Food and drinks
- Nutritious, easy-to-digest food for the laboring parent and support people.
- Herbal tea approved in your care plan, broth, pure fruit juice, coconut water, electrolyte drinks, and plenty of fresh water.
Basic household supplies
- One package of baby wipes and one roll of paper towels.
- Postpartum pads or adult protective underwear.
- A working digital thermometer for parent and baby.
- Four soft towels or baby blankets for immediate warmth.
- One extra set of clean sheets. Older sheets are fine because staining is possible.
Optional comfort items
- A slow cooker for warm washcloths or compresses, used according to the birth team's instructions.
- Soft, indirect lighting such as string lights or dimmable lamps.
- A favorite playlist, pillows, a robe, lip balm, and easy snacks for the support team.
For a planned water birth
- A tarp or waterproof floor covering beneath and around the pool.
- An air pump or compressor that fits the pool valves.
- A new drinking-water-safe hose and the correct faucet adapter.
- A new clean aquarium-style net and several additional towels.