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! I’ve rounded up my top 5 Tips for getting your home ready for your new arrival in just two weeks. After working as a SW London newborn photographer, with over 200 mums for their newborn photoshoots,
I’ve learned a thing or two, and have selected 5 ways to prepare your home for your newborn that you may not have considered yet!
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.
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 my living 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, piles.“Keep, Donate, Toss”. Put everything into 1 of those
Step 5: Organise 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.
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.
Step 2: Go grocery shopping. 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.
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.
3. Stock up on essentials (& not just baby essentials)
You’re likely already thinking about things like nappies, wipes, bottles, etc. But have you considered stocking up on regular household items like paper towels, toilet paper, dishwasher tablets and washing powder?
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!
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 the baby, so you’re not running around from room to room getting the things you need.
5. 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. As a Surrey newborn photographer, I hear this a great deal from new mums wishing that they had prepared more.
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.
Four shops that have been recommended by mums to me are – NEXT, Jo Jo Maman Bebe, H&M and John Lewis. Top tip – buy maternity clothing which can then be used for a few months after birth.
To find out more about your SW London newborn photographer – click here
