HOSPITAL BAG CHECKLIST

Making Sure You and Your Baby Have Everything You Need After Labor and Delivery

The following are some suggestions for things you may wish to bring to the hospital:

For Labor

  • Birth Preference List
  • Insurance card, photo ID, and any hospital paperwork you need
  • Eyeglasses, if you need any. Even if you usually wear contacts, you'll probably need or want to take them out at some point during your stay.
  • Toiletries
  • A bathrobe, nightgown, slippers, and a couple of pairs of socks
  • Light reading materials
  • Relaxing items (massage oils or lotions, music, extra pillows)
  • Picture of someone or something you love (focal point)
  • A camera and/or video camera

Postpartum

  • Nightgown, if you prefer to wear your own
  • Nursing bra (usually necessary only for support), breast pads, and maternity underwear
  • Cell phone and charger, so you can share your exciting news and photos with friends and family
  • Going-home outfit for the transition home. Bring something roomy and easy to get into — along with a pair of comfortable, flat shoes.

For Baby

  • Infant car seat: You can't drive your baby home without it. Properly install the seat ahead of time and know how to correctly buckle in your baby.
    • Car seats expire—usually within six years from the manufacture date. Check the manufacturer’s label on your car seat or check the car seat manual for this information. Register the car seat with the manufacturer so you receive any recall notifications. Replace car seats that have been in a crash or are expired.
    • Be aware of counterfeit or imitation car seats. Legitimate models have a five-point harness and chest clip. Purchase from a trusted retailer and look for the manufacturer’s information safety label, which will contain a model number, date of manufacture, and expiration date. Car seats should always include a manual and registration card. Avoid third-party sellers, including online marketplaces. Be cautious of steep discounts and look for misspelled words or blurred logos—common signs of counterfeit car seats.
  • A picture-taking outfit, since your baby may be photographed in the hospital.
  • Going-home outfit (include socks if the outfit doesn't have feet)
  • Receiving blanket
  • Cap
  • Diaper Bag