We all know the overwhelming feeling of preparing for overnight guests. Expecting parents have the daunting task of preparing for an overnight guest who is never going to leave. And that nesting urge?
IT IS REAL.
The great news is, babies don’t initially need much, and you have time to work on creating the perfect baby proofed home. But these 5 Projects will give you a huge jump-start on that “honey do” list:
Organize and declutter
Moms report that staying on top of cleaning and feeling their home is in order is vital to allowing themselves to relax and focus on healing and bonding with their baby after birth. So… clear out the unnecessary clutter now and free up your home and mind. Think-clothing you no longer wear, old cards/books/magazines you haven’t picked up for over 6 months, unmatched Tupperware. Once you get started, you’ll love the results!
Create a changing station
Babies poop. A LOT. Solution… make sure you are ready with all the diapers, wipes, change of clothes, and pacifiers in one spot. You never want to be running around for items when a blowout happens! (pro tip: wipe warmers are sooo worth it)
Have at least 1 snack station
New babies sleep about 20 hours a day, and when they aren’t sleeping, they are eating. Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle feed, it’s going to take up a lot of your time, and often, feedings are going to happen during your meal times too. Have a snack station set up where you would normally feed baby. Most of the time that will be in the living room or where baby sleeps. Always keep handy, easy to eat items and bottled drinks stocked at all times. Trail mix, apples, dried fruit, pretzels, bananas, waters, and the occasional sweet treats are easy solutions.
Meal prep 1-2 weeks of freezer meals
New parents are tired, often live far away from family, and many times return to work soon after the birth of their baby. Prepping meals ahead of your birth is probably the biggest favor you can do for yourself. This could be by way of asking friends to each make you one dish they love or hitting Pinterest for amazing recipes. Meal prepping is a fun way to involve your partner in the excitement of your new arrival. Click here to see our favorite freezer meal ideas!
Get your car maintained
The last thing you want is to break down or run out of gas on the way to deliver your baby or when leaving the hospital with your precious bundle. So, have your car checked out, and make sure to keep the tank topped by your 37th week of pregnancy.
