I have included as much detail as possible and there are items that you may wish to discard or add to the list. For obvious reasons it would be better to select darker rather than light clothing. Here's the 20 essentials.

1. Wash bag
Shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, deodorant, moisturiser, cleaning wipes, lip balm and some make up. Some amount of make up may help you feel more comfortable when visitors arrive.

2. 2 x Sponges
One small sponge for sips of water and sponging your face and a larger one for sponging you down. Some women prefer to take a water spray for cooling down during labor.

3. Towels x 2
Fairly obvious what these are for!

4. Two or three clean nightdresses
Pick a dark colour and select a front opening style.

5. Underwear
Plenty of pairs of dark knickers, socks and your nursing bras. (See the end of this article for a free breastfeeding guide)

6. Dressing Gown and slippers

7. Something to wear during labor
Most opt for a large comfortable t-shirt (better than a hospital gown) and a hair bobble.

8. Ear plugs
May enable you to get some sleep while other babies are crying.

9. Mobile/Money/Phone Card
Obviously, so you can make some calls.

10. Anti-constipation tablets
Constipation is uncomfortable but it will be painful if you have had stitches.

11. Books/Music
Things to keep you occupied in hospital

12. A warm loose fitting cardigan or similar
In case you get cold while in hospital.

13. Camera and film
To take pictures of course!

14. Clothes to wear home
Unfortunately normally still your maternity clothes.

15. Maternity pads
Very thick sanitary towels.

16. Breast pads
You'll soon discover that breast milk doesn't just flow at feeding time, especially early on.

17. Rubber ring
Child's inflatable swimming ring aid. May be more comfortable to sit on if you have stitches.

18. Glucose tablets
For that extra energy

19. A tennis ball in a sock
Can help with alleviating back pain during labor

20. Clothes/Nappies For Your Baby
Sleep suits, vests, scratch mittens, nappies/diapers, nappy/diaper cream, cotton wool and blankets. Make sure your partner has the car seat ready to bring you from his car.

It's unlikely that you'll need anything else if use this list. The only other thing to remember to bring with you is your birth plan, which you may wish to also pack in this bag.

Good luck and happy parenting!