Are you expecting a new arrival? Congratulations! Bringing a new life into the world is an amazing feat and one that comes with a lot of preparation. Here are some helpful tips on how to get ready for your baby’s arrival.
Have Parenting Supplies on Hand
As new parents, you’ll need just as many supplies as your baby, so don’t forget to prepare yourselves too. New mothers should invest in a high-quality breast pump bra. These bras are convenient, as they help you pump and feed your baby. Breast pump bras are hands-free, which is excellent for a multi-tasking mother. They also offer adjustable compression to fit your body perfectly.
You may also want to get a few books that detail the ins and outs of raising a child. These books are helpful for first-time parents as they highlight many crucial aspects of introducing a newborn into your life. These books discuss feeding, napping, and other essential baby habits. Also, take some time to think about the new conveniences you’ll need. Raising a baby takes up much of your time, so having simple ways to cook dinner or take care of yourselves is important. Some appliances to consider include an instant coffee maker, an instant pot, or a tub replacement for long relaxing baths.
Have Baby Supplies on Hand
It’s a good idea to start stocking up on supplies right away, so you’re prepared for your new baby. Having everything you need will make the transition to parenthood a lot easier. Remember that you will need diapers, wipes, and clothes as a priority. Purchasing a lot of these items is a good idea, so you don’t have to run to the store every time you run out. You will especially go through a lot of diapers and wipes, so it’s a good idea to overestimate how much you’ll need rather than underestimate.
You will also need plenty of clothes. Newborns grow quickly, so you will likely need to buy new clothes often in the early months. If you have a baby shower, consider asking your guests to provide a variety of clothes, including both winter and summer styles. You will also need a lot of other supplies, like a crib, car seat, and stroller. These items tend to get pricy, so be sure to add them to your baby shower registry if you have one.
Don’t forget about baby formula and bottles. Even if you choose to breastfeed, having formula on hand is helpful on days when you can’t produce as much milk. It’s also beneficial to have several bottles on hand, as you’ll be using them a lot. Consider getting a few education toys for your baby before they’re born. Even if they’re not old enough to use them yet, it’s helpful to have them available when you need them.
Baby-proof Your Home
It’s never too early to start baby-proofing your home. You’ll want to ensure all of your electrical cords are out of reach for babies under six months old. You’ll also want to remove any small objects they could choke on, such as coins, buttons, and batteries. Once your baby becomes a toddler, you’ll want to continue to baby-proof your electrical cords and child-proof your cabinets and windows. You’ll also want to make sure they can’t reach any stairs. And as your child continues to grow, you’ll want to child-proof your oven, stove, and other appliances. Also, make sure they can’t reach any cleaning supplies.
Try to set up a nursery as soon as possible. This can include buying a crib, mattress, sheets, blankets, clothes, diapers, wipes, and other necessary items. You should also consider what kind of decor you want in the nursery and whether you want any special features like a rocker or glider chair. Getting rid of clutter will help you focus on caring for your baby while eliminating tripping hazards and added stress.
There are many different things to do in preparation for a new baby’s arrival, but one of the most important is to create a welcoming environment for the new family member. Keep these tips in mind when preparing for your new loved one.
