ISSUE OF THE TILBEA HOSPITAL SCHOLARSHIP
So you are about to have a baby, actually have a baby!!
We're guessing by now you've probably perfected your maternity wardrobe (hope you'll take care of us), nailed the nursery design (thanks, Pinterest), spent a small fortune on pretty clothes, and exhausted yourself with all the ruthless nesting It's almost time to put your feet up and relax until the baby arrives... there's only one last job and I promise you... it's the one that EVERYONE puts off until the last minute - the hospital bag!
The hospital bag can seem like a huge and daunting task - it's a necessity, but an unknown amount. Everyone has one, but what's in it? What do you need? What does the baby need? We also had no idea when we were in his shoes. It was the only job that felt like a big practical step towards childbirth, and it brought reality crashing down on us! Motherhood was really happening.
The good news is that we are familiar with it now and are here to share our wisdom. After four jobs between us and all the tips and suggestions we've learned from other mothers, we think we're done with this hospital bag business. Then…
Personally, we always packed early... which we wanted our hospital bags to be ready for just in case. Wish maybe, but it's a good idea to be packed and ready to go in around 35 weeks, that way if you go into labor, or if you have to go to the hospital overnight, you can feel mentally prepared. for that and ready to go.
What's in your bag, we hear you cry! Well...below we've included our list of all the things we needed or found really useful. We hope this gives you good guidance in packing for the big day.
WHAT YOU HAVE FOR BABY
Happy Planet wipes - we found this easier than cotton, but cotton is also a great alternative to those really messy meconium diapers. These are fully biodegradableand you know we love sustainable options.
Diapers - Size 0 or 1 of the brand of your choice.
Sleeping suits - Size - Newborn or up to 1 month, better to have options if the baby is smaller or larger than expected. Suits with folding gloves are great for keeping your baby from scratching. I've heard that Tilbea's leopard print baby is really good for maximizing the cuteness on the journey home.
Blanket - Cell phones can be really great, as they ensure that there is always a flow of air. Check out Mamma Designs & the White Company
Muslins - big! We discovered this recently, they are great to use as blankets, washcloths, nursing blankets... the list goes on! We particularly like the Pattie & Co & Etta Loves brands.
Car Seat - Obviously essential as they don't allow you to leave the hospital without it, we both opted for iso repair options which we then clipped to our carts. But if you're going to be getting in and out of the car a lot, an option like the Doona car seat is great.
Baby Hat - Some hats can be good, they all look different and we have to maximize the cuteness factor.
MOM MUST HAVE
A hospital gown - our Eve robe is perfect for childbirth if you don't want to be in your birthday suit. Of course we would recommend our beautiful collection, but in fact you can give birth with it or wear it after delivery to look fabulous in the first shot. But as long as your selection is loose, light and comfortable, you will be the winner.
Leaving the hospital - wear something comfortable that makes you feel like the superhero you are after the baby arrives. Claire wore Matilda blue for home and I wore Joy - Blue for both boys, don't forget we have pink dresses too! Or if you want comfort all the way, then our Emma jumpsuit is the right solution.
2 Breastfeeding Bras - We recommend a soft underwired bra, we stock the Mumba Maya bra, but any brand would work or a short top, it just needs to be soft and comfortable.
Nipple equipment - nursing pads and nipple cream. We are a big fan of Lansinoh
Slippers - everyone needs a pair of slippers to pick up
Eye Mask - Space Masks - They are self-heating and AWESOME or if you want to match your robe then our Tilbea masks are great.
Hospital Notes and Delivery Plan - An Obvious Essential But Often Overlooked! Nicky dropped us off at the hospital only to have to go back right away as I left my notes at home! Also, make sure the other half of your child has been informed of your D-day delivery plan.
Lip Balm - Gas and Air dries you out! Lip balm is God sent - we recommend 8 hours of cream - smells good and works wonders
Wash Bag - Make up, Make Up wipes, paracetamol, shower gel, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, Baroque, hairbrush, hair bands for during labor.
Disposable Pants & Cushions - We recommend Tenna Lady disposable pants, they eliminate the need for pillows and panties and are a god send immediately after baby. Cushions - take your pick... just make sure they are thick!
Spritz Bits - or Spritz for you Bits from my expert midwife - I think this one speaks for itself
Slippers - essential for common bathing areas. Water-friendly Hawaiians are a good style to choose
A small bottle of bubbles - a no-brainer - this is to celebrate the baby's arrival after delivery and how amazing you are! You will definitely deserve this gift.
Snacks - Because everyone needs snacks, labor can be long and in these times your partner can't just come and go...so we suggest energy bars, chips and fruit and some bottles of water.
APPS / DEVICES
Contraction app or tens machine - The apps are really useful for timing between contractions if you're not using a tens machine. We both use the Elle Tens machine.
Hypno-birthing app or music - Make sure your hypno-birthing playlist is easily accessed and your birth partner knows how to access it
Phone Charger / Portable Charging Bank - You'll need your phone for many reasons, so don't forget your charger!
Kindle iPad loaded with women's movies - Top tip - read something breezy that makes you laugh - laugh and release oxytocin helps your labor progress!
Breastfeeding app - We both use BabyFeedTimer
Good luck moms. Remember, a hospital bag is a good cry, even if you're planning a home birth, everything will be instantly available in one place. One last tip - give your house keys to a friend / family member and give your partner's birth number. That way, when you forget something, you can call them back and get what you need!