Finding out you’re pregnant is an incredibly special and exciting time. However, there’s an endless list of things you need to do and consider before bringing your bundle of joy home. You may wonder, “How do I prepare my house for a baby?” Here are all the tips you need to know to baby-ready your home for your pregnancy to be as stress-free as possible.
When Should You Start Preparing Your Space to be Baby-Ready?
The best time to start prepping your space for a baby largely depends on your circumstances and the tasks you plan to take on. Generally, many expectant parents begin the process during the second trimester of pregnancy. This time frame allows ample consideration of the practical aspects, like creating a nursery, purchasing essentials and baby-proofing your home.
However, some parents choose to start even earlier, especially if major renovations or decluttering tasks are on the agenda. Early preparation provides a cushion of time, reducing stress as the due date approaches. Regardless of when you choose to start, it’s crucial to think about the physical demands of pregnancy and to pace yourself.
1. Declutter Closets
Clearing out and organizing your closets is a great way to reduce physical clutter before the arrival of your newborn. Start by sorting through clothes, shoes, accessories and other clutter, keeping only things you need and love. Consider donating or storing items you won’t use during pregnancy. Babies need plenty of things — more than you’d imagine and they take up a ton of space. By decluttering your closets you can create more space for baby-related items and avoid getting overwhelmed by overstuffed cupboards.
2. Create a Relaxing Space
Make your home a relaxing place to spend time. Depending on your symptoms, pregnancy can make you feel fatigued and run down. Ensure you have a designated spot where you can sit and unwind. Personalize the space with comfortable seating, cushions, soft lighting and other items that bring you joy. Use this space for meditation, reading, watching TV or simply unwinding. Once the baby is born, you can use this space for feeding.
3. Prep Freezer Meals
Meal prepping is a game-changer — especially during pregnancy. Meal prep quick and easy freezer-safe meals that you can pop in the microwave after a particularly draining day. Having a freezer stocked with nutritious meals on hand will save you plenty of time when the demands of parenthood take over. Some ideas include:
- Cottage pie
- Mac and cheese
- Lasagne
- Pasta bake
- Curries
- Stews
- Stir-fries
4. Think About Air Quality and Pregnancy
Creating a healthy environment for your baby should be a top priority. Invest in air purifiers, ensure proper insulation and use non-toxic cleaning products to minimize pollutants. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are common in indoor environments and are often odorless, causing headaches, fatigue and allergies. Children and babies are particularly susceptible to the negative effects of poor indoor air quality.
5. Get a Head Start on Baby-Proofing
Start baby-proofing your home early to ensure a safe environment once your little one starts exploring. Install safety gates, pad corners of furniture, cover electrical outlets and remove potential hazards from reach. By taking these precautions before the baby arrives, you’ll be better prepared for their developmental milestones, providing peace of mind and creating a secure home.
6. Get the Nursery in Order
Setting up the nursery can be one of the more enjoyable tasks — but it involves careful planning and organization. Arrange furniture thoughtfully, ensuring easy access to essentials like diapers, wipes and clothing. Decorate the space with love, adding sooth colors and comforting elements. You’ll spend a lot of time in this room, so make sure it’s calming and well-thought-out.
7. Keep a Basket Upstairs and Downstairs
Efficiency is key when caring for a newborn, and having essential supplies readily available on both levels of your home is a practical solution. Place a well-stocked basket with diapers, wipes, towels, powder and any other necessities upstairs and downstairs. This ensures you can quickly attend to your baby’s needs without having to navigate stairs with each diaper change, making daily routines seamless and stress-free.
8. Sterilize Bottles and Wash Clothes
Newborns are extremely susceptible to infections, so pay extra attention to cleanliness and hygiene. Take the time to sterilize bottles and pacifiers to eliminate harmful bacteria and prevent your little one from getting sick. Additionally, wash your 0-3 month clothes with a gentle, baby-friendly detergent to get rid of any germs from the store of handling.
9. Stay on Top of Chores
While it may seem challenging to keep up with household chores amidst the preparations for a new family member, staying organized and on top of tasks is essential for maintaining a comfortable living space. Create a realistic schedule, breaking tasks into manageable chunks. Spread chores out throughout the week to avoid getting overwhelmed. Enlist the support of your partner or loved ones to share responsibilities. A well-kept home provides a sense of order and calmness, contributing to a stress-free environment for you and your baby.
10. Buy a Car Seat (And Install It)
Safety is paramount when traveling with a newborn. Do your research before purchasing a reliable car seat well before your due date and familiarize yourself with how to install it. Sometimes women go into labor unexpectedly — before they’ve had the chance to buy a car seat. Make sure you have your car seat well in advance to prevent having to make a rushed decision.
11. Get Ready For Visitors
If you’re allowing family and friends to visit when you get home from the hospital, try to create an inviting space to prevent feeling overwhelmed when the time comes. Welcoming loved ones into your home during this special time can be joyous and overwhelming. Communicate clearly with potential visitors about your preferences and specific guidelines you want them to follow.
Remember, while many loved ones are excited to meet the newest member of your family, you’re not obligated to have visitors if you’re not comfortable or ready. Setting boundaries is a healthy and valid choice, giving you the time and space to bond with your baby and establish a routine.
Get Ahead
Every effort you put into preparing your home for pregnancy contributes to creating a nurturing and loving space for your growing family. Enjoy this journey and savor the moments of anticipation as you eagerly await the arrival of your precious little one — it all goes by so fast.
