Delivery, what do we actually need?
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You mainly need things for you. Hospital provides everything for baby, just take a going home outfit for him/her. And take everything in the drawers home, they'll throw it away if you don't. For you, you need Pillow and blanket to help you feel at home Water flask Snacks Nursing gown Toothbrush Toothpaste Brush Deoderant Anything you use in the shower Headphones Phone charger- with a long cord Slippers Nursing cover up Going home outfit for you- (something loose in case of C-Section ) Fan (if desired, I took one and never used it) Speaker- listen to music while in labor (I also took one and never used it but wish I had) A lot of people suggest adult diapers but I had no problem with the mesh underwear the hospital provides. Oh and one thing I wish I would have taken was baby nail clippers/ an electric filer or at least mittens. My baby came out with daggers and he kept scratching himself for the 2 days we were in the hospital.
I think the difference in advice is usually down to location, in the UK we have to take absolutely everything the hospital don't provide a thing.
@Jennifer did you bring any other clothes besides delivery/nursing gowns and a going home outfit? I keep seeing lists that recommend "comfy clothes", but I'm like what does that mean because I figure I'll be in the nursing gown for the most part until we go home. I am planning to bring a sweater, but would you recommend anything else on that end?
I totally get the confusion! Honestly, you don’t need as much as some lists say. The hospital usually provides basics like diapers, wipes, swaddles, and even a nasal aspirator. What I found essential were comfy clothes for you and baby, a car seat (installed before), and a going-home outfit. I also kept Babies Magic Tea Gripe Water on hand for any tummy issues that came up early on—it was a lifesaver. Keep it simple, you’ll have time to grab anything else later!