What to Pack for the Hospital: A Lactation Consultant’s Guide for a Breastfeeding-Friendly Birth
As you prepare to welcome your baby, packing your hospital bag is an exciting milestone! While most hospital checklists cover the basics—like clothes, toiletries, and baby essentials—many don’t emphasize what’s helpful for breastfeeding success. As a lactation consultant, I want to share a breastfeeding-focused hospital bag checklist to ensure you’re well-prepared for those precious first moments with your newborn.
Essentials for a Breastfeeding-Friendly Birth
1. Comfortable Clothing for Skin-to-Skin Contact
The first hour after birth is crucial for breastfeeding success, and immediate skin-to-skin contact can help establish a strong start. Pack:
✅ A loose, front-opening robe or button-up top
✅ A soft nursing bra or bralette (optional—many moms prefer going without for easy access)
✅ Comfortable maternity pajamas
2. Nursing Pillow
While hospitals provide standard pillows, a nursing pillow (like the Boppy or My Brest Friend) can offer better support, especially for first-time moms. It helps position your baby at the right height for a comfortable latch.
3. Lanolin or Nipple Balm
Your nipples will be adjusting to frequent feedings. A lanolin-based or all-natural nipple balm can provide relief from tenderness, though a good latch is the best prevention!
4. Breastfeeding-Friendly Snacks & Drinks
Labor and postpartum can be exhausting, and keeping your energy up is key for breastfeeding. Bring:
🥜 Protein-packed snacks (nuts, granola bars, or trail mix)
🍎 Fresh or dried fruit for quick energy
💦 A large water bottle with a straw to stay hydrated while nursing
For Your Baby
✔ A Few Simple Outfits – Many hospitals provide baby clothes, but you may want soft, front-snap onesies for easy skin-to-skin access.
✔ Swaddle Blanket – Hospital blankets work fine, but bringing a soft muslin swaddle can be more comfortable.
✔ Going-Home Outfit – Choose a footed sleeper with built-in mittens to keep your baby warm and cozy.
💡 Skip the Pacifiers and Bottles (Unless Needed)
If you plan to exclusively breastfeed, most hospitals encourage avoiding pacifiers and artificial nipples in the early days to prevent nipple confusion. However, if medically necessary, your lactation consultant can guide you on alternative feeding methods.
Other Helpful Items
📱 A Phone Charger with a Long Cord – You'll be taking plenty of newborn photos and need easy access to your phone while feeding.
🧴 Unscented Lotion and Lip Balm – Hospitals are dry, and fragrances can be overwhelming for your newborn’s sensitive nose.
Final Thoughts
Packing thoughtfully can set you up for a smoother, more comfortable breastfeeding experience from the very beginning. Remember, the most important thing you need is support! If you have concerns about breastfeeding in the hospital, ask to see a lactation consultant right away—they’re there to help!
Are you packing your hospital bag? Let me know if you have any breastfeeding-related questions in the comments! 💕
The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this content does not establish a patient–provider or professional relationship between you and Thrive Lactation Center or Sarah Schooler, RN, BSN, IBCLC.
Always seek the advice of your physician, pediatrician, or qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition, breastfeeding, or your health. Never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you have read here.
