When do you need to buy your baby clothes and prepare the hospital bag?

[Sanlare]

When is best time to be ready for labour and what do you need to prepare?

[EJThompson2]

I would suggest having your hospital bag packed from 36 weeks pregnant as you can go into labour any time after 37 weeks... I packed mine with things like pj's, outfit for home, 3 baby grows, 3 vests, blankets, big underwear, maternity pads, a towel, spare clothes for me (incase of any leaks!), nappies, wipes and then added last minute bits like snacks, toothbrush etc just before we went to the birthing centre. Honestly I didn't use most of the stuff I packed. I gave birth in the pool and then got a shower and dressed afterwards and was home within 4 hours so we didn't need spare clothes or even a birthing nightie! Baby stayed in same baby grow until we got home and the hospital provided a towel for me. I would definitely pack snacks as after birth I was so so hungry, they did provide tea and toast but I needed sugar! Lol

[EJThompson2 in reply to EJThompson2]

Also, some people like to pack make up and toiletries however the midwife suggested I didn't use any soaps in the shower as it could hurt down below and I was so tired I didn't care about my make up and just wanted to get clean and snuggle my new baby! 😊. I used my make up wipes as I had make up on when I went into labour and at the end it was all over the place! Lol