Best things to pack for your Hospital bag from a 2nd Time Mom
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Ah, congrats. Your bundle of joy is almost here! I remember all the prep that went into ensuring I had everything ready once my littles decided to arrive. One of the things I did the most research on was what to pack in my hospital bag. I didn’t want to pack too much or worse, forget anything. I also wanted to ensure I had the best things with me that would make me feel my best. I’m sure you have a list going of everything you are planning on bringing so here are my favorite things I brought with me.
For Mama:
Nightgowns — I ordered 2 of these nightgowns which were perfect for pregnancy, in the hospital and then once baby arrived for the late night feedings. While I love my classic Eberjey nightgowns and Nordstrom sets, these Amazon nightgowns really were perfect as things like lanolin cream can stain.
Nursing Pillow — I didn’t understand how good a good nursing pillow is until I got the My Brest Friend nursing pillow with my little guy. This pillow was used by all the lactation consultants that I worked with after leaving the hospital and now I know why. My favorite thing about it is it brings your baby to you and you don’t have to lean over to your baby.
Flip Flips — this was something that was easy to forget but I’m so glad I packed them for walking back and forth to the restroom, taking a shower and even leaving the hospital (if you just want to throw on a quick pair of shoes). I still live in my black thin strap Havaianas.
Lip Balm — I don’t know what it is, but I always felt like my lips got chapped when I was in the hospital. I swear by Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask. Side note — this is also a great thing to bring if you are invited to a Favorite Things party! Everyone loves it.
Make-up / Toiletries — I remember getting a frantic phone call from my sister who had just given birth to my niece as she forgot a hair brush, so it was the thing I bought a second of to have in my bag, so I didn’t forget it. I love this Wet Brush Pro Flex Dry Black.
For Baby:
Swaddle / Hat set for photos — Lou Lou & Company has adorable sets for photos as well as these swaddles from Pottery Barn Kids.
Going home outfit — I feel like a baby in white is so classic and angelic. I loved bringing my babies home in all white outfits. While gowns are so nice for once you are home, they are hard in the car seat, so I recommend pajamas. These are my favorite going home outfits: Again Lou Lou & Company, Kissy Kissy, Kyte Baby and Kickee Pants.
I found that everything else for baby is provided to you and no need to bring all the outfits to the hospital, you can play “dress up” once you are home.
For Dad:
This might be an unpopular opinion (eekkk), but if you live close to the hospital, once you are all settled in and are going to bed, send your husband home to get a good night sleep and have him return early the next morning with your favorite coffee and breakfast. We all know how uncomfortable those couch/cots are and when you are interrupted all night with nurses and a sweet hungry baby, it is nice to have help from your husband the next day who is well rested.