Labor List Lets Make a List

BabiesDirect List of 
Items for the Birth of your Child

Mother's List of Items for Labor:

• Lip balm

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Gown and robe (if she prefers them to hospital clothes)

• Shower cap

• Plastic Container that can be frozen with ice or cold soft-drink can - for pressure and cold on lower back

• Warm socks and slippers

• Hair ties or "scrunchies"

• Tapes or CDs of favorite relaxing music, and tape or CD player

• Personal focal point (pictures of anything, flowers) to focus on during contractions

• Favorite juice, Popsicles, electrolyte-balanced beverage (such as Gatorade), or Rite-Aid Pediatric Electrolyte pops (this brand does NOT have aspartame, like Pedialyte Pops) in a cooler

• Fan (small, hand-held, battery operated is best)

• Pillows from home (use brightly colored cases to distinguish from your birth place's linens)

• Cornstarch or unscented oil for massage

Birth partner's list (if using one):

• Copy of the Birth Plan

• Watch with second hand

• Grooming supplies (toothbrush, breath freshener, deodorant, shaver)

• Food for snacks, such as sandwiches, fruit, cheese and crackers, beverages (consider beforehand what they will do to your breath)

• Sweater

• Change of clothes

• Swimsuit so you can accompany the mother in the shower

• Paper and pencil

• Reading materials, or handwork for slow times when the mother does not need your help

• Phone numbers of people to call during or after labor

• Change or credit card for pay phone

• Camera with film and batteries (still or video)

• Extra film or videotape

• Baby book for getting the footprints done by the nurse when she does the paperwork

For the mother's use during the postpartum period: (note:  this should be packed separately and brought into the hospital on the day of discharge - this does not belong in the labor room)

• Gowns that open in front for breastfeeding, (unless she prefers hospital gowns)

• Robe and slippers

• Cosmetics, toilet articles

• Witch Hazel for perineal care

• Tasty snack foods, such as fruit, nuts, cheese and crackers - her favorite treats

• Nursing bras

• Reading and writing materials, address book, birth announcements

• Money for incidentals

• Going-home clothing (you will still be about 5-6 months pregnant-looking)

• Waterproof pads for the car ride

For the baby: (note:  this should be packed separately and brought into the hospital on the day of discharge - this does not belong in the labor room)

• Car seat (this should be correctly installed in the car prior to the due date)

• Receiving blanket for baby

• Outside blanket, bunting, booties and cap for baby

• Going home outfit (nightgown or stretch suit)

• Undershirt

• Diapers