Hospital
Checklist
Print out this checklist to use as your guide for what you'll need to bring
with you to the hospital in your overnight bag. Make sure you do a final check
against this list as you are loading into the car to go to the hospital. Don't
forget your infant seat. Remember to read our section on
Baby Showers.
INFANT SEAT!
REQUIRED BY LAW
You must have a baby seat for the trip home. No hospital will allow you to
leave without one, no excuses, it's against the law. If your delivery companion is
staying at the hospital for the duration of your stay, bring THE INFANT SEAT
WITH YOU.
Food & Medicine
Any special food, drinks, or snacks, that you would like.
Also pack any special medications or vitamins that you may be taking.
Hospitals often use a special clear type of ink that only shows up on their special paper
and will not work on regular paper or baby books. So pack your own stamp pad (making sure it's safe for baby's skin - washable does not
always mean non-toxic or skin-safe). Use it to stamp baby's feet and hands into
your baby book.
Sleepwear
Several comfortable nightgowns and robes. Don't bring anything fancy that will get
ruined.
Reading Materials
Magazines, books, newspapers. Some people don't care about
reading at a time like this, but you never know, it could be a long wait.
Eyeglasses And Contact
Lenses
After going through labor and delivery, many mothers may not want be bothered by
contact lenses.
Radio, Tape, Or CD
Player
Bring your favorite relaxing music, and plenty of fresh batteries. Many couples
prefer to bring their music into the labor and delivery room. New mothers may want a
few moments of relaxation music during recovery if they are left alone. Most fathers
do not stay overnight at the hospital.
Toiletries For Mommy
Toothbrush, tooth paste, shampoo, gentle soap, deodorant, hair brush, other toiletries.
Your Baby's Book
You'll need this to register the baby's footprint. Many people forget this,
and we know of no other baby related web sites that mention this, but it is important.
Camera and Camcorder
Make sure you have plenty of fresh film and batteries. Make sure your
camcorder batteries are charged and don't forget the battery charger. Use the best
camera and film you can get.
Mommy's
Homecoming Outfit
Since you just went through excruciating pain, your "mommy's" homecoming
outfit should be comfortable and loose fitting.
Long Distance
Calling Card
You may be making some long distance calls from your hospital room and you can
assume they will have hefty fees for this service. So use your calling card or your
cell phone if they permit cell phone use. Some cellular plans have much better long
distance rates than calling cards.
Baby's Homecoming
Outfit
In this outfit, the baby will have their picture taken as they leave the hospital
by the hospital's professional photographer, so you want your baby to look their best. |
