The countdown to meeting your little one is filled with a mix of excitement, anticipation, and an ever-growing checklist of "things to do before baby arrives." From the pivotal task of installing a car seat to the simple joy of setting up a cozy crib, every step is a stride toward creating a welcoming world for your baby. And while the prospect of sleepless nights might loom large, a bit of preparation can make those early days smoother. Whether you're a first-time parent or you've been on this journey before, there are always new things to learn and consider. Keep reading to ensure everything is in place for that special day!
Navigating the many things to do before baby arrives can be overwhelming, but a clear roadmap can ease the journey. As you consider how to get ready for a baby, let our detailed to-do list guide you through each essential step.
As the countdown to your baby's debut begins, getting a head start on home tasks can set the stage for smoother days ahead. Whether it's setting visitor guidelines or whipping up some freezer meals, these proactive steps ensure you can savor those first moments of parenthood with a little less hustle and a lot more joy.
Do the Laundry
Laundry is often an overlooked task but you’ll be happy to have everything clean and ready to go once your baby arrives. Wash everything that baby will wear or come into contact with to make sure it’s clean and free from any irritants. Opt for a baby detergent specifically formulated for sensitive skin to wash your baby's clothes. Remember to wash other items like sheets, mattress pad coverings, and cloth diapers. Having these items freshly laundered will give you peace of mind and one less thing to worry about when your little one comes home.
Clean Out Your Fridge
As you anticipate the arrival of your little one, it's a good idea to declutter and organize your fridge. This not only creates space for essentials like breastmilk or formula but also ensures you have a clear view of what's available. To make those first few weeks smoother, consider preparing some quick meals in advance and storing them in the freezer. When hunger strikes, you'll have nutritious options ready to heat up, saving you precious time and energy.
Clean the House
A tidy space can bring peace of mind, especially as you gear up for those first days with your little one. Start by organizing your living areas, putting away dishes, and ensuring surfaces are clean and germ-free. Clear out any clutter that's accumulated over time, opting to donate or discard items no longer needed. As you anticipate spending more cherished moments at home with your newborn, consider adding a touch of warmth with some fresh decor like new throw pillows or blankets — creating a snug and inviting environment.
Create a Visitors Policy
Before your baby makes their grand entrance, it's wise to establish a visitors policy. Determine when you'd be comfortable having family over and the duration of their visits. By setting these boundaries early on, you set clear expectations for everyone involved. If you're open to assistance, discuss with family members about potential days they might be available to lend a hand. For those considering extended family stays, getting a guest room ready can be a thoughtful touch.
It's a joyous time in your home with the arrival of your little one and while welcoming visitors can be a delightful experience, always choose what feels most comfortable and harmonious for you and your baby.
Amidst the whirlwind of nesting, certain baby-prep tasks may get overlooked. Whether it's picking out the ideal stroller for sunny park days or mastering the art of buckling your baby into their car seat, here's our curated list to get you baby-ready!
Purchase Baby Supplies
Welcoming a baby means ensuring you have all the necessary supplies at the ready. Begin by stocking up on diapers, a staple you'll reach for frequently. For those who are stepping into parenthood for the first time, it's a great idea to familiarize yourself with baby products like a car seat or stroller. Try practicing with a baby doll by securing it in the car seat. You can also get the hang of opening and closing the stroller or trying on a baby carrier. Beyond these, ensure you have items like a breast pump, bottles, baby wipes, pacifiers, an assortment of baby clothes, toys, a cozy bassinet, a handy diaper bag, and more. Being prepared will make those first few days smoother and more enjoyable.
Set Up the Nursery
Setting up the nursery is one of the most exciting steps in preparing for your baby's first day home. Begin with the essentials: the crib, rocking chair, and changing table. Safety is paramount, so ensure dressers are securely bolted to the wall, drawers have baby locks, and any electrical cords are neatly bundled and out of reach.
To enhance the nursery's ambiance, consider adding blackout curtains to ensure uninterrupted naps, a sound machine to lull your baby to sleep, and a dimmable lamp to maintain a serene atmosphere during nighttime feeds. Organizing baby clothes by size will make dressing your little one a breeze.
And remember, in those early days, it's all about creating a cozy, convenient space for both you and your baby. If you're considering room sharing with your baby in the early stages, think about organizing baby essentials right in your bedroom. Using a bassinet keeps your little one close by and can simplify nighttime feedings. This arrangement ensures your baby is within arm's reach — making night wakings smoother and more serene for everyone involved.
Set Up a Monitoring System
Setting up a monitoring system is like having an extra set of eyes, always keeping a watchful gaze on your precious little one. When shopping for a baby monitor, you'll find a variety of options, from motion-activated and video monitors to those that pick up the slightest coo or cry. Having this tech by your side can offer that much-needed peace of mind, especially during those peaceful nights when your baby is soundly sleeping.
Set Up a Feeding Station
As you work through your "to-do list before baby" arrives, setting up a dedicated feeding station should be a top priority. Begin by familiarizing yourself with your breast pump; reading the directions and understanding its use can save precious time later. Designate a serene spot, whether in the nursery or living room, where you can comfortably bottle-feed or breastfeed. Equip this area with a cozy chair and have essentials like burp cloths and nursing pads within arm's reach. And don't forget the importance of sterilization: ensure all bottles, caps, pacifiers, and nipples are sterilized, ensuring your little one’s feeding items are free from harmful germs and bacteria.
Install the Car Seat
Think of installing the car seat as more than just ticking a box — it's setting the stage for all those future sing-alongs and backseat giggles. If you haven’t chosen a car seat for your little one yet, you have three choices: either an infant car seat (rear-facing only), a convertible car seat (set in rear-facing mode), or an all-in-one car seat (set in rear-facing mode). Once you pick the car seat that best suits your growing family, you can practice installing it to ensure you’re comfortable securing your little one when the time comes.
Begin by thoroughly reading the car seat’s instruction manual to understand the installation process. Many car seat companies have their installation manuals online, as well as demonstration videos you can refer to. After setting it up, give the car seat a good tug from side to side to ensure it's installed correctly. It shouldn’t move more than one inch in either direction. Take time to become more familiar and comfortable with the process and you’ll be a pro in no time!
Before the delightful chaos of baby giggles, midnight feedings, and diaper changes takes center stage, it's time for a little 'you' spotlight. Embrace this unique moment to indulge in self-care and gather all the postpartum must-haves. After all, a happy parent makes for a happy baby!
Practice Self Care
As you figure out how to get ready for a baby, remember to also prioritize self-care. With exciting baby-filled days on the horizon, now is a perfect time to treat yourself. Consider enjoying a soothing massage or taking a relaxing babymoon before your little one's arrival. It's also a good opportunity to fill your prescriptions, attend any pending doctor appointments, and complete those last-minute errands. Cherish moments with friends, and even after your baby makes their debut, continue to prioritize moments for yourself. Sometimes, it's the little things — like ensuring you have time for a peaceful shower — that can make all the difference.
Stock Up On Essentials
One of the top things to do before baby arrives is to ensure you're well-stocked on household and personal essentials. The initial weeks with your newborn can be a whirlwind, making regular outings a bit challenging. To ease this transition, gather everything from toilet paper and cleaning supplies to laundry detergent. Don't forget postpartum must-haves like pads, comfortable attire, and ice packs. Pre-cooking meals for freezing can be a lifesaver for those nights when cooking feels like a monumental task. And always keep nutritious snacks within reach, along with a large reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Even though your to-do list before baby arrives may feel extensive, focusing on a few important steps before your baby makes their grand entrance into the world can give you extra peace of mind! Spend time practicing self-care, setting up the nursery, and getting any last-minute errands taken care of. You can also visit our blog for more parenting tips and guidance.