All of our clients ask this question. We know you do not want to pack too much and you don’t want to leave out items you may need! We take the confusion out with this helpful checklist!
For the birthing person:
For the labor-
Lip balm
Juice/coconut water
Honey sticks
Hair ties
Swim suit or sports bras if would like for laboring in water
Hand massager/tennis ball
Phone charger/ power bank
Comfy socks
Bluetooth speaker for music
Battery operated candles
Battery operated fan
Favorite pillow, with a plastic bag under the case to prevent fluids from getting on it
Pictures of loved ones or art to serve as a focal point
For immediate postpartum-
Deodorant
Tooth brush and tooth paste
All the snacks
Cute but comfy outfit for pictures
Facial cleansing wipes
Earth Mama Angel Baby Bottom Spray
Tablet
Bath robe
Sleeping mask
Nursing bra (2)
Boppy pillow is nice to have but not 100% necessary
Extra pillow case
Face wash, your own towel and favorite shampoo/conditioner are nice to have
Flip flops for the shower
Comfy clothes to go home in
Extra bag for hospital freebies
For their partner:
Snacks
Swim suit to help if mom is laboring in water
Change of clothes for each day
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Breath mints
Water bottle
Blanket
Hoodie
For the baby:
First outfit
Nail clippers
Muslin swaddle blanket (2)
Going home outfit
Socks
Hat
Wipes (some hospitals have them)
The hospital will provide plenty of diapers but if you are specific about this, you may bring your own.
Make sure the car seat is installed correctly before you even go into labor, if possible. Check here to find a CPST who can check it for you.
You can give us a call at Chicago Family Doulas and arrange for a postpartum doula to come by the day you get home from the hospital to help with the transition.
