Be prepared for when baby is on the way. When baby decides to enter the world, you need to be ready to go.
Our handy checklist of birth day must-haves, suggestions and a few nice-to-haves will ensure you’re all set for when baby is on the way.
start sooner rather than later
By 37 weeks, you should have made more of your purchases so that you can enjoy the last few weeks of pregnancy. This is especially important for your hospital bag because you never know when you might need it.
pack that bag
Try to have your bag packed by around week 36 of your pregnancy. Knowing you’ve got everything you need for your baby’s birth will make you feel more relaxed. Check with your hospital or birthing centre to see what they have available for your use while in labour.
Use this checklist to ensure you have all you need:
For labour
- A comfortable, loose-fitting nightie or T-shirt that you can wear during labour
- A water bottle and some sweets
- Any snacks or drinks you or your partner might like
- Lip balm
- Hairbrush
- Warm socks (your feet may get very cold during labour)
- Massage equipment and any oils or creams
- Heat pack
- Camera and video camera (ask before you start taking video footage)
- Music to play during labour.
Find out what you need to know about pregnancy-related medical expenses.
For hospital
Some hospitals and birth centres supply all of the baby’s needs while you are there. Check what you need to add. Remember to pack these essentials for your stay in hospital:
- 3 easy-to-open nightclothes (for breastfeeding)
- 3 nursing bras, nipple cream and breast pads
- Dressing gown and slippers
- Toiletries and make-up kit
- Plenty of underwear, perhaps even some disposable
- 2–3 packs of maternity sanitary pads
- Day clothes and an outfit for leaving the hospital
- An outfit for baby when leaving the hospital: babygro, socks or booties, cardigan, beanie if cold, and a blanket for in the car.
welcome home, little one
Budget and shop around for these essentials first. Besides nappies, nappy cream and all the other everyday necessities, here are the top 10 must-have baby items:
- Pram/stroller/travel system
- Car seat
- Cot or bassinet
- Baby carrier
- Baby monitor
- First-aid kit
- Breast pump
- Nursing pillow
- Baby/nappy bag
- Bath
- Changing table or compactum.
Read our article on becoming a first-time mother.
nappies, nappies and more nappies
If you find nappies on sale, buy them regardless of their size – even if you are still pregnant. You can never have too many nappies! Also consider using environmentally friendly nappies.
don’t break the bank
The best products don’t necessarily need to cost a small fortune. Must-have items do not need to be expensive, top-of-the-range or even new. Very good second-hand, barely worn items are often advertised for sale. Compare, shop around, ask for recommendations and deals on social media and join groups that meet both face-to-face and in online forums to find the guidance and support you need.
