My Hospital Bag: Follow-up

I posted my Hospital Bag write-up last month that took into account the different checklists and recommendations from online and personal sources.

I thought I’d do a quick follow-up post to share what was useful, useless and very much needed.
Click here for my original post.  But below is my list of items that were packed and it’s usefulness after delivery noted in bold…as well as added items.

For me

• Nursing gown and robe – My hospital provided a very comfy robe.  I actually didn’t want to use my own robe from home after seeing how much blood there was post-delivery.  Trust me, if you had a natural delivery there will be alot of blood.  So bring something that you don’t mind getting soiled or giving up.
• Nursing tank top – I liked my nursing tank but I preferred the support of my nursing bra.  It was comfortable when visitors came by though.  Sometimes those robes don’t stay closed!  LOL
• Nursing bra – Very very comfortable!  I preferred the non-wire, sports bra style nursing bra.  It provided great support and looked like a tank top when worn under a robe.  
• Going home outfit (very comfy) – Again, go for something you don’t mind getting soiled.  I was still bleeding pretty heavily by the time I was discharged.  I’d like to add, bring flip-flops (maybe even in a larger size).  My feet were so swollen post-partum that they didn’t fit when we were discharged.  And they’re very useful when walking around your room or shower.  I say go for the $1 flip flops from Old Navy.  They’re cheap and comfy.
• Toiletry bag (shampoo/conditioner, chapstick/lip gloss, headbands, nipple cream, unscented lotion, brush) – I used everything in my toiletry bag.  By Day 2, I really did want to feel human again and a little lip gloss went a long way to making me feel pretty.  Don’t forget your toothbrush for you and your husband!  Thanks to my BFF Jen for having those ready to go for us!  Oh, and want some easy curls without the heat?  Try this!  I had my hair in a nice bun in the evenings and great curls the next day!  

Source: aspottedpony.com via Maryrose on Pinterest
• Underwear – old, disposable and comfortable.  I used the mesh ones from the hospital because they held the ice packs and pads in place really well.  But I did wear my own when we left the hospital.   It felt nice to feel human again.
• Slippers (thanks Noy!) – make sure they’re skid proof because the hospital floors can be slippery.  And remember, blood will likely get on it too.  
• Towel – Yes, bring your own because the ones they provide are itty bitty and not very comfortable on the skin.  Go for a dark color to hide any staining.  🙂
• Pillow – Didn’t need it for myself, but the husband used it on his very uncomfortable chair/bed.  I’ll add a blanket to that list too.  While a mom’s comfort is usually first and foremost, the husband deserves some comfort too.  
• Cell phone + charger – I’m always connected so this was a must for me.
• Kindle – I never even took it out of the bag.  I was so immersed in my little one or trying so hard to get to sleep