Packing the Perfect Hospital Bag: What to Wear During Labor and Delivery

When you’re getting ready to welcome your little bundle of joy into the world, packing your hospital bag can seem like a daunting task. What do you really need? How do you make sure you have everything you need? What do you pack to wear during labor and delivery?

These questions can be overwhelming and confusing when you’re already dealing with the emotional and physical demands of pregnancy. But don’t worry, we’re here to help make your hospital bag packing easy. In this article, we’ll discuss what to wear during labor and delivery and what else you need to pack in your hospital bag.

What to Wear During Labor and Delivery

When packing for the hospital, you want to make sure you’re prepared for anything. You’ll be in labor for hours, so you want to make sure you have clothing that is comfortable and easy to move in. Here are some ideas for what to wear during labor and delivery:

Hospital Gown

One of the most popular items to wear during labor and delivery is a hospital gown. Hospital gowns are designed to be comfortable and easy to move in. Plus, they are designed with hospital staff in mind and make it easier for them to monitor your progress during labor and delivery.

The only downside to hospital gowns is that they don’t always provide the best coverage. If you’re looking for more coverage, you may want to consider a birthing wrap.

Birthing Wrap

A birthing wrap is a great alternative to a hospital gown. It provides more coverage than a hospital gown, while still being comfortable and easy to move in. A birthing wrap also comes in a variety of styles and fabrics, so you can find one that fits your style and needs.

Oversized t-shirt

If you’re looking for something more casual, an oversized t-shirt can be a great option for labor and delivery. It’s comfortable, easy to move in, and provides a bit more coverage than a hospital gown. Plus, it’s something you can wear after you’ve given birth, so it’s a great multi-purpose item.

Oversized sweatpants

If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, an oversized pair of sweatpants can be a great option. They provide more coverage than a t-shirt, while still being comfortable and easy to move in. Plus, you can wear them after you’ve given birth, so it’s a great multi-purpose item.

What else should you pack in your hospital bag?

In addition to clothing for labor and delivery, there are a few other items you’ll want to make sure to pack in your hospital bag. Here are some items you should consider packing in your hospital bag:

Sleepwear/Pajamas

Make sure to include a pair of pajamas or sleepwear in your hospital bag. You'll most likely stay in the hospital for a few days, so bring something comfy to sleep in. Our Casual Pastel Pajamas would be an ideal choice thanks to their all-cotton construction and faint striped pattern.

Cardigan or Sweatpants

Even though you’ll likely be spending most of your time in your hospital gown, you may want to pack a cardigan or a pair of sweatpants in your hospital bag. This will give you the option to cover up if you’re feeling cold or if you want to feel more covered up.

Maternity Bras

It’s important to make sure you’re wearing a comfortable bra during labor and delivery. Maternity bras are particularly intended to give extra support when it is most needed. They are comparable to regular bras, but they provide more room for the breasts to expand during pregnancy by preventing sagging. These bras also feature clipping pads that are easy to access during breastfeeding, check our collection of maternity bras which will offer you all these benefits.

Postpartum Underwear

You’ll also want to make sure you pack postpartum underwear in your hospital bag. Postpartum underwear is designed to be comfortable and provide extra coverage and support during the postpartum period.

Sanitary Pads

Sanitary pads are one of several items you should have in your hospital bag to deal with any significant bleeding that may occur after the birth. The bleeding that happens after delivery may be considerably heavier than a typical menstruation that occurs every month, therefore you should keep a big supply of sanitary pads in a size larger than the normal size you use on hand to prevent severe bleeding.

Flip flops

Even in hospitals, you have to walk from room to room, so flip-flops with non-slip bottoms are necessary to avoid slipping accidents that can occur when walking on marble-lay flooring.

Tips for packing a hospital bag

There are a few tips and tricks you can use to make sure your hospital bag is packed and ready to go. Here are some tips for packing a hospital bag:

1. Make sure to start packing your hospital bag at least a week before your due date in case you go into labor early.
2. Pack items in layers so you can easily access the items you need. For example, layer your clothing items on top, followed by items like toiletries and sanitary pads.
3. Pack items in multiple sizes so you can easily find something that fits. For example, pack multiple sizes of bras, underwear, and t-shirts.
4. Make sure to pack a few extra items in case you need them. For example, pack a few extra pairs of underwear, socks, and sanitary pads.
5. Pack items that will make you feel comfortable and relaxed. For example, pack a few items that will help you relax, like a book or music.

Conclusion

Packing for the hospital might appear to be a difficult chore, but it does not have to be. With these suggestions and ideas for what to wear during labor and delivery, you'll be able to pack a hospital bag that will make you feel comfortable and prepared for whatever comes your way. Just remember to start packing early and to organize everything in your suitcase. With the perfect hospital bag packed, you’ll be sure to have everything you need for labor and delivery.