What should be in my maternity bag?

It may feel like a daunting task getting things ready for your baby’s arrival, but we’re here to help you.

Getting your maternity bag packed and prepared will help you feel more at ease during the anticipation for the big day. Here’s what should be in your maternity bag, some helpful tips and how Milton can help you.

When should I pack my maternity bag?

It’s completely up to you when to pack your maternity bag, however it’s always best to feel all set! Of course, you will have a due date but we all know that your baby may arrive sooner than expected. We recommend packing it during your third trimester, so you can rest assured that you’ll be ready to go when you need to.

How to pack my maternity bag

Instead of having one maternity bag, it’s a good idea to have one bag for you, both during and after labour, and then another packed for the baby after birth. Another tip is to segment these bags into sections or even using small bags containing specific items to help organise them better e.g. all newborn clothes in one section, all your clothes in another, toiletries in another, etc. Not only will this help organisation, but if your birth partner is not in the room when you need something, you can easily direct a staff member to find what you’re looking for.

What should I include in my maternity bag?

It’s important to remember that you need to pack for yourself, for both during labour and after, as well as the baby once they have been born. As well as this, you may not be able to go straight home after the birth, so you need to be prepared for longer stays too. Here’s a guide on what to pack in your maternity bag.

What to pack in my maternity bag for during labour

This packing list is to ensure that you are as comfortable as you can be when you are in labour.

Maternity notes & birth plan

You’ll feel much more comfortable if you know you’ve got easy access to all the information the healthcare staff need to know. Even if they have been previously discussed, it’s recommended to print out your birth plan and maternity notes for them to refer to in case they have any questions.

Fluffy socks, slippers & dressing gown

What’s more comfortable than some fluffy pieces of clothing? Socks, slippers and dressing gowns should be included in your maternity bag so you are warm, cosy and comfortable. You can even wear the dressing gown and slippers when you’re pacing around during labour or afterwards.

Flip flops

Flip flops are great option for slipping on and off as you walk around the hospital ward, your room or for wearing in the shower. You may not feel comfortable using a hospital shower, but if it helps you feel more content, flip flops are the ideal solution. Also, remember to bring travel size products with you to cleanse with along with other toiletries like a hairbrush, deodorant, cotton pads, toothbrush and toothpaste.

Water mist & lip balm

No matter whether it’s summer or winter, you will most likely get warm during labour so make sure to pack a water mist spray to keep your face and body cool. This will also help keep you hydrated and lip balm will stop you from getting chapped lips too.

Pillow, eye mask & earplugs

Even though the hospital will provide you with pillows, it’s always nice to have your home comforts with you. Bring along your favourite pillow as well as an eye mask and ear plugs to help you get as much rest and sleep as you can during and after labour on the ward. Other home comforts include some things to distract you and keep you entertained such as music, a small device to stream films or tv programmes with headphones, or books and magazines.

What to pack in my maternity bag for after labour

Comfort is key after labour too, as your body will go through a lot of strain and stress. No matter whether you’re staying in hospital for a while afterwards or travelling straight home, this list will help make sure you feel restful and settled.

Maternity pads

Again, the hospital may provide these but it’s always better to be prepared! They are required in case you bleed after the birth and may need changing on a regular basis, so it’s a good idea to make sure you’ve got good stock of them with you. Another tip is to add lavender or tea tree oil drops to the pad to help with the healing and keep yourself clean and calm.

Loose fitting clothes

Whether this is a set of pjs, loungewear or whatever you feel most comfortable in, loose fitting clothes will keep any pressure off your body. Try and choose some bottoms with an elasticated or drawstring waist and a top with a front opening if you plan to breastfeed.

Breast pads & nursing bras

In addition to clothes, you will need to bring some underwear with you too that are comfortable and large enough for breast pads. Nursing bras are a good idea as these will be well-fitting and accommodate the breast pads in case of any leakage if you decide to breastfeed. It’s recommended to bring your own breast pads, so you make sure there are enough for you in case the hospital doesn’t provide them.

Phone charger & glasses

Although you may not be using your phone during this time, having a phone charger handy is practical in case of emergencies or just to keep close family and friends up to date. If you have a spare pair of glasses or contact solution, it’s a good idea to pack these ahead of time too just in case you forget!

Snacks & drinks

Always check with the health staff first but packing snacks and drinks for after labour is a nice treat for you to look forward to. Labour can last a long time and you will need to replenish your energy afterwards, so by packing your favourite foods, it will give you comfort as well as help you recover.

What to pack in my maternity bag for my baby

Now we’ve created two packing lists for you, here’s one you need for your baby which can be packed in a separate bag to ease the load and feel more organised.

Different sized baby clothes

Remember to pack different sizes of newborn clothes to make sure they fit your baby and different options to suit different weather conditions, so long sleeved, short sleeved, etc. Other accessories should be packed too, like socks, hats, swaddles, blankets and mittens so they stay warm but are also protected from their newborn nails.

Nappies

On average, newborn babies go through 8 – 12 nappies per day, so you’ll need to be prepared for this. Don’t bring too many as they are quite bulky and you’ll have your other bags with you too but try to bring a day’s worth so you know you’re covered.

Antibacterial products

To make sure you maintain a healthy environment around you, both before and after your baby is born, remember to pack some antibacterial products. 2 convenient products to add to your maternity bag are some antibacterial surface wipes for quick clean ups and an antibacterial hand sanitiser for you, your partner and family members visiting you to meet your baby.

Water-based wipes

As we know, a baby’s skin is extremely sensitive, so it’s important to bring water-based wipes with you as they are much gentler. You will need these when you change your newborn’s nappy and for any messes you want to clean up, like dribbles.

Bottles & formula

If you plan on formula feeding, you will need to bring pre-made milk with you; it is recommended you bring around 6 bottles with you. Remember to sterilise your baby bottles first before making up the formula using Milton’s anti-bacterial tablets or solution. These are handy products you can bring along to the hospital with you to sterilise while you’re staying.

Milton has been used by hospitals for over 70 years, so is trusted by midwives and parents alike. If you plan on breastfeeding but need formula, the hospital will provide this for you.

Muslin squares

Muslin squares of all sizes are another good thing to pack in your maternity bag. Smaller ones to help clean and wind your baby, and bigger ones for swaddling and draping over your shoulder.

Tips for packing your maternity bag

• Pack 2 separate bags; one for during labour and one for after
• Create sections within the bag to easily find what you need
• Don’t pack too many clothes for yourself to save space
• Leave jewellery at home to keep it safe
• Don’t pack too much food or anything consumable that doesn’t travel well

At Milton, we are here to support your journey from pregnancy through to parenthood. We have been trusted by midwives for over 70 years and protecting what’s precious to you. Our sterilising and hygiene ranges keep your little ones safe from germs throughout your home, so make sure you stock up before you go into labour.

Shop the Milton range at Woolworths, Coles, Chemist Warehouse, BIG W, Baby Bunting, IGA and other major supermarkets.