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 your Sun Prairie Newborn Photographer, and mama to 3 kiddos, I’ve rounded up my top 5 tips for getting your home ready for your new arrival in just two weeks. 

Sun Prairie Newborn Photographer

Declutter your home | Sun Prairie Newborn Photographer

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 me, but I feel SO much better when I declutter my space and it is always worth the effort for me!

Here are some steps to follow to declutter before baby arrives:

• Choose two or three rooms that you frequent most often (most likely this will be your living room, kitchen and bedroom).
• Start by noticing where things tend to pile up. For me, that’s always been corner of the kitchen counter and our bedroom dresser.  Find a new place for these items to go so they stop piling up!
• 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?” 
• Make 3 piles, “Keep, Donate, Toss” and put everything into 1 of those piles.
• Organize the “keep” items, throw away the “toss” items (or recycle if possible) and give away the “donate.”
• Turn on an audiobook, your favorite podcast or some music and make it fun! And you can always ask a friend to come over and help.

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. 

Stock Your Freezer with Meals | Sun Prairie Newborn Photographer

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:

• 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.
• Go grocery shopping. Try to do this a few days before you plan to start cooking, so you have everything you need on hand.
• 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! 
• 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.
• 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! Here’s a couple Freezer Meal Recipes to get you started!

Or, if you still want to cook, but want someone else to handle the planning and shopping for you, give your local meal kits from Isthmus Eats or Pasture & Plenty a try! 

Stock up on essentials (& not just baby essentials) | Sun Prairie Newborn Photographer

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! 

Put together a baby care basket | Sun Prairie Newborn Photographer

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. 

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. 

These little bins from Target are perfect for this, and we still use them for toys and organization, and this is what I kept them stocked with!

Light your Home | Sun Prairie Newborn Photographer

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 (with a foot switch it easiest when you have a baby in your arms)? 
• What about small wall plug in lights to help light the way in the halls for the middle of the night?
• Maybe a dimmer switch for the overhead lights? 

The right lighting can help frustrating or overly stimulating situations feel much more calm and peaceful. 

Here are some great lighting options!

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. 

Prepare YOUR wardrobe | Sun Prairie Newborn Photographer

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. 

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! 

There you have it! As your Sun Prairie Newborn Photographer, I hope you found this helpful in feeling ready to welcome your new baby. And if you’re interested in booking a Maternity or Newborn Photography session, reach out today!

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