Homebirth Supplies: What You Need

You have made the decision to give birth in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Now you are wondering what supplies you will need to make your big day a complete success, and make things go very smoothly.

You midwife probably has a checklist of items she will need for you to have on hand when she attends you while you are in labor. Other midwives will bring their own supplies, or will ask you to purchase or order a specific kit that will include all of the necessities for the birth.

In any case, the common items that you should consider having on hand can be easily gathered together in one place. Keep in mind that much of the items for your homebirth can actually be purchased at a dollar store, discount store, or even a garage or tag sale, as you will be disposing of them afterwards anyway.

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You will most likely need:

Towels, in quantity! White towels are preferred, as it is easier to detect colors of fluids on a white towel. Do not hesitate to pick up old towels at garage or tags sales. You will most likely be trashing the towels that you use during the birth anyway.
Sheets. You will need sheets for the bed that you do not mind to throw away also. You may also want extra sheets around to place on furniture if you move about, as in from the couch to the bed, or back again.
Waterproof mattress cover, if you plan to birth in bed. You can also substitute a shower curtain liner, which works perfectly and serves the same purpose. You can pick up a cheap shower curtain liner at most discount stores for less than five dollars. If you are planning a waterbirth, you may want a second one or two of these to put underneath the pool or tub, to protect your flooring.
Extra-large mixing bowl. The placenta will be deposited in this.
Chux pads, the big blue ones. These will be used to absorb fluids and blood and also to protect your furniture.
Bleach, for sterilizing towels, sheets, and other linens before the birth.
Trash bags for cleanup.
Ice or ice chips for you to snack on during the birth.
Receiving blankets, clothing, socks, hat, and diapers for baby.
Formula and bottles if you are not breastfeeding, including a bottle brush and large cooker for sterilizing bottles.
Flashlight – if you want to keep your birthing room dark, it's good that your supporting person has a flaslight.
Camera, films, batteries, video recorder and tapes.
Candles or essential oils, if you are using these therapies during birth.
Herbal remedies or tinctures that your midwife may recommend prior to birth that will assist you during labor and delivery.
Birthing pool or tub, which you have rented or bought, if you are planning a waterbirth.
Easy to fix frozen dinners or canned meals for the family that they can easily microwave during the time you are in labor and in the days following the birth.
Over the counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or others that might be recommended by your midwife.

As you gather your supplies, it is important for you to keep in mind that although its great to be prepared, you can always send someone out for things you might need during your birth at home.

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