Hospital Checklist For Kiwi Parents

Don't leave this one to chance, like myself with my previous pregnancies. Granted I went early twice but having your husband pack your hospital bag is not ideal. I ended up with nothing useful and he had packed a change of clothes for himself, his toothbrush and toiletries and an FHM magazine. Men, gotta love them.

This time I'm well prepared and very organised. It definitely takes the stress and anxiety out of it. I'd recommend taking one bag for both your things and the babies. Plus a triangle pillow for comfort and breastfeeding (if you decide to do this).

I've put together a little checklist of things that you will need and a few essential items you may forget but will appreciate at the time.

Hospital Bag Checklist For Mum:

Dressing Gown and Slippers

It gets cold in hospitals and you want to be comfy and warm. I'd also invest in some nice pyjamas, one with a maternity style top to make feeding easier. Don't pack your old pyjamas you've had for years which are faded and have holes in them. You've just been through a lot and deserve to look amazing and feel great even if you don't quite feel it.

Big knickers and maternity pads

Throw away the g strings and pack those big, nana knickers (in dark colours). You will be wearing a maternity pad straight after birth and possibly for the next few days. Bleeding varies from woman to woman but it does get better. Reusable pads are great to use after the first 48 hours. 

Nursing maternity bras

I'd recommend two or three of these, depending on how long you intend to stay in hospital. This includes a couple of good maternity singlets (Bonds do some great ones at reasonable prices).

Lip balm, chapstick

Hospital air can be so drying. Especially on your lips. Make sure to pack your favourite lip balm and keep it close by. I love blistex and good old Lucas Pawpaw. 

Something to wear to go home

Sounds silly but we pack a special going home outfit for our baby so why not ourselves. I like to wear comfy black leggings and a long top. 

Toiletries 

Pack your favourite things like shampoo, conditioner, face cream, eye cream and moisturiser. Hairbrush and hair ties are also a must. One thing I didn't wear when my babies were very little and especially while breastfeeding was perfume. I wanted them to know my natural scent.

Phone charger

You will want to call and message all your loved ones and let them know how you are going. Don't get caught out and forget your charger when you leave. 

Hospital Bag Checklist for baby:

Newborn nappies (Some hospitals do provide you with some)

Baby wipes or flannels 

Two to three vests

Two to three muslin baby wraps

Two warm blankets

Two pairs of socks

Mittens

Three to Four long sleeve babygrow outfits

One beanie/hat

Pacifier/dummy if you plan on using one

Special going home outfit

With all the above taken care of it leaves the most important thing. Time with your new, precious baby. Sit back and soak it all in. Nothing beats the smell and cuddles of a newborn. Enjoy

 If you're also starting to think about which car seat is best for you and your family I'm only happy to help answer any questions you may have. Jump onto the Live chat function and we'll work through all your questions. Link here to view some of our top car seats that other parents love. Or have a read of our Blog Post 5 things to consider when buying a car seat