One of the most stressful things about preparing for a first baby is packing your hospital bag. It shouldn't be but if you think about it, it makes sense. You don't know what the heck to pack because you have literally no idea what you're getting into. You don't know what your labor will be like, how long your stay will be, what you'll feel, what you'll want... clueless. Yes, you can find a dozen lists on Pintrest but everyone is different. Then there's a whole shlew of things no one tells you you'll need so your partner has to run out and get them. And you can't forget to pack for your partner or the baby. Breathe.
I created this (awesome) kit for my friend Katy's baby shower gift. Yes, I know you should get the baby stuff off the registry. When you have a friend, like me, who over thinks and over plans this is a great starting off point!
What's inside (clock wise starting at 12)
*Pajamas. - light cotton, two piece, button down in a size larger than you'd expect them to wear. Also, light blue and blue green and patterns are the easier fabrics to hide baby made stains).
*Breast Feeding Supplies. Particularly nipple cream because new moms want to prep theirs by using it before the baby comes. Also, breast pads and heating/cooling pads because mom might need them right away.
*Antibacterial Gel for visitors. Yes they're in the hospital but it's easier for mom and dad to request guests using it when it's handy.
*Hand Lotion. Hospital rooms are dry, I used a whole container of lotion during my stay. A light scent preferred so it's mom and baby safe.
*Fresh Breath Supplies. Mouth wash and mints readily available is an awesome bonus for moms. Sometimes it's not easy or possible to get out of bed in the hospital and something about spitting into what you're holding whole nauseous doesn't make you feel fresh.
*Tumbler with straw lid. The cups they give you are ridiculously tiny and the ones that aren't for ice is an accident waiting to happen. This way too, you can refil as you please!
*Water Proof Mascara. Because at some point every women either cries or sweats during labor and there's always a camera at the end.
*6ft Extension Cord. Nothing ever reaches the outlet near the bed easily.
*Baby Lips Dr. Rescue in Clear. For the same reason you need hand lotion, you need this. This particular one is safe for mom and baby. It's also my personal lifesaver.
*Ear Plugs and Eye Mask. One of the things moms need most is rest. Not something easily accomplished with machines and IVs attached to you, nurses coming in and out of the room and your phone going off with loved ones waiting for news. This is one of the best things a mom can use for an hour... or two!
*Sweets. If they're able to enjoy, they'll appreciate.
*Shower Cap. If mom is lucky, she's not going to be there long enough to wash her hair.
*Flip Flops. This is something a nurse suggested on a hospital your. There are plenty of reasons why you might get your feet wet and not want to take the shoes home. So, make sure their a pair that can be tossed after use.
*Suckers. A lot of women are restricted from eating or drinking while in labor for health purposes. Suckers and hard candy, along with ice are the few exceptions to that rule. These are nice cause moms to be can bite down on the stick like a stress ball and they have a variety of flavors to mix things up.
There you have it! A great start to your mama's bag. Other good options are headbands and hair accessories, iTunes gift card to rent a movie while waiting, quarters for vending machines, menus and gift cards for surrounding restaurants, travel neck pillow, mini beverages for fridge, granola bars, hand mirror or magazines.
Whatever you do, your friend will appreciate the help later I promise!
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