• Underpads (Chux) - at least 2 packages, the larger the better.
  These are used to absorb bodily fluids during and after the birth. They are useful for protecting your bed in the first days postpartum as well. Better to have too many than too few.
• Plastic mattress cover
• Plastic shower curtains/liners - at least 2. These are used to protect carpeting/flooring.
• Sterile 4" x 4" gauze pads - at least 25
• Unscented sanitary pads - at least one package
• Facial tissues - at least one box
• Disposable Washcloths - at least 24 count
• Paper towels - at least 3 rolls
• Trash bags - paper grocery bags lined with plastic bags work too
• Hydrogen peroxide - for potential stain removal
• Bulb syringe
• Perineal Bottle
• Perineal Cold Pads
• Flexible straws - makes drinking easier in labor
• Linens: (old & disposable, only buy new if you need)
  •  sheets for the bed - at least 2 sets
  •  flat sheets for covering shower curtains on floor
  •  washcloths - at least 6
  •  bath towels - at least 6
• For Baby:
  •  receiving blankets - at least 5
  •  baby socks
  •  soft cotton baby cap - at least one
  •  undershirts & sleepers
  •  newborn diapers
  •  baby wipes
  •  1 small bottle of olive oil - stops sticky meconium in the diaper area
  •  1 oral thermometer
  •  baby shampoo & body wash
  •  diaper cream
• Food:
  •  For labor - easily digestible foods - fruits, yogurt, soup, juices, honey
  •  After labor - more hearty foods.
  You won't be grocery shopping for at least a week following the birth, so be prepared and encourage friends/family to bring meals after baby is born.
• Be sure your home has:
  •  A vehicle that runs and a full tank of gas
  •  A functioning telephone
  •  Heat source to warm the birth room
• Optional:
  •  Hemorrhoid cream & wipes
  •  Saline nose drops

•  Please have your birth kit and other supplies purchased, prepared and ready by the 36th week home visit. Have everything in one place in the room you plan to give birth.