Having a baby is both a miracle and an adventure. It’s more than bringing home a tiny soul to nurture. It’s also about nurturing your own needs, which can get pretty neglected while you’re caring for another human being.
It is a big change for parents, and it can be exciting but anxiety-inducing. Both mom and dad have a lot to do in preparation for their little one’s arrival. Some many items and practices need to be set up before the baby’s first cry. Even when you think you’re prepared, there are always a few more things to do and no one can ever truly prepare you for how much work it is to have a newborn. Therefore, here are four useful tips to help you get ready for your new addition to the family.
Stock Up On Baby Supplies
One of the most important things to do before your baby arrives is to stock up on groceries and necessary baby supplies. This way you won’t have to worry about leaving the house once the baby comes. It’s also a good idea to get organized and label all of your supplies ahead of time, so you know where everything is when you need it.
Some essential items for newborns include diapers, wipes, lotion, shampoo, clothes, onesies, booties, hats, burp cloths, and blankets. You should make sure to buy only quality products that are designed for babies to prevent any skin irritations and rashes. The same goes for stroller, feeding chair and other baby accessories, as you can learn more about that here, it is essential to do your research and purchase the best ones for your needs. Note that some insurance plans cover most of the expenses, but you must meet certain requirements, so make sure to contact your insurance company about this.
Clean Your House From Top To Bottom
Another important thing to do before your baby comes is to thoroughly clean your house. This way, you won’t have any unwanted germs or bacteria reaching your newborn. It’s best if you get the entire place cleaned the week leading up to when your little one arrives. Make sure to do a deep clean of all areas, including carpeting and window coverings, because new babies are very sensitive to household dirt and contaminants. It’s also a good idea to steam clean the furniture and mattresses to get rid of any dust mites or other allergens.
It might be helpful to have a few friends or family members come over to help you clean in the days leading up to the baby’s arrival. This will make the process much quicker and less daunting. You may also consider hiring a professional cleaner to come and do a deep clean for you. The extra help is worth the expense, especially if you’re short on time or energy.
Set Up A Nursery
A nursery is a must for all new babies. Even if you don’t think you’ll be using it for the first few months, it’s still a good idea to set it up ahead of time. This will give you a space to relax and bond with your baby in the early days and nights. Plus, it will make things much easier when the time comes to move your little one into their own room.
There are many different ways to set up a nursery. You can go minimalist and just use a crib and changing table, or you can go all out with a theme and decorate the entire room and add in a rocker or glider. Just make sure that whatever you choose is safe, functional, comfortable, and calming for both you and your baby. Keep in mind that you can always make updates and changes as your baby grows and their needs change.
Baby Proof Your Home
Another important thing to do a few weeks before your baby comes is to baby-proof your home. This means removing or covering all electrical outlets, window guards, and other dangerous objects that may harm them when they start crawling around. Make sure to put away all breakable items in higher spaces so the baby isn’t at risk of breaking anything by accident.
Other things you may want to do include installing a gate at the top of the stairs and putting locks on cabinets that contain poisonous chemicals or other hazardous materials. It’s also a good idea to get a fire extinguisher for the home in case of an emergency. Whatever you do, make sure to take your time and do it correctly. You can’t babyproof your home overnight, so be patient and do it gradually over a few weeks. Talking to a friend and family members who have small children can also be helpful.
Getting ready for your new baby doesn’t need to be complicated or stressful. Nor does it have to wait until the last minute. By following these tips, you can be well prepared for your little one’s arrival. And don’t forget to enjoy this special time with your family and friends and celebrate the new addition to your family.
