Preparing for the hospital is exciting, emotional and honestly, a little overwhelming.
I remember watching tons of videos online from brand-new moms and moms with more children, and everyone was suggesting something different. Of course, every experience is individual and what works for one mom may not work for another. Some of the suggested things I really used, and some of them I didn’t use at all.
I wanted to share a few suggestions based on my own experience, things that truly helped me and made those first days feel a little softer and easier. Also, I have to mention something funny - my first time going to the hospital, I arrived with a full carry-on suitcase 😅 The second time? Just one backpack lol.
That alone taught me that sometimes less is more.
For Mom
- Comfortable button-front pajamas or a soft nightgown
- Robe (I personally didn’t use it, but maybe someone else will find it helpful)
- Slippers + warm socks
- Nursing bra
- oiletries (especially lip balm—it was a must for me)
- Hair brush and hair ties
- Body lotion
- Body wash, shampoo + conditioner (I used travel-size ones and they were perfect)
- Phone charger with a long cord
- Water bottle (hydration is a must!)
- Postpartum diapers or pads (whatever feels best for you)
- Ice-cold perineal packs (these helped so much during the first 24 hours)
- Going-home outfit
- Important documents + insurance
For Baby
Honestly, while we were in the hospital, I didn’t use any baby clothes at all. Only swaddles and the little hospital hat. I wanted to have as much skin-to-skin time with my baby as possible and for me, that felt more important than changing outfits. But if you’d like to dress baby during the stay, then a soft footie and hat are perfect. For the coming-home outfit, I would definitely prepare:
-Footie
-Hat
-Blanket
Also:
- Diapers for the drive home, just in case (the hospital will provide them too)
- Diaper change ointment
- Pacifier
- Formula and bottle, if that feels right for your feeding journey or simply for peace of mind
Sometimes it’s better to have it and not need it than the other way around.
I quickly realized how important soft, comfortable clothing was for those first days, especially pieces that felt gentle against newborn skin and made those first moments feel even more special.
For us, a soft footie, a cozy hat and a beautiful blanket made the perfect coming-home set. Simple, comfortable and something you’ll always remember. You can explore our favorite coming-home essentials here:
Cloud Pima Cotton Newborn Gift Set | Baby Fil
Heritage Hand-Smocked Newborn Gift Set | Baby Fil
Rose Pima Cotton Newborn Gift Set | Baby Fil
Blue Star Pima Cotton Newborn Gift Set | Baby Fil
For Dad / Partner
- Change of clothes
- Snacks
- Charger
- Pillow
- Blanket
- Basic toiletries
This part gets forgotten so often, but trust me it helps.
My Personal Tip
Don’t overpack. I thought I needed everything, but what mattered most was comfort, softness and simply feeling prepared, not having ten extra outfits. Sometimes the smallest things make the biggest difference.
Those first hospital days stay with you forever. Packing your bag is one of those quiet little milestones - full of excitement, nerves and love.
Keep it simple.
Choose what brings comfort.
And trust that you’re more ready than you think.
With love,
Mariana
Heart of Baby Fil 🤍