Whether it's your first child or third, a c-section or vaginal birth, here are some Larken-approved hospital bag must haves:
1. Hospital Bag
Before you gather all of your hospital bag items, you’ll need somewhere to put them. We recommend a duffle size with lots of pockets for efficient storage. Hey, you could even bring a suitcase! Here’s a cute hospital bag for mom from Calpak.
2. Nursing Bra
Founded by moms, Larken knows that comfortable and easy to use nursing bras with support are essential. Especially for new moms planning to breastfeed, nursing bras are top of the hospital bag checklist. Shop our bestselling Larken X nursing bra for a comfortable and hands-free experience. With stretch fabric and no irritating underwire, your new favorite Larken bras will help ease the transition to breastfeeding. Plus, it’s the only nursing and pumping bra you can sleep in!
Stocking up on other breastfeeding and nursing essentials? This bundle with the Larken X nursing bra, haakaa manual pump, and motherlove nipple cream is a must-have.
3. Snacks
Rumor has it that hospital food is not the greatest. Bring your favorite easy snacks such as granola bars, fruit, and chips. We know you have your go-to Trader Joe's picks! Also remember a reusable water bottle and electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated throughout your hospital stay.
4. Clothes
This one may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised! Bring a few extra outfits in case of mishaps or an extended stay. Babies love to spit up at the most inconvenient times. And don’t forget a comfortable outfit for mom and baby to wear on the way home! The Larken Signature Tank is soft and so convenient, just pull down the stretchy fabric for easy breastfeeding access. Your baby bump doesn’t disappear right away, so maternity clothes are the way to go.
5. Toiletries
With so many things on your mind, it can be easy to forget the daily essentials. Include your hairbrush, chapstick, shampoo and conditioner, and toothbrush. A towel from home is nice too - hospital towels are typically not super cozy. Deodorant is always a necessity, and check out our Motherlove Nipple Cream for painful and cracked nipples.
6. Comfort Items
Make sure to bring any items that will help make your hospital room feel a bit closer to home. Some of our favorites: robes, cozy socks or slippers (with sticky bottoms for the slipper hospital floors!), and your favorite pillow. Pro tip: bring your pillow in a colorful pillowcase so you don’t confuse it with the hospital pillows when you leave! If you don’t already have warm favorites, we love this maternity robe from Monica + Andy. These cozy mom essentials will help you get some much needed rest.
It’s generally recommended to prepare your hospital bag for mom and baby by 36 or 37 weeks, but you can never be too prepared! At Larken, we love being part of your memorable moments.