When preparing for a baby, there’s a lot going through your mind and it’s so easy to let some things slide. For any parent - performance, comfort and safety for your baby are non-negotiable. For those of you who also like to take extra special care of the planet your little one will eventually inherit as well, we’ve put together a hospital bag check list with an environmentally conscious lens just for you, so there’s one less thing for you to think about.

The most sustainable option is to use what you have already wherever you can and where it makes sense. In case you need to purchase new items, we’ve listed our favourite eco-friendly and natural brands.

For mum:

1. If you’re planning to breastfeed:

• Button down PJs or Night Gown.
  We love Bhumi.com.au for their sustainable luxury sleepwear. 
• Maternity bras (3 is a recommended start)
  Try Hotmilk Lingerie for beautiful sustainable choices.
• Sore Nipple Compress
  Multi-mam works wonders with a plant-based formula that supports the natural healing process. 
• Nipple Balm 
  Nipple Balm – GAIA Skin Naturals Australia. With organic and natural ingredients, no need to rinse after use.

2. Bath Robe. We love this Waffle Bathrobe - Made From Bamboo | ettitude

3. Lounge wear. Especially if you’ve had a C-Section, loose and comfy clothes are great. Try Organic Basics – Vege Threads. 

4. Thongs or slippers – easy slip in and out while carrying a baby! Hopefully you have something already! 

5. High waisted undies in a size up. Le Buns Full Cut cotton briefs  are ethical and eco friendly. 

6. Maternity Pads from TOM Organic are soft and luxurious with organic cotton. We’re not siblings anymore but we’ll always be family! 

7. Ice packs. The hospital may have these but will always be handy for reducing swelling. Try these from Body ICE. 

8. Don’t forget your usual toiletries – toothbrush/paste, hairbrush, soap, shampoo. You may not need it all but it will be helpful to have your normal go-tos.  

9. Lollies & water bottle. If you don’t already have something, we love frank green. 

10. Abdominal Support Garment – especially after a C-Section. 

Belly Bandit® is the top post-pregnancy shape wear collection
recommended by physicians, nurses, hospitals, doulas, fitness experts and of course, new moms.

 

For baby:
The list for baby is relatively easy. You need to remember clothes – think soft, natural and organic wherever possible – and nappy changing. See below for the list and our recommended brands.

1. Clothes
For all clothes touching baby’s skin we love organic natural and bamboo materials - great for baby and the planet. Our favourites are Purebaby, Boody Baby, Banabae, Hello Fred, Nature Baby.

• Singlets
• Onesies
• Socks
• Swaddle wraps
• Blanket
• Going home outfit

The list for baby is relatively easy. You need to remember clothes – think soft, natural and organic wherever possible – and nappy changing. See below for the list and our recommended brands.

 

2. Nappy Changing

• Wipes or Cotton Pads/Balls
  

  Many hospitals will provide wipes so do check what they offer. 

  Organic cotton and warm water are perfect for a newborn baby’s sensitive skin. 

  Though, the convenience of a disposable baby wipe when managing a newborn is undeniable. tooshies plastic-free Wipes are made with organic ingredients and a textured plant-based cloth for a superior clean. These wipes are 100% biodegradable and can even be composted at home, breaking down is as little as 60 days. 

• Newborn nappies
  

  Some hospitals will provide nappies, but you may want to bring your own.

  Reusable nappies are great but can be a lot for new parents. For the convenience of disposable with far less environmental impact than conventional nappies, tooshies eco nappies are your answer. Made with organic bamboo and a 100% biodegradable back sheet, these nappies are better for baby and the planet.
  

 

For Support Partner:
Depending on your hospital, your partner may stay with you or just be able to visit. Either way, here is a handy list of items they likely already have, to bring along.

1. Travel pillow – this infinity pillow will be very handy for naps in any position or location
2. Snacks & frank green water bottle 
3. Chargers
4. Laptop / tablet
5. Headphones
6. Change of clothes 
7. Notebook – for recording all the important baby information you receive
8. Usual toiletries (if staying)
9. Documents such as birthing plan. 

 

Last year we posted a detailed blog outlining the essentials for any hospital bag. Read it here for all tips and tricks including some bonus content on preparing your home for a newborn. 

Lastly, a great tip from our resident midwife Erin Gregory:

“Have one bag for you, and one for your baby. Or one side of a suitcase for you, and one for your baby. Place an outfit for you and your baby at the top of your bag so your support person, partner or midwife doesn’t need to pull the whole bag apart looking for things.”