Labour Bag Checklist
Here are some suggestions for what to pack in your labour bag. Choose some or all of them to ensure everything runs smoothly. Touch the items to tick them off on this page or you can also print off and add any extra items at the end. The list will help make sure your are fully prepared for your new arrival.
~ Tap to clear the list ~
FOR THE BABY
Muslin squares
Baby comforter or teddy
Sleep suits or other baby outfits
Vests
Scratch mittens and socks
Hat
Cardigan
Coat (if weather is cold)
Baby shawl or blanket
Cotton wool
Nappy bags
Bibs
Formula and bottles (if not breastfeeding)
Baby bath foam/shampoo
Baby towel
Going home outfit
FOR MUM TO BE
Maternity hand held records
Food (e.g. high energy bars, easy to eat snacks or sandwiches)
Drinks (high energy drinks and bottled water)
Dressing gown
Slippers (or other footwear e.g. flip flops)
Pyjamas or other night wear
Outfit for giving birth in e.g. night dress or large t-shirt
Labour TENS machine
Relaxation CD or relaxing music (CD players often supplied or ipod)
Book or magazine
Massage oil (you may wish your birthing partner to pamper you whilst you are in labour!)
Swimwear if using a birthing pool
Maternity sanitary pads
Breast pads
Nipple cream
Nursing bra
Knickers (old or disposable are best)
Towel
Normal clothes for day wear and going home (don't expect to get into your pre-maternity wardrobe just yet!)
Socks
Wash bag items (shampoo, shower gel, hair brush, hair bands, shower cap, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, razor etc)
Sponge or flannel
Cosmetics (mirror, moisturiser, make-up, lip-balm, face wash, cleanser, perfume, deodorant etc.)
Tissues
Tea tree oil or lavender oil (for the bath, to help soothe tender areas and tears)
Witch hazel (can be dabbed onto stitches and tears to aid healing)
FOR BIRTHING PARTNER
Food and drink
Cash and small change (e.g. for phone or car park)
Mobile phone (to let everyone know your news)
Mobile phone spare battery or charger
Phone numbers/emails for people you may wish to contact
Car seat and blanket for going home
Camera and spare batteries/memory card
Swimwear if using a birthing pool
Book or magazine (it could be a long wait)
OTHER
Anti-bacterial hand gel
Sterilising surface wipes
Travel change mat or disposable change mats
Change bag