Writer Lynda Moyo has given us her handy tips for packing a hospital bag for when waiting for an arrival
While some of us may have a very strict, fully kitted out hospital bag list already compiled for heading to the hopsital for that very nerve wracking day of welcoming a baby into the world, it can seem a little daunting to some expectant mums. Lynda Moyo, our lovely writer who has just welcomed a little one has quite generously shared her must-have’s to pack for the big day.
While working with the likes of the baby skincare brand My Expert Midwife brand before giving birth, Lynda had the opportunity to pick some essentials to take with her to hospital to test and most importantly…. see what she could recommend to other mums to ease the anxiety.
Here’s Lynda’s packing essentials with some really handy ways to make sure that comfort is key when our brains could maybe be a little frazzled ahead of giving birth.
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As a mother of three, packing a hospital bag ready for going into labour is something I’m well versed in.
From maternity towels as thick as mattresses, to disposable knickers (or at least knickers you don’t mind disposing of) and a bag of Percy Pigs for energy, knowing what you might require for when you’ve just gone through such a physically and mentally-intense experience or in the case of C-section, major surgery, is fairly obvious, right?
In the last decade, however, it would seem the labour game has changed. It’s definitely become far more glamorous than I recall.
Head over to TikTok and a quick search will lead you to ‘GRWM to have my baby’ videos where mums-to-be with face masks on and hair in rollers pack cute little labelled zip lock bags and talk about peri bottles and going home outfits.
There’s something about this reclaiming of new motherhood that is somewhat refreshing. Gone are the days of being told how to give birth, for a much more parent-led experience.
I’m here for it, but it does also mean you could end up delusionally packing like you’re off on honeymoon. Some things are just not necessary and there are lots of videos circling online that seem more about getting thousands of views than offering logical and realistic advice.
So here, in my almost a decade of birthing experience and following the birth of my third child recently, is exactly what you need in your hospital bag. Nothing more, nothing less…
Pyjamas or nightie
Contrary to popular opinion these do not have to be buttoned pyjamas. I personally don’t like my legs covered as I get too hot so I’ve found maternity nighties better like this black nursing nightie set with kimono (currently on sale for £22.50) much better. Plus you don’t have to faff with buttons if you’re breastfeeding.
Dark towel
The hospital might provide a towel for you but it definitely won’t be black so I suggest ordering a couple of cheap black towels to use both in hospital and during your first days at home so you don’t ruin your best towels with the aftermath of birth! I purchased these two cheap black bath towels from Amazon (£13.99) that definitely do the job.
Going home outfit
Ok, I get it, you want to leave the hospital looking like Kate Middleton on the steps of the Lindo Wing in London . However, the reality is that comfort is key. I recommend something stretchy and supportive around the tummy area, baggy and dark coloured was also my preference with this Black longline hoody from Matalan (£10). Splurge on a good supportive post natal bra – this Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra from Bravado Designs (£37) is the comfiest, softest nursing bra I’ve ever had and well worth the investment.
Maternity towels
Mattresses never felt great, so this time I went for Lil-Lets Maternity Pads (£6 for 30 pads) as they are thinner whilst still being designed with adequate padding for after birth. The wings mean they stay secure and they’re also extra long for additional protection.
My Expert Midwife products
If there’s one brand that is worth treating yourself too or receiving as a baby shower gift, it’s pretty much anything from the My Expert Midwife range. As far as packing a hospital bag goes overall I’m fairly no frills, but this range is where practicality meets pampering and having tried both the Soak for Bits in the bath while pregnant and Spritz to Uplift on my pillow in bed during the third trimester (the struggle is real) this range not only smells divine but comes with the reassurance that it was developed by midwives. Spritz for Bitz has rave reviews as a natural after birth care product that will help ease any stinging – I just wish it had existed when I had my other kids.
Water cooling spray mist
So many hospital bag videos on social media recommend taking a mini fan but what is much more effective is a cooling spray. Getting your birth partner, if you have one, to spray you at intervals is far more productive and refreshing than holding a fan yourself. It’s by far my number one must-have for usefulness in labour. I packed this one by Uriage (£10.99) and I know once I’ve had my baby it’ll also be useful if we ever get another heatwave.
Silver cups
This is a must for anyone intending to breastfeed. I found out about silver cups during my second pregnancy and turns out they’re a best kept secret. Why midwives don’t shout about them from the rooftops is beyond me as they can change your entire breastfeeding experience from the start and save you a lot of pain and suffering. Simply pop them on your nipples between feeds and let the natural healing properties of silver work their magic. Pippeta have some of the most affordable on the market (remember you’re paying for solid silver) at £25.99 for a pair of Regular Nip Cups . They also offer different sizes.
Flip flops
Slippers normally get mentioned on these types of lists but if we’re talking absolute essentials then I’d argue flip flops are more important. The first shower post-birth brings back memories of being doubled over and very fragile indeed. Hospital showers tend to be wet rooms so it’s important to have some grip on your feet when you’re at your most vulnerable. A pair of Havaianas will also be useful way beyond birth – I’ve had the same pair through all three children.
Sleepsuits for baby
Save that cute little designer three-piece outfit for your newborn for home and instead pack several cheap and easy all in ones as they make nappy changes so much easier and you don’t care when little one vomits on them 20 seconds later. I stocked up on sleepsuits with two-way zips like this 3-pack fo £17 from John Lewis as they’re so much easier than fiddly poppers.
Nappy bag essentials
As tempting as it might be to try and cram everything for you and baby into one bag, why not get into the habit of having a well stocked change bag for baby from day one? John Lewis has a good range of really stylish changing bags starting from £45. Or if like me you prefer a normal rucksack, I’ve always sworn by Fjällräven Classic Kånken backpacks for this purpose as they’re practical, durable and timeless. Then it’s just a case of filling it with nappies ( Aldi’s Mamia range is excellent and very affordable), barrier cream ( Bepanthen works and lasts for ages as a little goes a long way), a portable change mat , baby wipes, muslin cloths like this pack from H&M , bibs (these pure cotton Peter Rabbit dribble bibs are ideal) and a blanket ( cellular blankets like this one from Boots are the safest for babies). Finally pop a portable phone charger in and this bag is good to go for giving birth and beyond!
