What to Wear, What to Pack

What to Wear

We’re here to help you make packing for the hospital simple. These lists will help you feel prepared and ready for your special day.

During Labor

First, decide what you want to labor in. I felt more comfortable in my own nightgown rather than the hospital gown they offer. Some women will labor in a sports bra and shorts/underwear. Some will labor in a sleep nursing bra because it is comfortable and lightweight. Then they can easily nurse right after birth.

After Birth

After your baby is born, a fresh change of clothes is just the thing to help you feel your best. A nursing top and robe with slippers can be super comfy. After birth you will be bleeding and need to change pads frequently, so comfy clothes and ones that are easy to get on and off are best. The hospital should provide you with pads, underwear, and tucks pads. If they don’t provide you with something, ask them. Odds are there is a stash of toiletries/socks/pads/etc. 

When Going Home

When it’s time to bring your little one home you’ll want to wear something you feel good in and nothing tight, restraining, or uncomfortable. A top that will allow easy access for nursing plus postpartum leggings or comfy maternity pants will work. Take flip-flops or crocs for going home. Your feet might be swollen and you’ll want something you can easily slip on. 

We suggest having your bags somewhat ready by about 36 weeks so you don’t have to worry about packing everything when the time comes.

 

Packing Lists

For Mom: 

Toiletries:

Clothing: 

  • 2 Stretchy/maternity pants

  • 2 Shirts

  • Pajamas (dark colored)

  • Nursing bra 

  • Sleep nursing bra

  • Nursing cami

  • Light robe 

  • Sweatshirt

  • Flip flops for the shower and going home

  • Slippers/socks

Miscellaneous: 

  • Camera

  • Nipple cream

  • Breastfeeding pillow

  • Cell charger with a long cord!!! Hospital beds are always so far away from electrical outlets. You’re going to want a fully charged phone for all of the pictures you’ll be taking as well as visiting with family and friends. 

  • Headphones

  • Healthy snacks (protein bars, honey sticks)

  • Essential oils and diffuser

  • Insurance information

  • Drivers license 

  • Birth Plan (This is an important one! Bring a couple of hard copies with you to the hospital, one for the nurse and one for the doctor. It is best to go over your wishes with your doctor a couple of weeks before your due date so they know and remember. Remind them again when you head into labor and delivery.)

For Your Baby:

  • Going home outfit

  • Onesies/extra outfits

  • Socks, hats

  • Car seat

  • Car seat cover

  • Baby blankets

  • 10 diapers

  • Wipes

The hospital will provide you with diapers and wipes for your baby while you are there. Be sure to have extra room in your bags so you can take any extras home with you too as well as freebies you’ll want to bring home. They will also have a pacifier, bottle, and breast pump if you need it. They have blankets at the hospital for your baby, but some will not let you take the blanket home, so make sure you bring your own.

For Dad:

The hospital will provide meals for moms, but they don’t always provide food for dads. Make sure you know what your hospital does so you can plan to bring some snacks and plan for the cost of food for dad.

Toiletries: 

  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Deodorant 

Miscellaneous: 

  • Cell charger

  • Pillow

  • Snacks

  • Entertainment- a book or podcast can be a wonderful diversion during down time

Clothing: 

  • 2 Shirts

  • 2 Pants

  • Pajamas

  • Socks

  • Jacket/sweatshirt (This is important for dads! Women often labor very hot which means the air conditioning is pumping and it can be really cold for dads.)

For convenient access and lack of having to carry a heavy bag, try to fit everything in a small carry-on-size rolling bag if you can. You can add a diaper bag as needed. Take into consideration how long you ideally plan to stay at the hospital and what season you’re in. Try not to overpack but at the same time there is peace of mind knowing you’ve got everything you need and you’re fully prepared.


You were born to be a mother.  You are just the person your baby needs.  You are strong and capable.

I know your birth is going to be beautiful.

Hire me to be your doula and it will be even better. 

Because I’ve been in your shoes.  I’m trained and experienced.  

We’ll set up a plan for you to have the birth of your dreams.

I’ll be there for you- holding your hand and walking you through every step of the way.

I’ve got your back.

Always.

~Julie

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