Maternity bag: the essential checklist for mom and baby

There maternity suitcase is a key moment in the preparations for the birth: between impatience and the fear of forgetting, it deserves a clear and reassuring checklist. At Mistricotine, we envision it as a true A maternity layette , where each piece – a cardigan, blanket, or hat – becomes a tender gesture for mother and baby. Knitted in France from naturally soft merino wool, our essentials are perfect for the maternity bag, transforming the wait into a serene experience.

For a stress-free preparation, start around the ^7th month and finalize on the ^8th . Here is a maternity and childbirth checklist detailed, designed like a true maternity kit , to be checked off step by step.

When should I pack my maternity bag?

Plan ahead from the third trimester: gradually gather the essentials (for mom & baby), slip in a printed checklist in the suitcase, and keep a small "last minute" kit (phone, charger, papers).

Maternity checklist – For the mom

Clothing and nightwear

• 2 loose-fitting nightgowns or T-shirts that are easy to put on
• 1 long cardigan or small bathrobe to cover up
• 1 pair of socks + comfortable slippers
• 1 comfortable outfit for the outing (appropriate for the season)

Toiletries and specific care products

• Towels and washcloths
• pH neutral liquid soap / intimate hygiene
• Maternity sanitary napkins (large size / "Night")
• Disposable mesh briefs or cotton briefs
• Lip mist, lip moisturizer, minimalist beauty kit

Mom's stay

• Comfortable daytime clothes (bring a change of clothes)
• Reading, music, headphones (small maternity kit relaxation)

Maternity list – For baby

First outfit for newborns (D-Day)

• 1 merino wool bra (front/crossover opening)
• 1 bodysuit + 1 pyjama set (soft cotton)
• 1 cap and 1 pair of slippers
• 1 knitted blanket (breathable merino wool)

Baby's stay (daily clothes)

• 2 hats
• 3 wool bras (Merino wool recommended in all seasons)
• 4 to 5 pyjamas
• 4 to 5 cotton bodysuits
• 3 pairs of slippers or socks
• 1 newborn sleeping bag
• 1 wool blanket (for sleeping and going out)
• Several bibs
• 1 or 2 pacifiers (depending on your choice)
• 1 soft cuddly toy

Infant care and hygiene

• Oleo-calcareous liniment (diaper change & massage)
• Gentle liquid bath soap
• Cotton squares
• Bath thermometer
• Baby thermometer with flexible tip
• Hairbrush / soft comb
• Saline solution in single-dose vials
• 1 pack of newborn nappies (3-5 kg) (if not provided, check with the maternity ward)
• 3 baby terry towels

For leaving the maternity ward

• A warm garment (regardless of the season)
• 1 merino wool baby blanket
• 1 cap and slippers

For breastfeeding mothers

• 2 nursing bras (late pregnancy size)
• Nursing pads or breast shells
• Nightgown with front opening / Pyjama jacket / Oversized T-shirt
• Nipple care cream (lanolin recommended)

Trick : For baby, choose breathable materials (e.g.: merino wool ) for optimal thermal regulation during breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact.

Administrative documents to take away

Your medical documents

• Blood type card
• Medical records: ultrasounds, blood/urine tests
• Radiopelvimetry (if you have one), other radiology procedures
• Maternity record
• Orders in progress
• Any useful documents related to pregnancy

For the civil registry declaration

• Family record book (if you have one)
• Early recognition (if carried out)
• Parents' identity cards/passports

For your care

• Official photo ID
• Health Insurance Card
• Health insurance card
• Family allowance number

Practical tips for a light (and well-thought-out) suitcase

• Don't overload: your partner or family can bring spares.
• Choose clothes that they don't go through the head (front/cross opening) for the first few days.
• Rely on the last ultrasound for sizes: Birth & 1 month if baby is small/standard, 1 month & 3 months if large.
• Organize the suitcase into pouches: "mom", "baby", "care", "documents".

Complete your maternity bag with Mistricotine

At Mistricotine, we imagine... baby gift sets Refined items that naturally complement the maternity bag. Merino wool vests, hats, booties, and blankets knitted in France slip easily into the bag to envelop little ones in softness and security. To further your preparations, also discover our Made in France baby registry and our Premature clothing suitable for even the most fragile babies.

Wishing you a happy pregnancy and smooth preparations!