Packing your maternity bag: the essential checklist

When should I pack my maternity bag?

From the beginning of the seventh month of pregnancy, it's advisable to start preparing your layette. Not only does this allow you to be ready in case of an earlier-than-expected birth, but it's also a lovely time to imagine your baby in their first clothes.

What should I pack in my maternity bag for the baby?

• Clothing and baby clothes
• 6 to 8 pyjamas
• 6 to 8 bodysuits (cotton for winter, terry cloth for summer)
• 2 to 3 wool jackets
• 1 pair of mittens (to prevent baby from scratching themselves)
• 1 to 3 newborn hats
• 2 pairs of slippers or socks
• 1 to 2 baby sleeping bags
• 3 to 4 organic cotton gauze swaddles
• 1 soft, generously sized baby blanket or baby nest (ideal for going home)
• 1 or 2 pacifiers and a pacifier clip
  
  What size should I choose for a newborn?
  For a full-term baby, plan on buying size 1 month clothes. If there is a risk of premature birth, supplement with a few newborn-size items.
  
  

 Baby's bath

• A practical and safe changing table: choose our elegant PAGO wooden changing table
• 2 to 3 packs of newborn diapers
• Shampoo, gentle cleansing gel, moisturizing cream, saline solution
• Washable cotton squares
• Liniment
• Soft brush
• Thermometer
• Soft bath towels
  

Meals

If you choose infant formula:

• 2 to 4 large baby bottles
• 1 bottle brush
• At least 8 pacifiers
• 4 to 6 bibs

The room and the comfort

• A cozy nest for newborns: A baby bassinet, a wooden cradle without bars or a convertible co-sleeping crib
• 4 to 6 fitted sheets
• A cover
• A baby monitor
• A baby rocker suitable from birth
• A playmat on which to place a play gym.

The essentials we don't always think about

• Find a trusted pediatrician before birth
• Planning ahead for a nanny or childcare arrangement
• Attend a babywearing or baby massage workshop
• Having someone to listen (family, friend, midwife) to help you through the more difficult times
• Limit your time on Instagram: motherhood is not a competition
• Prepare some small dishes in advance (and freeze them) to anticipate the lack of time and energy!

Don't forget your maternity checklist

Each hospital provides an official list of items to bring (administrative documents, specific clothing, items for the mother, etc.). It is therefore important to combine this personalized checklist with your own to ensure you don't forget anything on the day of delivery.

✅ You now have all the information you need to prepare your complete maternity bag. The key is to anticipate what's essential, and trust yourself for the rest.

FAQ – Packing your maternity bag

**When to pack your maternity bag?**
It is advisable to prepare your maternity bag from the 7th month of pregnancy. This allows you to anticipate a premature birth and to be calm if the baby decides to arrive earlier than expected.

**What should I pack in my maternity bag?**
Pack nightgowns or pajamas suitable for breastfeeding, towels, comfortable underwear, postpartum hygiene products, a toiletry kit, a pair of slippers and your administrative documents (health insurance card, identity card, family record book…).

**What size clothes should I choose for my newborn baby?**
Size 1 month is generally suitable for babies born at term. However, if premature birth is possible, also plan for a few items in newborn size.

**What documents should I bring to the maternity ward?**
Maternity wards generally require: health insurance card, supplementary health insurance card, identity document, family record book (or declaration of early recognition), results of the latest medical examinations and pregnancy file.

**Should you follow the maternity checklist?**
Yes! Each facility provides an official checklist tailored to its organization (for example: number of bodysuits, sleep sacks, items for mom). It is therefore recommended to combine your personal preparation with this list so as not to forget anything.