Are you expecting a new baby in the next few weeks? As an Owasso newborn photographer, and mom, I know 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 twice, I’ve gathered some tips that you might not have thought of before!
A baby care 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. You might 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. This way you’re not running around from room to room getting the things you need.
Usually, the basket includes diapers, wipes, burp cloths, extra clothes, pacifiers, and anything else you might need frequently. As an Owasso newborn photographer, this is someting I do in the studio too. I keep a rolling cart with anything I should need, so I dont have to disrupt baby if I forget something.
Don’t forget to include things for mom in the basket. Things like nipple cream, breast pads, chapstick, hand lotion small snacks, etc.
In addition to keeping you from running all over, a baby care basket will help you stay organized and keep your home clutter free.
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 (like the iving room, kitchen and bedroom).
Step 2: Start by noticing where things tend to pile up. For me, that’s always been the kitchen table for me. 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, “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.”
Honestly, the thought of decluttering always overwhelms me but I feel so much better once it’s done. One thing I do to get started is to set a time for 20 min. I tell myself that’s all I have to do today. However, once I get started I usually want to keep going. Also, turn on some music and make it fun! Ask a friend to come over and help.
By following these steps over the course of a weekend, you can create a newborn-ready environment in your own home.
This is where I would honestly flunk. I hate cooking. The thought of cooking a ton of food in one go would make me want to crawl into a hole. However, in these instances batch cooking is a lifesaver! 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. 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 altogether? (that’s more my style) Look into meal prep sites like Home Chef, Blue Apron, or Hello Fresh. You pick the meals and they send you everything you need! Home chef even has meals you just pop in the oven..and they are good!
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!
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 newborn photographer in Owasso, I think this step is extremely important!
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! If you hate shopping or don’t feel up to it try a service like stitch fix. They send you clothes and you have 3 days to try them on and send them back if you dont want them. You can specify what you are looking for. I can honestly say my stitch fix clothes are some of the softest, most comfortable items I own. Even their shoes are comfortable! Use my link to get $25 off with no subscription require and no shipping! Click HERE
Which of these tips are you going to do first? Did you learn something new today? Let me know in the comments!
For more information on my Owasso newborn photography services please click here!