It can be difficult to know what to pack for your baby's birth, particularly if this is your first time. It’s impossible to know if you may end up staying in the hospital for a few nights or if you may only be there for one night. 

It can be difficult to know what to pack for your baby's birth, particularly if this is your first time. It’s impossible to know if you may end up staying in the hospital for a few nights or if you may only be there for one night. 
The third trimester can feel like an eternity, but your baby will soon be on the way, so it is important to be prepared and have your hospital bag ready to go. More often than not, parents tend to overpack for the hospital trip, especially on a first baby. To make sure you don’t overdo it, check out our handy checklist:
The essential clothes you need to pack for baby:
  • 8 long sleeved babygrows
  • 8 Vests
  • 8 baby bibs
  • A Cardigan
  • A Hat
  • Pre-washed baby towel
  • 2 baby blankets
  • 2 Cot sheets (optional)
Now's the time to gather together all the essentials you'll need during your labour and birth and for after your baby is born. Even if you're not planning a section or even a hospital birth, you may need to go in unexpectedly, so try to have a bag packed by the time you are about 36 weeks pregnant.
Hospitals vary in their policies about what you are allowed to bring with you when you have your baby. You may want to take a few items from home, such as your own pillows, to make you feel more comfortable. But be aware that hospitals can be short on space. If they are you could just bring a pillowcase instead.
If you want, pack three bags: one for labour and the hours immediately after your baby is born, and another for your stay on the ward. A third your partner could bring into you if you end up staying longer than expected.
If you're driving to the hospital you could leave the second bag in the car. If you have a straightforward birth, you may leave hospital on the same day and not need the second or third bag at all.
Should I wash babies clothes before they wear them?
You should definitely wash baby's clothes, blankets and other washable items that will come in contact with their skin. It's not necessary to do it before they are born, but it's a good idea to do it before they will wear them. 
Why? Baby's soft skin hasn't toughened up yet. Her skin is sensitive and the finish that's put on new clothes to make them look cute enough for you to snatch up can irritate baby’s virgin skin.
But it's not enough to simply load all of baby's gear in the washer and toss in your favourite detergent. You should be sure to use a gentle, baby-friendly detergent-one that doesn't include dyes or perfumes (scents) since those can irritate the skin too. Whether you use a baby-specific detergent or a gentle everyday one that omits these potential irritants is up to you—either should do the trick. Some mums double-rinse new baby clothes. When drying the tiny little bits, skip the fabric softener and dryer sheets too.
Written by Laura Doyle staff writer at FFHQ who also blogs at www.lovelifeandlittleones.com.

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