7 Things Not to Forget in Your Hospital Bag

This question was always on my mind, especially once I hit 30 weeks. I knew for baby girl I’d bring a coming home outfit, three long onesie pajamas, hand mittens and some blankets (which ended up being perfect). However i didn’t know what to pack for me! I was anxious I wouldn’t be prepared and not have my bag packed by the time Reese came. I was nervous she’d come early and we’d have to run to the hospital with a bag we threw together in 5 minutes. Luckily this wasn’t the case. I had some wonderful friends that had recommendations about what to bring, and they calmed me down a lot. So I thought I’d share what I’m glad I brought and things I could have left at home.

1. The best thing we brought was actually my husband’s idea. We brought a small essential oil diffuser and diffused lavender the whole time! During labor and recovery. It not only helped me relax, but also it was wonderful to smell while we were recovering. Sure beats hospital smell! Not to mention every nurse that came in said “Wow it smells so great in here!” Trust me, do it.
2. Next, bring a couple comfortably house dresses to wear for recovery. I wore the hospital gown for delivery, I didn’t want get my own clothes all messy, but they definitely are not comfortable enough to wear during your stay! Bringing a house dress helped me feel comfortable and as cute as I could feel after delivering a baby. I recommend these or these. They’re a little bit more on the pricey side BUT soooo soft and I still wear mine almost every day around the house.
3. Your own PILLOW. You guys, I thought this was so unnecessary when my friend recommended it to me but I grabbed it anyways when we were on our way out the door to the hospital. Best. Decision. Ever. You feel a touch of home having it with you, plus.. who doesn’t want to sleep with their own pillow? Especially when you’re at the hospital in an uncomfortable bed feeling pretty much like you just got hit by a truck (more or less ;))
4. Lotion!! Bring some of your favorite lotion. When you finally get to shower (which is one of the most glorious moments) nothing feels better than lathering up in your favorite smelling lotion. It helps you relax and to feel semi like yourself. I love this one 
5. These next two items are postpartum LIFE SAVORS. Tucks witch hazel pads (Tucks Medicated Cooling Pads 100 Pads Per Pack (Pack of 2) will save you for that burning down there, it feels glorrrious.
6. I also brought my own large granny panties because they worked better than the hospital ones. (Depends Maximum Absorbency Underwear for Women, Small/Medium, 19 ct)
7. Lastly I would recommend bringing your own snacks!! I brought granola bars and crackers that I would eat in the middle of the night when I would wake up for the millionth night feeding sesh because I was STARVING.

These top 7 items were things I was so glad I brought! I hope it helps you!

-Paige

{Paige is a first time mama to a two month old baby girl. She currently lives in Austin, Texas and loves doing anything outdoors, play tennis, hike, swim, and run. She loves to meet new mamas and would love to connect with you! You can find her over on instagram at @Paigegabrielle}