Question 1

What equipment do you hire?

Accepted Answer

We currently offer a range of birth support equipment including birth pools, TENS machines, and the Birth Sling, all designed to support comfort, movement, and confidence during pregnancy and labour. 
As we grow, more will come.

Question 2

When should I book my equipment?

Accepted Answer

As we have a limited number of birth support tools available, we recommend booking as soon as possible for your desired dates.

Question 3

How long is the hire period?

Accepted Answer

Our standard hire period is typically 2–6 weeks, depending on the tool, giving you plenty of time before and after your due date without feeling rushed.

Question 4

What happens if my baby is early or late?

Accepted Answer

We understand that birth timing is unpredictable. We offer flexible hire windows and will always do our best to accommodate early or late arrivals, just keep us updated.

Question 5

Do you require a bond or deposit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a refundable bond of $100 is required for all hire items. This is returned once equipment is cleaned, checked, and returned in good condition.

Question 6

Is the equipment cleaned and safe to use?

Accepted Answer

Our cleaning and sanitising processes follow strict hygiene guidelines to ensure every item is safe, clean, and ready for use.

Slings are carefully washed using eco-friendly products. They are first cleaned with Hudstone Wash and then sanitised using Ecodev Laundry Sanitiser to ensure they are fresh, safe, and gentle for use.
TENS machines are sanitised after every hire using Ecodev Sanitiser, ensuring they are hygienic and ready for the next user.
Birth pools are always used with a single-use liner, providing a clean barrier for each use. After use, pools are thoroughly sanitised with bleach in line with strict hygiene standards.

If you have any specific questions about our cleaning processes, feel free to get in touch, we’re happy to help.

Question 7

Do you provide instructions on how to use the equipment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all hires come with clear instructions, and we’re always available to answer questions or guide you through setup and use.

Question 8

Can I use my birth pool for a home birth?

Accepted Answer

Because we do not currently have access to home birth or hospital water birth options in Kununurra, our birth pools are intended for labour use only and are not suitable for birth. They can be used at home during labour to help with comfort, relaxation, and movement, and we recommend discussing their use with your healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for your individual circumstances.

We also encourage you to let the hospital know if a water birth is something you would like, and to share your opinion via Care Opinion and join our Birth Forum. Your feedback will help advocate for more birthing choices in the future.

Question 9

Can I bring the equipment into hospital?

Accepted Answer

Yes — some hire equipment can be brought into the hospital, depending on the item and how it will be used.

Current hospital guidelines are as follows:
• Birth Pool: currently not permitted in hospital.
• Birth Sling: currently only permitted when used with a birth bar attachment on the bed. We have been advised that the hospital door hinges are not suitable for supporting a sling. We are continuing to advocate for ceiling-mounted supports to allow slings to be safely used in hospital settings in the future.
• TENS Machine: permitted for use in hospital.

Question 10

What if something gets damaged?

Accepted Answer

We understand accidents happen. Minor wear is expected, but significant damage or loss may be deducted from the bond or we will require you to pay the wholesale cost of the item. We’ll always communicate clearly and fairly.

Question 11

Do you offer delivery of pickup?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer delivery and pickup within 15kms of Kununurra for an additional fee of $10 (each trip), or you can choose to collect and return the equipment yourself for free. Anything further than 15km, we can deliver for $1/km extra.

the nurtured mother

Frequently asked questions