6 Simple Steps to Prepare Your Home for Your Newborn’s Arrival-Hamilton County, Indiana Doula & Photographer Part 2

Welcome Back! If you haven’t had a chance to read part 1 you can do that here. You wont want to miss my first 3 tips. As a mom of 3 littles myself, these tips helped me have an easier first couple of weeks home with my newborn. I was able to snuggle, bond and heal and not have to worry about the day to day household duties.

Okay, Let’s get back to it.

4. Put together a baby care basket 

I have talked about this before But having a baby care basket that is easily accessible in different places of the house makes baby care a little bit easier. 

Oftentimes, you’re in one space with the baby for most of the day and find yourself “trapped” under a sleeping baby without the supplies you need!

A baby care basket can solve that for you. Basically, it’s 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. 

Usually, the baby care basket includes diapers, wipes, burp cloths, extra clothes, pacifiers, and anything else you might need for the baby frequently.

I also like to think about including things for mom like nipple cream, breast pads, Chapstick, etc.  And stash a couple of snacks in there too.  That way when you are snuggling that sweet baby and need a quick snack.  It will be easily accessible. 

In addition to keeping, you from running from room to room, a baby care basket will help you stay organized and keep your home clutter free. 

I set up a baby caddy upstairs in my room and downstairs in the living room.  That’s where I was most those first few weeks of having a newborn. In addition to all the baby care Items, I always had ChapStick, bottled water and kind bars.  

5. Light your home the right way

I know, I know I’m a photographer and that’s why im obsessed with light.  However, I am talking about light that is functional and makes the first few weeks at home easer.  So, maybe this is important to me because I’m a photographer, I don’t know 😉 but lighting is a comfort 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 a little calmer and more peaceful. 
The light plugs are especially helpful for those night feeding.  They give off enough light to see where you are going, but not so much that it overstimulates your baby.

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. 

6. Prepare YOUR wardrobe

Of course, we’re thinking a lot about how to prepare for the baby, but don’t forget about yourself! I don’t know about you but I get a little pep in my step when I feel good in my clothes. 

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.  Having item that are supportive during the healing process is important too.  I love these bloomers from BaoBei they are supportive for your core and pelvic floor.  They are also super soft.

Consider investing in a few nursing bras (I like the pull down kind BaoBei has some of these too), loose-fitting pants or leggings that are supportive are great, 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. Maxi dresses that can be pulled down from the top are a great option for the summer and cozy oversized sweaters are good for the winter.

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. Men’s boxer briefs are super soft and breathable.  I also like period underwear.

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

I Hope you found the tips in 6 Simple Steps to Prepare Your Home for Your Newborn’s Arrival helpful. If you haven’t had a chance to read part one you can do that here.The postpartum period can feel overwhelming, but there are things you can do now to help have a more relaxed postpartum. If you would like postpartum support I do offer virtual support. You can check out my services here.

Which of these tips are you going to try first? My favorite tip is definitely the freezer meals. I still have freezer meals during busy seasons of my life.

Did you learn something new today? Let me know in the comments!