Prepping Nursery and Hospital Bag
I recommend getting the below ready by week 32-34, in case baby arrives early:
Car Seat Installed: Make sure you’ve followed the installation directions (video is usually best). Include the “infant insert” and have the straps at their lowest setting (new carseats generally come this way, but if you’re getting a hand-me-down, you’ll likely need to re-set).
Nursery Basics Set Up
Bassinet with washed sheets (use a laundry detergent like Dreft or Babyganics that’s extra gentle)
Swaddles and newborn outfits washed and ready
Changing station with diapers, wipes, rash cream, hand sanitizer
Nursing station with glider, burp cloths, nipple cream, pumps, nursing pads
Medical station with thermometer, nose syringe, nail trimmer (optional gas drops)
Bottle station in kitchen (might not need immediately, but good to have ready in case): bottles, soap, parts cleaner, bottle warmer
Optional:
Baby monitor - won’t need immediately because you’ll likely sleep with baby in your room (or under watch of a night doula) for the first month
Crib - won’t use for a couple months, but if you want to knock it off early before you’re busy with a newborn, go for it! You will need to recruit another person to help build - and make sure you set up the mattress height at the highest level (you will lower it once baby is pulling up to stand).
Hospital Bag Packed
ID and Insurance card (obviously will have to pack this later since you need before then!)
Phone Charger (ideally with a long cord)
Two copies of printed birth preferences (if you have them), including name of pediatrician
Lip balm since lots of breathing can dry your lips
Eye mask and/or ear plugs for catching some zzzzs
Water bottle with a straw
Snacks for Labor
for you: coconut water or Pedialyte; apple sauce, string cheese, banana
for partner: nuts, power bars, sandwiches, caffeinated drinks
Yummy food for after - hospital food ain’t the best
Clothes: two pairs of comfy clothes for both you and partner
Toiletries (you will be staying a minimum of two nights)
Two sets of newborn clothes (perhaps one newborn size and one 0-3 months) and a baby hat
Baby nail trimmer - this may end up being unnecessary, but some babies are born with little claws and hospitals weirdly won’t provide clippers
A blanket for baby to keep warm in the car ride home
Optional:
A warm robe and slippers (or comfy socks)...hospitals can be chilly!
Your own postpartum underwear - hospital provides some but Frida brand may be more comfy
Headphones or speakers, and chargers for them
Electric heating pad - can provide comfort during labor
Pillows from home - much comfier than the hospital ones
Diffuser or candles if it helps you feel calm
Birth announcement sign like this
Not necessary: hospital provides diapers, wipes, postpartum pads, peri bottles, etc.
