What You’ll Need Your First Week Home With Baby:

Hint: You don’t need a lot!

Zip Up Swaddles

These were a game changer for our family. One, swaddling is SO much harder than it looks. We received so many of the muslin blankets and even took a bunch of the blankets from the hospital and could never get it tight enough. She was always able to get her arms out, which made me a little paranoid that she would be able to break free all together. They also make velcro swaddles which I have seen so many people rave about, but we found them to be so noisy. When we had middle of the night wakes for feeds and diaper changes, we always wanted to keep her drowsy and the second we would pull open the velcro, she was wide awake! They also make zip swaddles where the babe can have their hands up near their face if that is more comfortable for them!

High Waisted Underwear 

These are something I didn't even know I needed, but man, were they the absolute best! I think whether you had a c-section or a vaginal birth these will be awesome once you transition out of your diaper. You want something that will make you feel super secure and sort of sucked in since those first few days home your body just feels so different. I found the best ones on prime and ordered them in bulk and they’ve been a favorite of mine even four months later!

A HUGE water bottle

I found myself so incredibly thirsty pretty much hours after I had the baby, I am sure the IV and medication all played a part in that. I had plans to bring my big water bottle to the hospital, but it was left behind in our little rush. But, coming home it was so helpful. You will not want to get up more than you need too and trust me, you will be thirsty! Also, if you are nursing that will make you even more thirsty.

Nursing Pads

The best item! I am going to suggest getting the washable ones for two reasons, one, the environment, and two, it’ll save you money and who doesn’t love that. If you or aren’t breastfeeding these are going to be helpful because you are almost guaranteed to leak within that first week home and these are just a little extra layer so it doesn’t get everywhere. They of course are not foolproof, but still super helpful. 

FOOD

Last, but absolutely not least, food! Or some plan for food! Whether you want to do takeout, have people bring you things, just make sure you have a plan. This is not something I thought about too much and really wish I did. Because of nursing I was STARVING, and we did not have too much. Anyone who did come over brought us take out, but all I wanted was a good well balanced meal, so I wish I had made some things beforehand and froze them. Also since your body is in quite a bit of pain you will not want to get up and make a meal!