Buying a maternity kit
Help! My insurance doesn’t cover a maternity kit – now what?
Don’t panic. You’re definitely not the only one wondering about this as your due date gets closer. A maternity kit contains the medical and hygienic supplies needed for a (home) birth and the first few days afterwards. Some health insurers send one out automatically, but that’s not always the case. Haven’t received one? No worries – it’s easy to take care of it yourself. This article explains how.
Option 1: Buy a ready-made maternity kit
Quick and easy: just order a complete kit that contains (almost) everything you need. Ideal if you don’t feel like gathering all the items separately.
For example, this basic kit from Natalis:
👉 Natalis Basic Kraampakket – bol.com
Note: some kits include more than others. Always double-check to make sure the essential items are included. You can order any missing products separately.
Option 2: Put together your own maternity kit
Prefer to be in control or only want to buy what you actually need? You can also assemble your own kit. Below is an overview of the essential items, split into two categories: for the birth and for the postpartum period.
Pick what works for you
The product links in this article point to items we personally like to work with – they’re reliable, good quality, and easy to order online. But please feel free to choose the products that suit you best. As long as you’re getting the right type of product, there’s usually more than one good option.
For the birth
These supplies are used by the midwife during a home birth, but they’re also handy to have at home even if you plan to give birth in the hospital (you never know how things will go):
- Sterile gauze pads 5x5 cm
👉 HeltiQ gaaskompressen – bol.com - Sterile gauze pads 10x10 cm
👉 HEKA gaaskompressen – bol.com - 70% alcohol (120ml)
👉 HeltiQ Alcohol 70% – bol.com - Cord ring (for the umbilical cord)
Available at our practice for €2.50 - Mattress protector or plastic sheet (80x180 cm)
👉 Matrasbeschermer – bol.com - Disposable bed mats or absorbent pads (15 pieces)
Budget-friendly tip: puppy pads (60x90 cm)
👉 Puppypads – bol.com
For after the birth (postpartum)
It’s important to stay well-prepared after the birth too. These items will help you recover in a hygienic and comfortable way:
- Maternity pads (for the first few days)
👉 Abena Kraamverband – bol.com - Heavy-flow sanitary pads
👉 Sanature Kraamverband – Etos - Light-flow pads or period underwear
👉 Yoni maandverband – Etos - Cotton wool (for wound care or extra absorption)
👉 Natalis Zig Zag Watten – bol.com - Gloves (for maternity care and hygiene)
👉 Natalis Handschoenen – bol.com - Mesh underwear (to keep maternity pads in place)
👉 Tena Fix Premium – bol.com
Final tip: better too much than too little
You don’t need to stock up like you’re opening a mini ER, but having a bit extra is a smart move. Most items have a long shelf life, and you can always use them for a future birth or pass them on to someone else.
Not sure what you really need? Just ask us during your next check-up. We’re happy to help you figure out what fits your personal situation, birth plan, and budget.