6 Simple Steps to Prepare Your Home for Your Newborn's Arrival | Overland Park Newborn Photographer

Are you expecting a new baby in the next few weeks? I totally get it, the anticipation can be exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. But don't worry, I've got your back! As a mom who's been through the newborn phase 3 times, I've gathered some unique ideas and tips that you might not have thought of before!

1. De-clutter your home

De-cluttering 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 de-cluttering has always been overwhelming for me, but I feel SO much better when I de-clutter my space. It is always worth the effort for me!)

Here are some steps to follow to de-clutter 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 the kitchen counter.  Find a new place for these items to go so they stop piling up!

Step 3: Let’s “Marie Kondo” your stuff! 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! Ask a friend to come over and help. The feeling of having a tidy home is so peaceful and relaxing. It’s like pressing a reset button. De-cluttering provides mental clarity, reduces stress, and opens up space for new opportunities and memories. It's the greatest feeling for me!

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. Mique from 30Days has a wonderful blog with tips on freezer meals along with delicious recipe ideas. Check out her 19 Deliciously Healthy Chicken Crockpot Freezer Meals blog for more ideas.

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? Let Dream Dinners Midwest do the work for you! They'll prep and deliver delicious, nutritious meals right to your door. Plus, they're budget-friendly and offer options to fit every family's needs.

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…? My 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! If you do run low, curbside pickup at your local grocery store such as Target, Walmart, or Sam's Club is a lifesaver. You can even send a friend or family member to grab your order while you rest and recover.

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. I also like to think about including things for mom like nipple cream, breast pads, chapstick, etc. As a c-section momma, having a portable baby care basket made a world of difference. I could easily carry it with me as I moved from room to room, avoiding unnecessary trips and keeping everything organized. Plus, it helps prevent clutter from piling up since all your essentials have a designated spot.

5. Light your home the right way

Maybe this is important to me because I’m a photographer, I don’t know 😉 but lighting is one 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 completely transform a space. Especially during those overwhelming or overstimulating moments. Soft, warm lighting creates a calming atmosphere that helps everyone feel more at ease.

I personally love having lamps throughout my home. I keep one on the kitchen counter, in the living room, and in each bedroom. The cozy glow they give off sets such a peaceful tone in every space—it truly sets the ambiance.

These are some of my favorite outlets that have a built in night light that you can use around your home such as baby's nursery and even in your hallways, bathrooms and kitchen for that extra touch of light in the middle of the night. You can also find great lamp options at Target and Homegoods.

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 when I feel good nothing can stop me! And that starts with getting dressed in the morning, right?!

Preparing your wardrobe for the first 2-3 weeks postpartum is an important step in getting ready for the arrival of your new baby. Choose pieces that make you feel relaxed and cozy, whether you're snuggling your newborn, or catching up on rest.

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. Prioritize pieces that make you feel good, both physically and emotionally.

Need help finding stylish and cozy options? Check out these mom-favorite online boutiques:

• Kindred Bravely – Known for ultra-soft loungewear and nursing-friendly basics.

• Storq – Minimal, comfy essentials designed specifically for motherhood.

• Hatch – Chic, elevated pieces that work during pregnancy and postpartum.

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.

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.

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!

I hope reading 6 Simple Steps to Prepare Your Home For Your Newborn's Arrival has given you some solid ideas! If you’re still looking for a Overland Park Newborn Photographer, click here to see my portfolio of newborn images.

Which of these tips are you going to do first? Did you learn something new today? Let me know in the comments!