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What to bring to hospital (maternity)

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Maternity services

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At the Lindo Wing, we are here to make your journey as smooth and supported as possible. That’s why we have put together a simple hospital bag checklist below and available to download here with everything you will need—for you, your baby and your support person. We have also included a few tips on what you can leave at home, so packing feels easy and stress-free.

 

Most parents find it helpful to pack their bags around 36 weeks of pregnancy, just in case baby decides to arrive early. However, please be assured that we can provide most of the items from this list.

Your hospital bag 

  • maternity notes 
  • 2- 3 sets of comfortable nightwear (a front opening option is ideal for skin to skin or breastfeeding) 
  • dressing gown 
  • bedroom slippers
  • loose and comfortable clothing for your stay and going home
  • maternity bra, breast pads and feeding pillow
  • warm socks - feet often get cold during labour
  • sanitary towels and disposable underwear (we will have plenty available, but you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer)
  • toiletries (including flannel, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, hairband, lip balm, cooling spray)
  • any prescribed medication, including inhalers

For baby:

  • clothes for intended length of stay, appropriate for weather conditions (baby vests, baby sleep suits, hats)
  • muslin squares 
  • scratch mittens/socks 
  • blanket or shawl 
  • nappies (we provide these but you're welcome to bring your own if you prefer) 
  • formula milk - if you choose to bottle feed. Please buy the starter pack of ready-made liquid formula, if you plan to bottle feed, as we do not have facilities for making up powdered milk. Within the ward we offer SMA, Aptamil and Cow & Gate. If you wish to use another brand, please bring this with you.
  • car seat (please ensure you can correctly fit this in advance) 

For your support person:

  • clothes/nightwear for intended length of stay
  • toiletries

Please note partners meals and drinks are included

Please feel free to bring anything that will make you feel at ease, whether it’s a favourite book, or music, including a portable speaker to create the perfect atmosphere.

 

We recommend bringing your favourite snacks and drinks to keep you energised during labour or while recovering after the birth.

 

While we advise leaving valuables at home, we do provide a room safe to keep your belongings secure.

 

We look forward to welcoming you at the Lindo Wing, where every detail is thoroughly designed to make you feel reassured, confident and able focus on creating beautiful memories as you are welcome your baby into the world.

 

If you have any questions, please contact us on +44 (0)20 3312 2535.