Baby Hospital Bag Checklist for India: What to Pack for Your Newborn
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Packing the hospital bag is one of the big milestones of pregnancy. While most of the list is for mum, the baby needs a few things too, for the hospital stay and the ride home. This checklist covers what to pack for your newborn, so nothing is forgotten when the day comes.
A quick note: hospitals differ. Some provide baby items and some have rules about what you can bring, so ask your hospital for its list and check with your doctor. Use this checklist as a starting point.
When to pack
Many parents pack the bag a few weeks before the due date, so everything is ready if baby arrives early. Keep it in one place and tell your partner or family where it is.
Baby's hospital bag checklist
Clothes
- 2-3 jablas: a front-open jabla is the easiest first outfit, because nothing has to go over baby's head. Choose a Flip Jabla, Knot Jabla or Button Jabla in newborn size. Read our guide to the types of jabla.
- 1 pair of mittens and booties: our muslin mittens and booties keep tiny hands and feet cosy.
- A going-home outfit: pick something comfortable and soft that is easy to put on.
Wraps and bath
- 1-2 swaddles: a 100x100 cm muslin swaddle keeps baby snug for the ride home. Ask your doctor about safe swaddling.
- 1 hooded towel: a soft muslin hooded towel for the first bath.
Feeding and cleaning
- 2-3 burp cloths: muslin burp cloths handle spit-ups and spills.
- A few reusable wipes: soft muslin wipes for gentle cleaning.
- Bibs: an optional set of bibs.
Nappies
- Pack newborn-size nappies. Many parents use disposables in hospital, and some prefer reusable muslin nappies at home.
Other items
- A light blanket, in case the hospital is cool or air-conditioned
- A cap or head covering if your family prefers it
- A car seat, if you will use one, installed before the day
- Documents and any baby items your hospital asks for
The easy option: a muslin hospital kit
If you would rather not shop for each item, our Baby Hospital Bag Kit is a 9-piece organic muslin set for the ride home: a flip jabla, mittens and booties, a hooded towel, two burp cloths, three wipes and a swaddle, at ₹1,699. It is also a useful gift for expecting parents. See our guide to muslin baby shower gifts.
Wash everything first
Wash new baby clothes and cloths before the first wear, using a mild detergent. Follow the care label on each item.
Frequently asked questions
What should I pack for my newborn in the hospital?
The basics are a few jablas or soft outfits, a swaddle, mittens and booties, nappies, burp cloths, wipes and a going-home outfit. Check your hospital's list too.
How many baby clothes do I need for the hospital?
Two or three outfits is usually enough for a short stay. Pack an extra in case of spit-ups or leaks.
Is muslin good for a newborn in hospital?
Muslin is soft and breathable, so many parents choose it for a newborn's first outfits and wraps.
What is a hospital home arrival kit?
It is a set of baby essentials for the journey home from hospital and the first days after.
Free shipping across India on orders above ₹999.