When you’re heading to the hospital or birth center, less is more—as long as the “less” is exactly what you’ll use. Here’s a clean, practical checklist for a smooth stay, focused on the items new parents tell us they’re most grateful to have.
For feeding & leaks
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Nursing pads
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Nighttime: included in the Day & Night 4‑pack (8‑layer absorbency)
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Backup / easy changes: Plant‑Based Disposable 60‑count
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Burp cloths: At least 2–3 100% cotton burp cloths for let‑downs, burps, and swaddling improvisation.
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Nursing tank or bra: Comfortable, supportive, easy to clip down.
Clothes & comfort
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2 soft nursing bras, 2 nursing tanks
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Loose pajama set or robe
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Comfy socks + slippers
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Going‑home outfit for you (think soft leggings + long tee or a loose dress)
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Going‑home onesie + hat for baby
Toiletries & tech
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Travel‑size basics: face wash, moisturizer, lip balm, hair ties
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Toothbrush/toothpaste, mini dry shampoo
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Phone + long charging cable
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Lightweight water bottle (easy to sip one‑handed)
Paperwork & essentials
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ID, insurance card
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Pediatrician information (if chosen)
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Birth plan preferences (optional)
Nice‑to‑haves (but not musts)
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Nipple balm (test after nursing so it doesn’t coat pads)
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Roll of soft tissue or wipes
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Eye mask/earplugs
What the hospital usually provides
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Mesh underwear, maxi pads, basic diapers, swaddles, and receiving blankets. Ask your nurse what’s included so you don’t overpack.
How many nursing pads to pack
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Plan for one fresh pair every 3–4 hours while awake. For a 1–2 night stay, bring 4–6 pairs of washable day pads and 1–2 night pads, plus a small handful of disposables for easy swaps if you’re very leaky.
Quick nursing‑pad routine in the hospital
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Start with day pads while you’re up and about; switch to night pads before you try to sleep.
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If your milk comes in strongly, keep disposables handy for fast changes.
After discharge
Restock or round out your home kit:
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Everyday set: Day & Night 4‑pack
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Extra daytime pairs: 4‑count 100% cotton pads
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Auto‑reorder backup: Plant‑Based Disposable 60‑count
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Mess control: Cotton burp cloths
Pack light. Pack smart. Then let the rest go—you’ve got a baby to meet.