The Ultimate Guide to Packing Your Baby Delivery Bag

happy couple during their canton OH maternity photoshoot

It’s the most exciting time of your life. You’re about to become a mother!

The first thing you need to do is ask yourself what you want for your delivery bag. As a newborn photographer in Canton, OH, I’ve heard all of the horror stories about mamas just not knowing what to pack! So, I wanted to help ease that stress for you and provide a quick guide of what to pack in your baby delivery bag for your trip to the Cleveland Clinic.

canton, OH maternity photographer captures gorgeous mama

What to Pack in Your Cleveland Clinic Delivery Bag: Advice from Your Canton OH Newborn Photographer

The birth of your baby is a magical event, but it can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what you need to bring along with you. Here’s a list of everything you’ll want to pack!

The Necessities

  • Your phone and carger
  • Your birth plan
  • Insurance card
  • Drivers license/ID

The Bonus Items

  • An extra pillow or cushion:  Let’s be honest, sometimes hospital pillows just aren’t it. They’re flat, lifeless, definitely not cozy. During the delivery and after, you might want to put your head (or back) on something soft with a little more cushion and comfort. Packing an extra pillow can help!
  • Extra clothes and shoes: Although you’ll be in a hospital gown, you’ll of course want to put on normal clothes before you head home! Make sure you bring an outfit to wear on your way out with your little one. Remember, this isn’t a fashion show. Bring something that you will be comfortable in. Something baggy and soft!
  • Slippers or flip-flops: It will be easier to walk around if you have slippers or flip-flops on hand at all times. They’re easy to slip on and off, and if you choose slippers, they’re soft and comfy! This goes for before the baby is born and after!
  • Wipes: These will come in handy when changing diapers; they’re also good for cleaning off dirty hands or faces during feedings.
  • Hairties and clips: The last thing you want is to have your hair flopping all over the place!
  • Hygeine essentials: Make sure you bring the essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, a comb, etc.
  • Anything to make you feel refreshed: After delivery, you may just want to freshen up a bit. Bring some dry shampoo, deoderant, lip balm, even face wash!
  • Blankets: Whether it’s winter or summertime, babies get cold easily so make sure you have plenty of blankets on hand! Consider bringing along some swaddling blankets as well they’ll help keep your little one warm while sleeping.
  • An outift for your little one: Many hospitals will provide a swaddle for you to bring your little one home in. However, it’s nice to bring a cute and comfy outfit for them yourself!
Beautiful mama in blue dress captures by Akron OH newborn photographer

When Should I Start Preparing My Cleveland Clinic Bag: Advice from Your Canton, OH Newborn Photographer

You should start packing your hospital bag about two to four weeks before you go into labor. This will give you enough time to get everything together and ensure that you have everything that you need to make your stay in the hospital as comfortable as possible. Plus, babies sometimes have a plan of their own that they forgot to fill you in on! So it’s best to be prepared a little bit early!

You may also want to include some snacks and drinks for yourself and any medications that you will need during labor or after delivery.

Some Final Tid Bits on What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag!

adorable newborn captured by Cleveland newborn photographer

You’re almost there! With the help of this Cleveland Clinic guide, you’ll have everything you need to make your delivery day as smooth as possible. 

Also, remember: if something doesn’t work out the way you planned, don’t stress about it too much! Babies are super resilient, and so are their moms! Make sure you schedule your newborn photography session with me so that we can capture your little bundle of joy during one of their cutest stages!

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