What to Pack in Your Baby’s Hospital Bag: A Newborn Photographer + Mama of 4 Shares Her Must-Haves

Hey Mama!
It’s hospital prep time, and you’re probably wondering what on earth to put in that beautiful diaper bag of yours. I’ve been around babies quite a bit, and there are some clear winners—items that are mama-approved and even hospital staff-approved—to have ready for baby after delivery.

 

Who Am I to Be Sharing This?

Hi, I'm Sarah! 👋
I’m your host here today because:

• I have over 10 years of experience as a newborn photographer

• I’m a mama of four

• I’m part of the Wonderfully Made family, where we specialize in customizing cuteness for your little one

I’ve seen a lot of hospital rooms post-delivery and have walked hand-in-hand with many mamas through pregnancy and those beautiful—but blurry—newborn days.

Now I want to help you pack your hospital bag perfectly for baby’s big arrival.

 

Let’s Start with the Basics: What Will Baby Wear?

This is one of the most important things to plan! Here’s what to look for when choosing baby’s first outfits:

✅ WARM

They’ve been all cozied up in your womb—so warm layers will keep them peaceful and content.

✅ SOFT

Gentle, natural fabrics like cotton and bamboo are best. They reduce irritation on baby’s fresh, sensitive skin.

✅ EASY

Let’s be real: you will be delirious. So pick easy outfits—avoid too many snaps or fussy closures.

• All-in-ones are your best friend.

• Look for fold-over mittens and built-in cuffs, so you’re not constantly chasing lost socks or mittens.

• Gowns are amazing for quick diaper changes!

✅ CUSTOM

The oohs and ahhs from hospital staff when we pull out custom outfits? Unmatched.
They’re not just adorable—they make the moment feel extra special. I honestly wish I had prioritized this more with my own babies. A custom outfit for such a HUGE occasion just makes the day feel complete.
(And yes, we have plenty of options at Wonderfully Made 😉)

What the Hospital Usually Provides (And When You Might Want Your Own)

Here’s what most hospitals supply—and when you might want to bring alternatives:

➤ Diapers + Wipes

Hospitals typically offer Huggies or Pampers. If you're not brand-picky, no need to pack much.
But if you prefer a more natural option, bring a handful of chemical-free diapers and natural wipes. One pack is usually plenty for a short stay—and saves precious space in your bag.

➤ Receiving Blankets

Yes, they have them—but they’re often stiff and not-so-soft.
Bring 2–3 cozy swaddles that are stretchy and easy to use.
⚠️ Pro Tip: Some hospitals have blanket size restrictions, so call ahead. We offer custom swaddles that match our outfits—and trust me, they're worth it.

https://hellowonderfullymade.com

➤ Soaps + Toiletries

Most hospitals provide basic samples, but if you want natural or fragrance-free options, bring your own.
No need for full-size bottles—just use travel-size containers. This is especially important to protect baby’s sensitive skin for those early photos and snuggles.

Important Extras You’ll Be So Glad You Packed

Here’s the list you don’t want to skip—things that might not be essential, but make a huge difference:

💛 Pacifier 

If you might use one, research your options ahead of time.
Hospitals offer a standard version, but if you’re looking for:

• Breastfeeding-friendly

• Natural rubber

• Aesthetic cuteness...

...you’ll want to bring your own. (Bonus: they’re way cuter in photos!)

💛 Extra Clothes

Blowouts, spit-up... it happens. Bring backup outfits for baby (and maybe yourself!).

💛 Prep the Photo!

This one sounds silly, but TRUST ME—you’ll thank yourself later.
Plan a little setup for baby’s first photo:

• Special blanket

• Cute outfit

• Name sign or special items

Pack it all in one pouch so your support person can grab it easily.
Find natural light (open those curtains!) and take some sweet photos. Don’t forget videos of their little sounds and movements, too.

💛 Sound Machine, Music, or Diffuser

Hospitals are noisy and… well, smelly. Especially after they bring trays of food. These items help create a peaceful atmosphere for both mama and baby.

💛 Skin Balm or Ointment

Yes, the hospital has some—but I love using a thicker natural ointment for baby’s bum from the start. Choose something gentle and fragrance-free.

💛 Burp Cloths

Not just for spit-up! I used these more as a barrier between baby and visitors’ street clothes—helpful for keeping germs and strong detergents away from baby’s skin.

Going Home with Baby: What to Pack

Your going-home moment is one you’ll remember forever. Here’s how to prepare:

👜 Create a “Going Home Pouch”

Pack a small bag with:

• A clean diaper + wipes

• Extra outfit

• Burp cloth

• Room to add any hospital items you’re bringing home

🚗 Don’t Forget the Car Seat Cover

So helpful to shield baby from wind, germs, and prying hands as you leave the hospital.

👶 A Special Outfit

This is a big day! Pick something sweet and meaningful—you’ll cherish the photos forever.

🍼 A Pacifier on a Clip

Attach it to the car seat ahead of time—lifesaver during the drive home. It keeps the paci off the floor and easy to grab when needed.

Final Tip: Pack It Early

I recommend packing your hospital bag around the 30-week mark.
You’ll feel so much better knowing it’s ready to go, no matter what.
If you're ordering any custom or special items, double-check the turnaround time—or get them on your baby registry in time for your shower.

You’ve Got This, Mama 💕

I hope this guide helps you feel more prepared and confident as you get ready to meet your little one.
Remember, you don’t need to overpack—but packing smart makes all the difference.

Want help customizing your baby’s first outfit or blanket?
We’ve got beautiful, quality options designed to make this moment as special as it should be.

I summarized everything simply below for you too!

✅ Baby’s Hospital Bag Checklist

Created by Sarah – Mama of 4 + Newborn Photographer

 

👕 What Baby Will Wear

•  3–4 All-in-one outfits or gowns (soft + easy to change)

•  1–2 Special or custom outfits (for photos + going home)

•  Matching hats or bows

•  Optional: Custom swaddle blanket

 

🧴 Baby Care Essentials

•  10-15 Newborn or premie diapers (if using your own brand)

•  1 Pack of natural or fragrance-free wipes

•  Natural bum cream or ointment

•  Burp cloths (3-4)

•  Travel-size baby wash/shampoo (natural/fragrance-free if preferred)

•  Baby lotion (fragrance free or natural)

 

🛏️ Comfort & Environment

•  Soft swaddle blankets (2–3)

•  Sound machine / white noise

•  Essential oil diffuser (if allowed)

•  Playlist ready to go with a bluetooth speaker (optional)

 

🍼 Feeding & Soothing

•  Pacifier (1–2, plus one on a clip)

•  Nursing pillow (optional)

•  Bottles and formula  (if not breastfeeding)

 

📸 First Moments & Photos

•  Photo-ready outfit

•  Decorative name sign or announcement prop

•  Special swaddle or blanket for photos

•  Neutral background item (optional)

•  Phone/camera fully charged!

🚗 Going Home Items

•  Going-home outfit

•  Diaper + wipes in a small pouch

•  Car seat (pre-installed!)

•  Car seat cover

•  Pacifier clipped to car seat

•  Blanket for car ride (weather-appropriate)

 

📦 Optional Extras

• Journal or keepsake items

• Gift for siblings (optional)

• Thank you gifts or cards for staff

🎯 Pro Tips

✅ Pack around 30 weeks
✅ Check hospital size restrictions for blankets
✅ Call ahead for any hospital-specific rules
✅ Add special items to your registry early!