Are you expecting a new baby in the next few weeks? I get it, the anticipation can be exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Here are 5 simple steps to prepare for your newborn and their arrival that you may not have considered yet.

5 Simple Steps to Prepare for Your Newborn’s Arrival

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 prepare your home for your newborn’s arrival.

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 laundry on a chair in my room. 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?”

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.”

Turn on some music and make it fun! Or ask a friend to come over and help. Mess often makes me feel tired and a little overwhelmed. I love seeing the progress as I go along, and a clean room is much more restful and relaxing! I like to listen to an audiobook while cleaning.

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

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 preparing to welcome your newborn into the world. You’ll thank yourself later!

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. My family loves frozen lasagna or crockpot marinated chicken. Both are easy meals to prep ahead of time and throw in the oven or crockpot when you need them.

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.

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. Consider getting the help of a friend or family member to make it more fun!

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.

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!

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, shampoo, or body wash?

Stocking up on items you know you go through often can make it easier on you and your husband after the baby comes. After your precious newborn arrives, prepping ahead of time allows you to take time to bond with your baby and heal.

If you don’t want to stock up on items, then setting up a subscription can be helpful. That way, you don’t have to remember to order any items you need regularly.

If any of these tips were helpful for you, be on the lookout for part 2!

Meanwhile, take a look at how to choose your outfits for your next newborn session HERE.