When it’s time to head to the hospital, having everything packed and ready makes all the difference. That’s where a thoughtful checklist with the rightpostpartum products comes in.
Whether you’re weeks away or counting down the days, knowing exactly what to bring will ease your mind and help you focus on what truly matters: welcoming your baby with comfort and confidence.
From labor and delivery must-haves to postpartum products, baby essentials, and support person needs, we’ve rounded up everything you need to make your delivery day as smooth and supportive as possible.
Let’s fill your bag with care, calm, and a whole lot of love.
Essentials for mom during labor
Essentials
During labor, packing the right essentials can make all the difference. First, make sure you have your ID, insurance card, and any hospital paperwork handy so check-in goes smoothly. If you’ve created abirth plan, tuck in a couple of printed copies to share with your care team.
Comfort
For comfort, lip balm is a must — hospitals can be dry, and breathing through contractions can leave lips chapped quickly. Hair ties or a headband help keep hair off your face when things get intense. A facial mist or cooling spray can feel like magic between contractions.
Slip on a pair of grippy socks or bring a labor gown or robe from home — something soft and familiar can ground you in the moment. A reusable water bottle is great to have close by, especially if your hospital allows sipping during labor.
Emotional support
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of emotional support. Pack affirmation cards, a calming playlist, or even a photo of someone who gives you strength. These small touches can remind you that you’re safe, strong, and fully capable of bringing your baby into the world.
Post-birth comfort items for mom
After delivery, your body is in full-on healing mode, and you deserve to feel cared for every step of the way. Those first few days after birth are tender, beautiful, and messy, which is why having the right comfort items on hand can make such a difference.
Nursing bras and tanks
Start with soft, stretchynursing bras or tanks that make feeding your baby a little easier. High-waisted or disposable postpartum underwear will be your go-to. Trust us, they’re not glamorous, but they’re a lifesaver. Pair them with extra-absorbent pads, witch hazel cooling liners, and aperi bottle to keep things fresh and supported during bathroom visits.
Breastfeeding essentials
Soothe sore nipples with a gentle balm, and tuck some breast pads into your bra for added comfort. Cozyloungewear or maternity pajamas will help you feel more like yourself while being practical for those frequent check-ins and feedings. Check out ournew mom care package for breastfeeding.
Touches of home
Don’t forget the little touches of home — a soft blanket, favorite pillow, or even slippers to help you feel grounded and calm. And if you want everything bundled up with love, a postpartum care kit takes the guesswork out of packing. Every mama deserves to feel wrapped in care, which starts with honoring your healing.
Essentials for your baby
Your baby may be tiny, but those first few days come with big needs! Thankfully, you don’t need to pack the whole nursery. A few thoughtful essentials go a long way in keeping your little one cozy, safe, and snuggled up.
Start with a coming-home outfit — something soft, simple, and weather-appropriate. Add a newborn hat and mittens to keep your baby warm and prevent those tiny nails from scratching their delicate skin. A couple of swaddle or receiving blankets are perfect for wrapping your baby up and providing extra warmth or a soft spot to lay them down.
The hospital usually provides diapers and wipes, but it’s not a bad idea to bring a few extras if you have a preferred brand. You’ll also want to bring your baby’s pediatrician's information for hospital discharge paperwork.
If you have room, optional extras like a pacifier, a white noise machine, or a soft toy (for photos or keepsake purposes) are sweet touches.
This isn’t about overpacking. It’s about ensuring your baby feels warm, safe, and loved. And when you pair these basics with your loving touch, that little bundle has everything they need.
Items for your support person or partner
Your support person plays a huge role during labor and delivery, and while their focus will be on you, a few essentials of their own will help them stay grounded, helpful, and present.
First up: a change of clothes. Labor can be long (and unpredictable), so they’ll be glad to have something clean and comfy. Add in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant, and face wipes to help them feel refreshed after an overnight stay or a long day in the delivery room.
Don’t forget a phone charger — ideally with an extra-long cord so they can stay connected without unplugging from your side. Snacks and a reusable water bottle are key, too. Having something quick and nourishing on hand means they can stay fueled without leaving the room.
If they stay overnight, a pillow and a light blanket can make all the difference. Hospital chairs aren’t known for their comfort, but a little coziness goes a long way.
Lastly, pack a short list of people to update after the baby arrives. That way, they won’t be fumbling through your contacts in the excitement of the moment.
Packing tips for a smooth experience
Packing for labor and delivery doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It can actually be empowering. With a little planning and a few simple tips, you’ll feel calm, confident, and ready to welcome your baby with everything you need right by your side.
Start early
Try to have your hospital bag packed by 36–37 weeks so you're not scrambling when the time comes. This will give you peace of mind and extra time to add last-minute items.
Use packing cubes or zip pouches
This will keep things organized. Label yourpacking cubes for labor, one for postpartum, one for baby, and one for your support person. That way, you won’t be digging through everything to find socks or chapstick in the middle of a contraction.
Pack light but intentionally
The hospital provides many of the basics, like diapers, wipes, mesh underwear, and postpartum pads, so focus on personal comfort items and anything that brings you joy or relief.
Have a checklist
Tape it to the top of your bag with any last-minute things you’ll need to grab, like your phone charger, favorite pillow, or glasses. This also makes it easy for your partner to help without second-guessing.
Double up on key items
Pack extras of must-haves like chargers, hair ties, or snacks. Labor can be long, and you’ll be glad you planned ahead.
And finally, leave a little room in your bag. You might head home with gifts, supplies, or a few extras from the hospital.
Packing with care means you’re bringing comfort, calm, and confidence into your birth experience.
What not to pack: Skip these to save space
When you're packing your hospital bag, it's easy to go overboard. After all, you want to feel prepared for anything. But in reality, less is more. The hospital will already have many essentials waiting for you, and packing light can help you feel more organized, less stressed, and totally focused on the baby and recovery.
Leave the bulky extras at home
You don’t need to bring towels, pillows, or heavy blankets. The hospital has them, and while they might not be spa quality, they’re clean and ready. If you want a comforting touch of home, pack your favorite pillowcase instead.
Don’t overpack outfits
You’ll mostly be in a hospital gown or cozy loungewear, and your baby will be swaddled. A couple of simple outfits for you and your baby, including something comfy to go home in, is more than enough. No need to pack a whole wardrobe.
Avoid pre-pregnancy clothes
Your body is doing big, beautiful healing work. Stick to soft, stretchy, postpartum-friendly outfits that offer comfort and grace.
Leave the valuables behind
Sentimental jewelry, large amounts of cash, or anything you’d hate to misplace are best left safely at home.
Packaging only what you truly need creates more space for calm, confidence, and care. Trust your instincts. You already know what matters most.
Sunflower Motherhood
As you check off your hospital bag essentials, don’t forget the most comforting item of all — a thoughtfully curated new mom care package from Sunflower Motherhood.
Whether you're packing for yourself or someone you love, our bundles are filled with postpartum must-haves designed to soothe, support, and uplift during this life-changing moment.
From cozy socks and nipple balm to affirmation cards and recovery tools, each new mom care package is a warm hug for the new mama's heart. Treat yourself or surprise a mom-to-be with the gift of comfort, because every mama deserves to feel seen, supported, and loved.
Shop our website today!
