• Sleepwear. Nightgowns are convenient and comfortable to wear. You might want to wear a hospital gown the first 24 hours, however, because you may be bleeding significantly and won't want to risk staining your own clothes.



• Socks. A few pairs of socks can really make a difference, since few labor and delivery rooms are carpeted. Chances are you'll prefer your own to the pairs your hospital supplies.



• Maternity or large-sized underwear. The underwear you wore while pregnant should serve you well. While your waist size will decrease dramatically after birth, don't expect to fit back into your pre-pregnancy underwear just yet.



• Bras. Two or three comfortable nursing bras, or soft, exercise-type bras if you plan to bottle-feed your baby.



• Toiletries, including shampoo, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion, deodorant, hairbrush, and make-up.



• Extra-absorbent sanitary pads. Many hospitals provide only the kind that require a belt, so bring ones that you'll find more comfortable.



• Glasses. Even if you normally wear contacts, you may have your hands full and not want to deal with the hassle of caring for them.



• Book or magazine.



• Comfortable clothes. Bring loose-fitting clothes to wear home. Some women are more comfortable wearing everyday clothes than sleepwear during the hospital stay as well.



• Baby clothes. Consider packing an outfit that covers your infant's feet. At least bring socks; a newborn's hands and feet tend to get cold regardless of the temperature. And don't forget a baby hat.



• Baby blanket, to wrap your baby in for the trip home.



• Diapers. Although the hospital nursery will undoubtedly supply them during your stay, it doesn't hurt to bring a few extras with you.



• Car seat. Whatever you do, don't forget this one! Hospitals these days won't let a baby leave without one. And get your installation checked by a professional if possible before you have the baby.

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