Hey, momma!

Are you expecting the arrival of a precious new baby in the next few weeks??

The anticipation can be exciting AND overwhelming all at the same time!!

It’s totally normal to feel both of those feelings at the same time, I know because I did!

I’ve rounded up my top 5 tips for getting your home ready for your new addition quickly, because lets face it, life is busy and checklists help lol

As a mom who’s been through the newborn phase 3 times (each one so different from the last), I’ve gathered some unique ideas and tips that you might not have thought of before!

1. Stock up on essentials– and not just for the baby!

You’re likely already thinking about things like diapers, wipes, bottles, etc… but have you considered stocking up on regular household items like TP, paper towels, dish soap, body wash, laundry soap, household cleaners(etc.)?

My best tip would be to set up whatever items you’re likely to run out of on Amazon Subscribe and Save. They’ll show up on your doorstep so you don’t have the daunting task of having to take your little chunk out in public for the first month or two!

2. Declutter your Home

Decluttering your home can sound like a HUGE to-do, especially when you’re expecting a new baby but it’s easier than you think to get your home ready.

Here are some things I did to declutter before each of my babies arrived:

Step 1: Choose two or three rooms that you frequent most often (this will likely be your living room, kitchen and bedroom).

Step 2: Start by noticing where things tend to pile up. For me, that’s always been on small little tabletops and on the kitchen counters (I have one specific corner that is the bane of my existence :P). Throw out what is trash and find permanent homes for the rest so the space is less cluttered.

Step 3: Let’s clear out what you don’t want or need anymore. Go through each drawer, cabinet and shelf and ask yourself, “Do I still need/want this item?”, “Have I used this item in the last 6 months?”. If the answer is no then get it out so it’s one less thing you need to think about!

Step 4: Make 3 piles, “Keep, Donate, Toss” and put everything into 1 of those piles.

Step 5: Organize the “keep” items, throw away the “toss” items (or recycle if possible) and give away the “donate”. The hardest part is actually making it over to the donation site so be sure to set a reminder on your phone, or better yet, just go put it in the back of your car!

Decluttering has always been SUPER overwhelming for me, but I always feel SO much better when I declutter my space. In the end, it’s always worth the effort for me to be free of mind!

Step 6: Turn on some music and make it fun!

Ask a friend or family member to come over and help!

By following these simple steps over the course of just a few days or a weekend, you can quickly create an stress-free and comfortable newborn-ready environment in your own home.

3. Prepare Meals

One thing I loved doing was doubling my recipes on any given night (when I was making meals that would fare well in the freezer). The thought of cooking a ton of food all at once was intimidating to me, but making extra of whatever meal I was going to make anyways was super helpful in making sure I was able to prepare and not have to set aside a full day to batch cook!

Put whatever you didn’t eat in a ziplock or silicone saver bag in the freezer to pull out and warm up after baby gets here!

By doing this, you can create a stockpile of nutritious, homemade meals that will make the first few weeks with your newborn easier!

4. Prepare YOUR wardrobe

Of course we’re thinking a lot about how to prepare for the baby, but don’t forget about yourself!

Preparing your wardrobe for the first 2-3 weeks postpartum is an important step in getting ready for the arrival of your new baby.

Comfort and functionality are key during this time! You’ll want to focus on loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that can accommodate changes in your body shape and allow for easy breastfeeding access, if you plan to breastfeed.

Some of my favorites were the two piece button up pajama sets from Target and the button up sleeping dress. They were SUPER soft with easy access to the boobies so babe could nurse.

Consider investing in a few nursing bras, loose-fitting pants or leggings, and comfortable tops that are easy to pull up or down. Some women also find it helpful to have a couple of nursing-friendly dresses on hand for a dressier option.

Remember, the key to preparing your wardrobe for the first few weeks postpartum is to prioritize comfort and practicality. By doing so, you can focus on bonding with your new baby without worrying about your clothing or physical discomfort!

5. Put together a baby basket

A baby basket, or somewhere to put all the baby things in one place, is a lifesaver those first few weeks home!

You quickly figure out where your comfy place to hold, feed baby and rest is going to be and having a baby basket can solve the issue of not having what you need on hand!

My best suggestion is to create a container you can keep in each room of the house that has all the essentials for baby so you’re not running around from room to room getting the things you need.

My baby baskets always included diapers, wipes, burp cloths, extra clothes, binkys, diaper cream, nursing pads, nipple balm, a water and some light snacks.

6. Light your home the right way

You definitely don’t have to do this, but proper lighting can help create a calming atmosphere for both you and your baby.

Go around and look at the rooms you’ll spend the most time in (typically kitchen, living room, bedrooms). You’ll want to consider the type of lighting you have in each room.

• Do you want to add a lamp option (yes, even in the kitchen)?
• Under cabinet lights?
• How about a dimmer switch for the overhead lights?
• What about small wall plug in lights to help light the way in the halls for the middle of the night?

The right lighting can help frustrating or overly stimulating situations feel much more calm and peaceful.

One last thing to consider about lighting is that there are safety components too. Make sure that all cords and outlets are safely tucked away and secured to prevent tripping or electrical hazards.

I hope that reading 6 unique and effective ways to prep your home for a new baby (from a mom of 3) | Longmont, CO In Home Newborn Photographer has given you some solid ideas! If you’re still looking for a newborn photographer, click here to see my portfolio!

Which of these tips are you going to do first? Did you learn something new today? Let me know in the by messaging me through my IG or Facebook links below!

Best,

Alexis (Lexi)