Let's talk bags
Updated: 2 days ago
NO, not the latest Gucci crossover, it’s time for the hospital bag and nappy bag – the question is... what to put in them!
The nappy bag
We’re putting it out there. You don’t have to buy a specific nappy bag if you don’t want to, you can carry on using a normal handbag if you prefer as long as it’s got a bit of room and some compartments and pockets so you can separate things up.
Here is a list of things you might want to include in your nappy bag
The Red book – it can be a convenient place to leave it and means it is there for any doctors’ visits. – you’ll need to take their red book when/if they have vaccinations. The red book is given to you by the hospital after you’ve given birth. It will record
Muslin – we love big one can be used for lots of different things from a cover if you are breastfeeding to a mat to lie them down on the floor.
Spare change of clothes (add a couple of pairs of socks as they can always double as gloves if needed!)
Bottles if needed
Dummy (optional) - pop a sterilised one in a small Tupperware to keep it clean.
Nappies – only bring as many as you think you’ll need perhaps one extra for emergencies!
Nappy cream – travel size (Metanium, Sudocrem, Bepanthen)
Wipes
Teething granules (from 3 months)
Breathable Blanket
Comforter
Changing mat – there are lots of handy travel-sized changing mats.
Hand sanitiser
Snack for you
Lipgloss and mirror
The hospital bag
The bag you pack will very much depend on how long you expect to stay in the hospital if that is the path you have chosen. If you have decided on a home birth then it is a good idea to have a bag ready, just in case. This is a guide of what you might want to include.
Baby
Car seat, with iso-fix
4 to 6 baby grows – with optional feet and hand covers we suggest you take some 0-3-month baby-grows just in case they don’t fit and a couple of newborn ones too.
2 baby hats
Four big muslins
Pack of nappies – new-born or potentially 0-3 months (depending on how big you think the baby is going to be)
Cotton wool
Pre-made formula bottles (optional)
Dummy (optional)
Blanket
Mum
Pjs to change into post-birth
Loungewear/comfies to be in
Birthing nightie or T-shirt (sleeves, cotton, short)
Makeup basics - include lip balm
Eye mask, earplugs
Basic toiletries - toothbrush/toothpaste, deodorant, face wipes, facewash
Moisturiser
Dry shampoo, hairbrush, hair ties/headband
Reusable water bottle with strap
Phone charger
Slippers/flip flops
Dressing gown
Maternity pads (more than you think) + disposable knickers
Flannel (for face)
Water wipes
Pillow
Headphones
Birthing playlist of all the tunes you love, the ones that make you feel good
Essential oils so your birthday partner can rub on your feet/temples etc (optional)
Your favourite snacks, you need stuff that will fuel you
Partner
Magazines/book
Headphones
IPad - Laptop
Download something to watch, or podcasts can be a lifesaver
Snacks
Pillow
Small bag of toiletries - deodorant, toothbrush, moisturizer
Phone charger
Reusable water bottle and coffee cup
If you have a birthing plan, bring it. But remember this can go out of the window very quickly!
If you're looking to buy a new nappy bag, these are the brands we love
