Maternity Preparation Checklist

Hospital Bag Checklist

For Mum

• Photo ID
• Loose, front‑opening nightwear
• Change of clothes and snacks for partner
• Nursing bras, breast pads, and nipple cream
• Heavy‑absorbency maternity pads or disposable underwear
• Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, shampoo, soap, deodorant, lip balm
• Glasses or contact lens case if needed
• Pain killers and any personal medication if needed
• Snacks, refillable drinks bottle
• Phone charger / spare battery pack
• TENS machine if planning to use one for pain relief
• Slippers, warm socks and a towel
• Entertainment (book, tablet, headphones etc.)
• Earplugs, relaxation items (essential oils, massage rollers etc.)
• Loose fitting change of clothes for going home

For Baby

• Red book provided by Health Visitor
• Coming‑home outfit
• Blanket, plus a baby hat and socks
• Approved infant car seat already installed in your vehicle

What Not to Pack

• Valuables (jewellery, large amounts of cash)
• Nappies, wipes, and basic baby supplies (provided by the hospital)

Birth and Naming Paperwork

• Register for Child Benefit and apply for Maternity/Paternity Allowances (29 weeks)
• Decide on baby's name
• Register the birth at Douglas Civil Registry within 42 days
• Order certified copies of the birth certificate at registration
• Register your newborn with a local GP for Isle of Man Health Service (5 day check-up)
• Arrange first health visitor (New Birth) visit at 10-14 days post‑delivery (should be arranged automatically)
• Apply for a passport for your baby if needed for travel (Morrison Photos for baby photos)

Nursery and Home Setup

• Approved crib, bassinet, or Moses basket with firm mattress and 2–4 fitted sheets
• Rocking chair in feeding area
• Baby monitor (audio or video) for safe sleep checks
• Changing station with pad, storage for nappies, wipes, and creams
• Room thermometer
• Nightlight
• Baby‑safe laundry detergent
• Blackout curtains
• Pram

First Week at Home Essentials

• Approved car seat for the journey home
• Newborn nappies (sizes NB and 1) and sensitive baby wipes / cotton wool
• Muslin cloths, bibs
• Cellular blankets
• Baby bathtub or basin for sponge baths
• Nappy rash cream and soft towels/washcloths
• Digital thermometer and nasal aspirator; saline drops
• Spare onesies, sleepers, socks, and scratch mittens (5–7 of each)
• Contact details for Manx Care midwifery team for post-birth support

Feeding Essentials

• Nursing pillow and comfortable chair for breastfeeding
• Breast pump and spare parts if expressing
• Breast milk storage bags or containers
• Vitamin D drops
• Bottles, nipples, and formula (if bottle‑feeding)
• Bottle brush and drying rack for cleaning feed equipment
• Contact information for Isle of Man Breastfeeding Support Group (01624 811837)

Sleeping Essentials

• Swaddles / blankets / sleep sacks for safe sleep
• White noise machine or app to soothe baby

Hygiene and Health Essentials

• Soft towels, washcloths, and a hairbrush
• Infant nail scissors or clippers
• First‑aid kit with infant‑appropriate supplies
• Baby‑safe detergent for laundry

Clothing Essentials

• Short‑ and long‑sleeved onesies (5–7 each)
• Sleepers or gowns with easy‑change zippers
• Socks or booties; scratch mittens
• Blankets for layering
• Seasonal outerwear (jacket, hat, cardigans, vests) as needed

Postpartum Support for Parents

• Postpartum pads and supportive underwear
• Peri bottle for perineal care
• Comfortable pillows and seating for recovery and feeding
• Pre‑prepared freezer meals and healthy snacks stocked
• Support network: partner, family, friends, or doula
• Water bottle within arm's reach
• Contact information for Isle of Man postnatal support services
• Schedule follow-up appointment with your midwife (should be arranged by Manx Care automatically)