5 Simple Steps to Prepare Your Home for Your Newborn's Arrival |  Boston 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! I've rounded up my top 5 tips for getting your home ready for your new arrival in just two weeks. As a mom who's been through the newborn phase # times, I've gathered some unique ideas and tips that you might not have thought of before!


A candid moment between parent and child standing by a wooden stool with pink flowers in the corner.
Expectant mother in white shirt and jeans sits with small child beside floral arrangements on white floor.
A pregnant woman in a white shirt and jeans holds a delicate bouquet of baby's breath flowers against a neutral background.

Number One: 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 did not come natural to me before kids, but it’s definitely become more routine now and I feel SO much better when I declutter my space. It is always worth the effort for me!



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 the kitchen table.   Find a new place for these items to go so they stop piling up!

 

Step 3: Let’s “Marie Kondo” your stuff! (Optional: 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. My oldest is now four, so by getting her involved by letting her sweep, clean windows with me, or tidy her toys I’m teaching her some life skills while also getting an extra set of hands.

 

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. 


A parent and toddler sit on a white floor next to pink floral arrangements in terracotta pots.

Number Two: Batch cook (yes, chef!)

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. I love a good sheet pan meal (tonsss of ideas on Pinterest). I also always have fruits, veggies & protein ready to go in my fridge for busy times. Sticking to low inflammatory, high fiber, high protein options will especially help make sure you and your family are getting high quality nutrition during this busy time

 

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. My favorite mom hack? Instacart. I know grocery delivery is not for everyone, but if you’re looking to buy back some of your time this is one of my biggest tips.

 

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, family member, or enthusiastic toddler 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!


Check out #3, 4, and 5 here.