Breast milk is the most important thing you can give your baby. Unlike formula, breast milk is all natural. It’s a perfect match for baby’s nutritional needs at different stages of development. 
Anh Gordon, M.D.
- Your Breastfeeding Plan and any other breastfeeding tips, labor hints and childbirth notes
or guidelines - Eye glasses and/or contact lens, as well as contact cases and solution
- Massage aids: tennis balls or wooden massagers
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- Comfort aids: lotion and socks (for cold feet)
- A sweatshirt for dad/your partner (they keep hospital rooms cold so mom is comfortable)
- Music player and music to help with relaxation
- Something to use as a fan (paper fan or small, hand-held plastic fan)
- Dental care items: toothpaste, toothbrush
- Two regular-sized bed pillows (not white, they may get mixed up with the hospital)
- Camera/video camera and film or memory cards, battery charger, etc.
- List of names/phone numbers of people to notify
- Cell phone or calling cards for long distance calls
- Cell phone charger
- Mints or hard candy for mom (ask your doctor in advance what you will be allowed
to eat during labor) - Snacks and drinks for dad
- Loose, comfortable clothes for lounging and breastfeeding
- Slippers, extra socks and underwear
- Nursing bras or tank tops
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- Shampoo, conditioner, comb/brush, other hair care items such as clips and rubber bands.
- Make-up, deodorant, lip balm and/or moisturizer
- Baby’s memory book—for footprints, staff names and guest signatures
- Entertainment items—books/magazines for mom and dad, crayons/games for older siblings
- Clothes and shoes to wear home (a loose outfit—something you could wear at 5 months pregnant)
- Clothes for hospital baby photo
- Clothes for baby to wear home
- Clothes for hospital stay (many hospitals provide t-shirts and diapers)
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- Blankets/outer wear for going home (might depend on the season)
- Car safety seat
Having trouble getting started? Get expert tips on how to minimize pre-birth frustrations.
