5 Unique ways to prepare your home for a new baby in just 14 days

Are you expecting a new baby in the next few weeks? We totally get it, the anticipation can be exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! As moms who have been through the newborn phase 8 times, we’ve gathered some unique ideas and tips that you might not have thought of before!

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 us, but we feel SO much better when we declutter our spaces.

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 us, that’s always been closets, laundry rooms, and bedrooms. Find a new place for these items to go so they stop piling up!

Step 3: Let’s “Marie Kondo” your stuff! 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! 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.

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. 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.

(Optional: suggest some of your favorite meals to batch plan and/or include

links to recipes and/or create a freebie download/opt in with the recipe links)

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!

Psst: wanna skip the cooking? You can look into Allianna’s Kitchen to prep the meals to have nutritious meals delivered to you!

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…? Our best tip would be to set these items up on Amazon Subscribe and Save so they’ll show up on your doorstep and you never have to worry about running out those first few months with your newborn!

We also both love Target Circle 360! Keep your eye on the price, because they often run specials. You get a year of free Target delivery, plus a Shipt subscription to get free delivery from other local grocery stores!

4. Put together a baby care basket

A baby care basket, or sometimes called a “downstairs” basket is a lifesaver those first few weeks home with a new baby. 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.

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.

5. Light your home the right way

Maybe this is important to me because we’re photographers, but lighting is one we 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.

6. 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. 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 us know in the comments!