How to Pack Your Hospital Bag Without Stress or Forgetting Anything
Putting together your baby registry is one of the most exciting steps in preparing for your baby’s arrival. Between the essentials you can’t forget, the quantities you need to plan for, and the best timing, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all these decisions.
At 23 Mai Paris, we support expectant mothers on this journey. This comprehensive guide helps you put together your first baby wardrobe with confidence, without stress or forgetting anything, while also taking into account your own needs as a new mom.
To get ready, check out our article Preparing for Breastfeeding Before the Baby Is Born.
When should you start putting together the baby layette?
Timing is key to avoiding last-minute rushes while maintaining flexibility.
The Perfect Schedule
| Month of pregnancy | What to do |
|---|---|
| 5th–6th month | Make a list, identify brands, set a budget |
| 7th month | Buy the essentials (onesies, pajamas, sleep sacks) |
| 8th month | Complete your look with accessories and skincare products |
| 9th month | Final touches, hospital bag, last-minute adjustments |
Why start in the seventh month?
| Advantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Security | If the baby arrives early, you're ready |
| Serenity | No last-minute stress |
| Budget | Option to pay in installments |
| Energy | You're still in good shape for the races |
| Sale | Time to look for bargains |
What to Avoid
| Common mistake | Why is this a problem? |
|---|---|
| Buy everything in the 9th month | Fatigue, stress, forgetfulness |
| Buying too early (3rd–4th month) | You don't know the sex or the exact season yet |
| Waiting for the birth | Postpartum exhaustion |
Choose a layette appropriate for the season of birth
The time of year your baby is born has a significant impact on what you’ll need to pack.
Winter baby (November through February)
| Type of clothing | Quantity | Specific Features |
|---|---|---|
| Long-sleeve bodysuits | 8–10 | Heavyweight cotton or velvet |
| Velvet pajamas | 6–8 | With built-in legs |
| Vests/cardigans | 3–4 | Soft wool or fleece |
| Hats | 2–3 | Essentials |
| Slippers/socks | 4–5 pairs | Lined or wool |
| Onesie/baby sleeper | 1 | For outings |
| Warm sleeping bag | 2 | TOG 2.5 to 3.5 |
Spring Baby (March to May)
| Type of clothing | Quantity | Specific Features |
|---|---|---|
| Long-sleeve bodysuits | 5–6 | Classic cotton |
| Short-sleeved bodysuits | 4–5 | For mild days |
| Cotton pajamas | 6–8 | Mid-season |
| Lightweight vests | 2–3 | Stackable |
| Lightweight hats | 1-2 | For cool outings |
| Mid-season sleeping bag | 2 | TOG 1.5 to 2.5 |
Summer Baby (June–August)
| Type of clothing | Quantity | Specific Features |
|---|---|---|
| Short-sleeved bodysuits | 8–10 | Lightweight, breathable cotton |
| Lightweight pajamas | 4–6 | Without feet or made of gauze |
| Romper suits | 3–4 | Practical and cute |
| Hat/sun hat | 1-2 | Sun protection |
| Lightweight socks | 3–4 pairs | For the AC |
| Lightweight sleeping bag | 2 | TOG 0.5 to 1 |
Fall baby (September to October)
| Type of clothing | Quantity | Specific Features |
|---|---|---|
| Long-sleeve bodysuits | 6–8 | Classic cotton |
| Short-sleeved bodysuits | 3–4 | For mild days |
| Cotton pajamas | 6–8 | Classics |
| Vests | 3–4 | Essentials |
| Hats | 1-2 | For outings |
| Mid-season sleeping bag | 2 | TOG 2 to 2.5 |
Essential clothing for the first 3 months
Essential baby clothes
| Clothing | Quantity | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Bodies | 8–10 | Cross-over or shoulder presses (easier) |
| Pyjamas | 6–8 | Top-to-bottom pressure (easy to change) |
| Vests/cardigans | 3–4 | Various thicknesses |
| Sports bras | 2–3 | For the first few days |
| Socks | 5–6 pairs | They're getting lost! |
| Hats | 2–3 | Even in the summer (maternity ward air conditioning) |
Why choose wrap-around bodysuits?
| Advantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| No passing over the head | The baby doesn't like that |
| Easy access to the cord | Important during the first few days |
| Quick threading | Precious at 3 a.m. |
| Adjustable | Adapts to the body's shape |
Size distribution: THE golden rule
Mistake #1 for new parents: Buying too many newborn-sized items.
| Size | Recommended ratio | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Birth (50 cm) | 2–3 rooms max | Many babies don't wear it |
| 1 month (54 cm) | 1/3 of the set | A few weeks |
| 3 months (60 cm) | 1/3 of the set | Worn for longer |
| 6 months (67 cm) | 1/3 of the set | Anticipation |
Tip: Keep the tags and receipts in case you need to exchange the item.
Beyond clothes: other baby essentials
For sleep
| Element | Quantity | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeping bags | 2–3 | A lightweight, a warm one, a mid-season |
| Fitted sheets | 3–4 | For the crib/bed |
| Mattress protectors | 2–3 | Protect the mattress |
| Gauze diapers | 6–8 | Multi-purpose |
For personal care and hygiene
| Element | Quantity | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Bibs | 5–7 | Frequent spitting up |
| Bathrobes | 2 | With a hood |
| Washcloths | 4–5 | Soft, made of cotton |
| Reusable wipes | 10–15 | Cost-effective and eco-friendly |
| Diapers | 1 pack, size 1 | Don't overstock |
What NOT to buy in advance
| Element | Why wait? |
|---|---|
| Too many layers | You don't know the baby's exact size |
| Cosmetics | A baby's skin reacts differently |
| Shoes | Useless before the walk |
| Too many newborn sizes | Often too small |
Put together YOUR maternity bag
We often forget, but moms need the right essentials too!
If you plan to breastfeed
Breastfeeding requires appropriate clothing right from the start. Buying these items in advance will make life easier for you in the hospital and at home.
Discover our Breastfeeding pyjamas soft and elegant pieces for maternity wear and home.
Breastfeeding essentials for moms:
| Clothing | Quantity | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Breastfeeding pyjamas | 2–3 | Overnight stays at the maternity ward + at home |
| Breastfeeding t-shirts | 3–4 | Days at Home |
| Nursing bras | 2–3 | Comfort and convenience |
| Nursing Tops | 2 | For tours |
At 23 Mai Paris, our Breastfeeding pyjamas discreet openings allow you to breastfeed comfortably day and night, while still looking elegant when receiving visitors at the maternity ward.
Discover our Breastfeeding t-shirts comfortable for everyday use.
Breastfeeding accessories to have on hand
| Accessory | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Breastfeeding pillow | 1 | Support during feedings |
| Nursing pads | 1 box of reusable or disposable | Absorb leaks |
| Cotton diapers | 4–6 | Protect your clothes |
| Nipple cream | 1 tube | Relieve irritation |
If you are not breastfeeding
Pack comfortable clothes for the postpartum period:
- Loose-fitting, soft pajamas
- Button-down tops (easy)
- High-waisted elastic-waist pants
For more information, see our article Breast Pads: A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Ones.
Complete Checklist for the Baby Layette
Baby clothes
Essentials:
- 8–10 items (seasonal)
- 6–8 pairs of pajamas
- 3–4 vests/cardigans
- 5–6 pairs of socks
- 2–3 cups
- 2–3 sleep sacks
Depending on the season:
- Snowsuit (winter)
- Romper suits (summer)
- Sun hat (summer)
Baby clothes and accessories
- 3–4 fitted sheets
- 2–3 mattress protectors
- 6–8 gauze diapers
- 5–7 bibs
- 2 bathrobes
- 4–5 washcloths
Mommy's Essentials Kit (if breastfeeding)
- 2-3 Breastfeeding pyjamas
- 3–4 Breastfeeding t-shirts
- 2–3 nursing bras
- 1 nursing pillow
- Nursing pads
- Protective liners
- Nipple cream
Discover our nursing tops discreet and elegant.
Our tips for a successful event
To calculate your exact needs, check out our article How many nursing clothes do you really need?
The 5 Golden Rules
| Rule | Application |
|---|---|
| Quality > Quantity | Fewer parts, but durable |
| Natural materials | Organic cotton, linen, bamboo |
| Keep the labels | Exchange option |
| Don't buy everything | Make room for gifts |
| Taking care of yourself | Your comfort matters too |
Estimated budget
| Job | Small budget | Affordable |
|---|---|---|
| Baby clothes (3 months) | 150€ | 300€ |
| Linens and accessories | 80€ | 150€ |
| Breastfeeding Set for Moms | 100€ | 200€ |
| TOTAL | 330€ | 650€ |
Tips for cutting costs:
- Accepting used clothing (babies grow fast)
- Wait for the sales for non-urgent purchases
- Create a baby registry for gifts
- Prioritize flexible spaces
Mistakes to avoid
| Error | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Shop everything in newborn sizes | Clothing that has never been worn | Distribute the sizes |
| Forget about the season | Inappropriate clothing | Planning for 3 months after birth |
| Forgetting Mom's hospital bag | Postpartum discomfort | Plan to have 2–3 nursing tops |
| Stockpiling diapers | Wrong size | Buy as you go |
Conclusion
Organizing your baby’s layette effectively comes down to simplicity and planning ahead. Always prioritize quality over quantity, choose natural materials, and don’t forget about your own comfort as a mom.
At 23 Mai Paris, we support expectant mothers with nursing clothes Designed for those precious first few months. Comfortable, stylish, and practical pieces that make life easier for you at the hospital and at home. Because those first moments with your baby deserve to be enjoyed with peace of mind.
Browse our nursing wear collection and take your time putting together your maternity wardrobe.
If you are breastfeeding, here are some of our nursing clothes that may interest you:
T-shirts d'allaitement
T-shirts d'allaitement imprimés
T-shirts d'allaitement personnalisés
T-shirts d’allaitement basiques
Hauts d’allaitement personnalisables
Pulls d'allaitement
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement
Pulls d'allaitement maille
Débardeurs d'allaitement
Robes d'allaitement
Pyjamas d'allaitement
vêtements d'allaitement
Vêtements de maternité et d'allaitement
Vêtements d'allaitement à ouverture sur le côté
Vêtements d'allaitement grande taille
Vêtements d'allaitement d'été
Vêtements d'allaitement chauds
Vêtements d'allaitement brodés
Vêtements d'allaitement d'hiver
Vêtements d'allaitement confortables
Vêtements d'allaitement en coton
Vêtements de grossesse et d'allaitement
Vêtements d'allaitement originaux
Vêtements d'allaitement pas chers
Vêtements d'allaitement personnalisés
Vêtements d'allaitement en soldes
Vêtements d'allaitement à manches courtes
Vêtements d'allaitement à petit prix
Vêtements d'allaitement à zip
Vêtements d'allaitement abordables
Vêtements d'allaitement amples
Vêtements d'allaitement beiges
Vêtements d'allaitement blanc
Vêtements d'allaitement bleu
Vêtements d'allaitement discrets
Vêtements d'allaitement doux
Vêtements d'allaitement en promotion
Vêtements d'allaitement gris
Vêtements d'allaitement Imprimés
Vêtements d'allaitement jaunes
Vêtements d'allaitement leopard
Vêtements d'allaitement noir
Vêtements d'allaitement rose
Vêtements d’allaitement sobres
Vêtements d'allaitement tendances
Vêtements d'allaitement unis
Vêtements de sport pour l'allaitement
T-shirt allaitement imprimé
T-shirt allaitement personnalisé
T-shirt allaitement coloris uni
T-shirt allaitement manches longues
T-shirt allaitement blanc
T-shirt allaitement bleu
T-shirt allaitement noir
T-shirt allaitement gris
T-shirt allaitement camel
T-shirt allaitement léopard
T-shirt allaitement brodés
T-shirt allaitement coton
T-shirt allaitement zip
T-shirt allaitement été
T-shirt allaitement hiver
T-shirt grossesse allaitement
T-shirt allaitement milk
T-shirt allaitement coeur
T-shirt allaitement pas cher
T-shirt allaitement ouverture coté
T-shirt allaitement discret
T-shirt allaitement confortable
T-shirt allaitement originaux
T-shirt d'Allaitement avec col en V
T-shirts d'allaitement jaune
T-shirts d'allaitement marron
T-shirts d'allaitement multicolore
T-shirts d'allaitement rose
T-shirts d'allaitement rouge
T-shirts d'allaitement unis
Pyjamas d'allaitement
Pyjamas d'allaitement 2 pièces
Pyjamas d'allaitement en promotion
Pyjamas d'allaitement en soldes
Pyjamas d'allaitement leopard
Pyjamas de maternité
Chemises de nuit d'allaitement
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement à ouverture sur le côté
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement en promotion
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement pas chers
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement verts
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement roses
Sweat-shirts de grossesse
Sweat Shirts d'allaitement blancs
Pulls allaitement zip
Pulls allaitement maille
Pulls allaitement laine
Pulls allaitement grossesse
Pulls allaitement chaud
Pulls allaitement pas cher
Pulls allaitement hiver
Pulls d'allaitement ouverture coté
Pulls d'allaitement discret
Robes d’allaitement en maille
Robes d’allaitement chaudes
Robes d’allaitement d’hiver
Robes d’allaitement beiges
Robes d’allaitement longues
Robes d’allaitement courtes
Robes d'allaitement festives
Robes d'allaitement d'été
Robes d'allaitement de vacances
Robes d'allaitement en promotion
Robes d'allaitement noires
Robes d'allaitement pas cher
Robes d'allaitement pour mariage
Robes de grossesse
Robes pull allaitement
If you are only a pregnant mom, here are our maternity clothes:
Black maternity jeans
Gray maternity jeans
Colored maternity jeans
Blue maternity jeans
Cheap maternity jeans
Comfortable maternity jeans
Maternity jeans
Colored maternity jeans
Black maternity jeans
Gray maternity jeans
Blue maternity jeans
Cheap maternity jeans
Comfortable maternity jeans
Maternity pants
Black maternity pants
Gray maternity pants
Colored maternity pants
Blue maternity pants
Jeans for pregnant women
Gray maternity jeans
Blue maternity jeans
Black jeans for pregnant women
Cheap jeans for pregnant women
Comfortable maternity jeans
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