Get your home ready for a newborn. 5 unique ideas to feel prepared and confident/ La Mirada Birth Photographer
Are you expecting a new baby in the next few weeks? I totally get it, the anticipation can be exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. But don't worry, as a mama of 6, I've been there before! I've gathered 5 unique ideas and tips that will help you get your home ready for your new arrival in just two weeks.
1. Declutter your home
Decluttering your home can sound like a daunting task, especially when you're expecting a newborn! But it's easier than you think to get your home ready for your newest addition. Honestly decluttering has always been overwhelming for me, but I feel SO much better when I declutter my space. A decluttered home helps declutter your mind. It is always worth the effort for me!
Here are some steps to follow to declutter before baby arrives:
Step 1: Choose two or three rooms that you frequent most often (most likely this will be your living room, kitchen and bedroom).
Step 2: Start by noticing where things tend to pile up. For me, that’s always been the counters, kitchen table, dresser and end table. Find a new place for these items to go so they stop piling up!
Step 3: Let’s clear out what you don’t need or want anymore. Go through each drawer, cabinet and shelf and ask yourself, “Do I still need/want this item?” I like to say, if I can't find a spot or "home" for it then it doesn't belong in My Home.
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.” I can say my family has been blessed when others clean out their homes and want to pass along gently used items to us. So when I say donate, it doesn't have to be to a thrift store, it can be to another family that could use them.
Turn on some music and make it fun! Ask a friend to come over and help. What are some ways you get motivated to declutter? Add your own personal experiences and advice here!
By following these simple steps over the course of just a few days or a weekend, you can quickly create a stress-free and comfortable newborn-ready environment in your own home. Just make sure to listen to your body when it says to rest and stay hydrated.
2. Batch cook
The thought of cooking a ton of food in one go can be intimidating, but batch cooking is a lifesaver, especially when you're getting ready to welcome your newborn into the world. Better yet, invite some girlfriends over and have a "Prep Party", a day of meal prepping together! You get to nourish your soul with some great company and conversations and get more done with the extra help because, many hands make light work.
Here are a few simple steps to follow to get started:
Step 1: Plan out your meals. Choose recipes that are easy to make in large quantities, and make a list of all the ingredients you will need. One pan meals are my go to!
Step 2: Go grocery shopping. Try to do this a few days before you plan to start cooking, so you have everything you need on hand. If you're making a "Prep Party" out of it you can ask your friends to pick up specific items for you as well.
Step 3: Set aside a block of time to cook. Depending on how much you want to make, you may need several hours or even a full day to get everything done.
Step 4: Cook in batches. Prepare one recipe at a time, and portion it out into individual servings. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and be sure to label everything with the name of the dish and the date it was made. I also like to include what temperature I need to bake it at as well as how long. This helps keep the guess work away when it's time to re-heat.
Step 5: Freeze your meals. Once everything is cooked and portioned out, place the containers in the freezer. They will keep for several months, so you can have a variety of meals ready to go whenever you need them.
By following these steps, you can create a stockpile of nutritious, homemade meals that will make the first few weeks with your newborn a little bit easier!
Psst: wanna skip the cooking? You can order from these amazing meal delivery services. Mama Meals delivers throughout the United States! Also, if you use the code: ALAINA you'll a discount off your order. My family LOVED the healing organic, gluten free and hearty meals she provided for us! If you live within Orange County (or have friends that don’t mind receiving orders for you) The Sweet Pea offers a wide variety and Crave Prep makes individual to family size meals (my family recommends their meat loaf!).
3. Stock up on essentials (& not just baby essentials)
You’re likely already thinking about things like diapers, wipes, bottles, etc.
But have you considered stocking up on regular household items like paper towels, toilet paper, dishwasher soap, granola bars, your favorite snacks…?
My best tip would be to set these items up on a subscription so they’ll show up on your doorstep and you never have to worry about running out those first few months with your newborn! You can't really stock up on fresh fruit and veggies so subscribing to a produce box is also a great way to keep your body in optimal health while healing. Another bonus to subscriptions is, you tend to get a discount when you subscribe to regular shipments of your items. I'd call that winning!
4. Light your home the right way
Maybe this is important to me because I’m a photographer, I don’t know 😉 but lighting is one I don’t see talked about too often!!
Proper lighting can help create a calm and comfortable atmosphere for both you and your baby.
First, 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.
Finally, safety is also a consideration when it comes to lighting. Make sure that all cords and outlets are safely tucked away and secured to prevent tripping or electrical hazards
5. 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.
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.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you will likely still be bleeding for a few weeks, so having a few pairs of comfortable and absorbent underwear or postpartum pads on hand is a good idea.
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!
Which of these tips are you going to do first? Did you learn something new today? Let me know in the comments!
I hope reading Getting your Home ready for a Newborn? These 5 unique Ideas, have given you some solid ideas! If you’re still looking for a La Mirada Birth or Newborn Photographer, click here to see my portfolio.
Blessings,
