Putting together a list of the things I packed for the hospital (and what I found most useful!). Since this was my second round, I took a less is more approach and tried to bring just the essentials:
Pajamas - I felt comfortable in the hospital gown, but I knew we’d be having visitors, so I packed my favorite pair of pajamas. It was nice to have something to change into that was still loose and easy for breastfeeding. A nice robe is also an option - this one is my all time favorite.
LED Candles - This is a little random, but I used these with Charley and they made SUCH a difference. The hospital lighting can be bright and super harsh; I used these during labor to keep the mood relaxed and then after birth to keep the room nice and calm with baby. They also kind of function as little night lights for those late night feeds and really come in handy at home!
Going home outfit - I think this one is obvious, but a cute going home outfit for you and baby! I read a great tip that you should buy a Premie size going home outfit for your baby for a more snug fit.
Portable White Noise Machine - The annoying thing about being in the hospital are the constant check-ins from nurses and doctors. It feels like someone is always coming in to check vitals or let you know they’re changing shifts…And yes, newborns are designed to sleep through almost anything, but I liked having this portable white noise machine with us so we could make sure Edie wasn’t disturbed. (Bonus points - this one is chargeable, so you can take it on the go which is amazing for naps and stroller walks!)
Extra long phone cord (this is on every single “packing for the hospital” list, but it’s a must.)
Socks/Slippers - I am a big slippers fan and my feet are always cold, so packing my own slippers was a no brainer for me. Good to have for walks around the hospital halls during labor.
Muslin swaddle - I brought this pretty swaddle to use since the hospital ones are heavily printed and a bit scratchy. These are pictures you’ll have for a lifetime - it’s nice to have them look the way ya want!
Toiletries - Again, I kept it pretty minimal in this department - lip balm, contacts/glasses, make-up, toothbrush, dry shampoo, but I did bring my favorite hand lotion and things like Advil/Tylenol (if your spouse or partner gets a headache during your stay, the staff cannot administer any meds for them, so this is a great thing to bring from home!). These are also GREAT (I used these during chemo all the time) to freshen up/cool down, especially during labor. I kept my lip balm and lotion in this pouch (they come in a pack of 4 and I use them for EVERYTHING!) within easy reach and kept the other toiletries in the bathroom.
Nipple Balm & Silver Cups - There’s no need to bring your pump to the hospital - they have them there if you want to use, but honestly my milk didn’t fully come in till we were back home. I do however suggest bringing nipple balm and silver cups - those are absolutely necessary ASAP. I also really liked these cooling gel pads.
Nursing Bra - Especially in the early days, I love these nursing bras which are super soft.
Bellyband - Your tummy feels so strange after giving birth - I liked the feeling of being held in a bit and this bellyband is great for all day wear. This one is a bit more restrictive and makes sense once you’re back home.
Laptop/Tablet/Kindle - I didn’t have the focus to watch a show or a movie, but it was nice to know the option was there!
Portable Speaker - Making a birthday playlist for your little one is so special. We love our Sonos player and Edie was born to one of our favorite songs. Helps make labor so much better if you can enjoy some of your favorite music!
Camera - iPhone, yes, but we brought this camera too.
Car Seat - and a blanket! Babies get chilly :)
An extra empty bag - Pack an extra bag so you can bring home hospital freebies!
Treats for the nurses - We brought cookies from our favorite restaurant as a gift to the nurses. It’s a small gesture, but this goes a long way as a token of thanks for all the hard work they do!
What NOT to Bring:
Water Bottle - I’d just lighten your load - they have water bottles at the hospital and again, one less thing to keep track of !
Pillows/Bedding - Again, this just seems like overkill to me. Plus do you really want to do laundry as soon as you get home??
Food - Some suggest bringing snacks/drinks - We did bring a bottle of champagne, and I guess it depends where you live, but we just ordered take-out for delivery (the hospital food isn’t very good).