The maternity suitcase: the essentials for welcoming baby with peace of mind

When you're expecting a baby, there's so much to think about that it's easy to feel overwhelmed! And let's not even talk about that famous hospital bag.

You might have found yourself a bit lost facing that endless list of little things to prepare. So... how do you distinguish the essential from the superfluous and make sure you don't forget anything for the big day?

Here's a guide to preparing a hospital bag that's both practical and reassuring, with ideal outfits for your little one's first days and the essentials that will make their arrival even sweeter.

D-Day: Keep essentials within reach

Future parents, know that the secret to a well-thought-out hospital bag lies in simplicity. No need to overpack! The first hours with baby should primarily focus on comfort and softness, and for that, nothing beats practical, easy-to-put-on outfits that are especially adapted to their delicate skin.

Newborn Hospital Bag: Complete list for mom and baby

Here's a detailed list to serenely prepare your hospital bag, covering the essential needs for both baby and mom:

For Baby:

1. Clothing
- 5 bodysuits (our Boom bodysuit is perfect thanks to its long sleeves and snaps at the collar)
- 5 cotton, velour, or natural material pajamas depending on the season (opt for models with snaps in front or on the side)
- 2 pairs of socks and/or booties
- 1 cotton hat
- 2 cardigans/vests in cashmere or soft wool for times when baby needs more warmth
- 1 warm romper for leaving the maternity ward

2. Care products
- Micellar cleansing water (to use for body and face)
- A pack of cotton squares for changing
- Physiological saline solution and sterile compresses to clean baby's face and eyes
- A diaper cream to prevent redness

3. Accessories and textiles
- 2 to 3 fabric bibs
- A large cotton swaddle for spit-up (it can later be placed at the bottom of the bassinet)
- A pacifier, if you plan to use one (there are newborn packs with different models to see what baby prefers)
- A small soft blanket
- 1 baby bath cape
- 1 sleeping bag to keep baby warm in their crib, which can also be used once at home (TOG 2 or 3)

For Mom:

1. Clothing and underwear
- 2 to 3 comfortable nightgowns or pajamas (consider choosing models suitable for breastfeeding if you are breastfeeding)
- 1 long t-shirt for the delivery room (not all maternity wards require a gown)
- 1 warm cardigan, especially if the maternity ward is air-conditioned or in winter
- 4 to 5 cotton panties and disposable mesh panties, particularly practical for the first few days after childbirth
- 2 nursing bras and nursing pads
- Comfortable clothes for the day and your discharge (avoid tight clothing)

2. Toiletries
- Toiletries (shampoo, shower gel with a neutral and physiological pH, toothbrush, toothpaste)
- Stretch mark cream or oil used during your pregnancy
- An intimate shower spray to relieve sensitive areas (perineum and C-section scar)
- Lip balm (the hospital air can be drying)
- Special postpartum sanitary pads (flows can be heavier after childbirth)
- A gel or cream for any pain (some maternity wards recommend ice packs)

3. Comfort and well-being accessories
- Nursing pillow (practical for breastfeeding or propping up in bed for cuddles with baby)
- Slippers or sandals (depending on your preferences and the season)
- A mist spray to refresh yourself in the delivery room or bedroom
- Dark bath towel and face towel
- Bath mat (to feel at home)

4. Important documents
- Pregnancy medical file (maternity booklet, analysis results, and ultrasounds)
- ID card, health insurance card, mutual insurance, and other administrative documents
- Family record book if you have one, or anticipated recognition for unmarried couples

5. Miscellaneous
- Long phone or tablet charger (outlets are not necessarily close to the bed)
- Snacks (cereal bars, dried fruit)
- A book, magazine, or great series (to keep busy between care and any visits)
- A night light (very useful at night when changing baby without overstimulating them or putting them to sleep if it has a white noise function)

Baby's going-home outfit: warmth and comfort above all

Baby's going-home outfit is an element not to be overlooked. For this, a romper is an ideal choice, whatever the season. It should be both comfortable, warm, and easy to put on to avoid the stress of complicated dressing.

Keep in mind that baby's first days are punctuated by numerous outfit changes, whether for feedings, naps, or cuddles. Choose practical and easy-to-put-on clothes so as not to over-handle your newborn.

Prefer natural materials that will respect your baby's delicate skin and adapt to all seasons. For example, the Atelier Badaboum cotton bodysuit is one of the basics to absolutely slip into the hospital bag. It keeps baby warm, while being incredibly soft.

The cotton bodysuit is particularly ideal for nights in the maternity ward, as it regulates baby's body temperature, preventing them from getting too hot or too cold. This natural material is also very practical in summer as it limits perspiration.

Preparing the hospital bag is an emotional step, symbolizing the last moments before finally meeting your baby. Each carefully chosen item contributes to creating a cocoon of softness and comfort for their first days. By gathering the essentials for your newborn's well-being, you also ensure precious serenity to fully experience these unique moments.

Take the time to put this bag together with care because these small attentions – cozy clothes, practical accessories, and suitable care – will make the first moments with baby even more unforgettable.

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