going home’ outfit
• One packet of nappies
• Blankets
• Soother
• Beanie
• Socks
• Baby Oil or lotion
• Bum Cream
• Wet Wipes
• Cotton Wool to wash baby with

Remember to place the bag in an easy to reach area for grabbing on the way to the hospital. Anderson suggests having the hospital bag packed and ready around week 35 of pregnancy, just in case baby decides to come early.

Lastly, remind your partner to collect the baby car chair when coming to collect you both.

About the Author: Visit the Philips AVENT website at www.philips.com/avent to learn more about its product portfolio, and for valuable information and tips on feeding, or check out the Philips AVENT Facebook page at www.facebook.com/philipsavent. Philips AVENT products are available at Baby City, ToysRUs and selected leading pharmacies.

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