Having a baby in the NICU is one of the most overwhelming experiences a parent can face. Between the monitors, the medical team, and the emotional rollercoaster, the last thing you want to worry about is whether you've packed the right things. This checklist is here to help.

What to Pack for Yourself

You'll be spending long hours at the hospital, so comfort matters. Pack easy-to-wear nursing tops or button-down shirts (skin-to-skin kangaroo care is encouraged in most NICUs), snacks and a water bottle, a journal or notebook for tracking feeds and milestones, and comfortable shoes — you'll be on your feet a lot.

Expressing Equipment

If you're planning to breastfeed or provide breast milk, a hospital-grade breast pump is essential. Many NICU moms find that a double electric pump helps them maintain supply during those early weeks when baby can't yet latch. Browse our breast pump range to find the right fit — the Spectra range and Ameda Glo are both popular choices for NICU moms.

Preemie Clothing and Nappies

Standard newborn clothing won't fit a premature baby. Look for clothing specifically designed for preemies that allows easy access for tubes and monitors. Our preemie clothing range and preemie nappies are sized for tiny babies and designed with NICU access in mind.

Comfort Items for Baby

Once your baby is stable enough, small comfort items can make a big difference. A soft, small blanket with your scent, a preemie dummy (non-nutritive sucking supports development), and a small stuffed toy (check with your NICU team first) can all help baby feel secure.

Practical NICU Accessories

Don't forget a good bag to carry everything, a portable phone charger, and a notebook app or journal to track your baby's progress. Browse our preemie accessories for more ideas.

A Final Word

You are doing an incredible job. The NICU is hard, but you are exactly where your baby needs you to be. Take it one feed, one day at a time — and know that the Yay Baby team is cheering you on every step of the way. 💛