Two Weeks to Go: A Quick Guide to Prepping Your Home for Your Newborn (part 1)

image shot at Aro Ha

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 twice, I've gathered some unique ideas and tips that you might not have thought of before!

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. And bonus for those with older kids or pets; less stuff = less things they are getting into while you are changing baby’s diaper! 

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 a bookshelf outside the kitchen and the top of my kid’s dresser.  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.”

Turn on some music and make it fun! Ask a friend to come over and help. I know most of us aren’t Marie Kondo - we don’t find joy in the process of decluttering, but I promise you’ll feel more peaceful when it is done.

 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.

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. Also, make sure they are listed as freezing well.

(Optional: suggest some of your favorite meals to batch plan and/or include links to recipes and/or create a freebie download/opt in with the recipe links)

Step 2: Go grocery shopping. Or use InstaCart/Safeway delivery/etc. 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. You might consider adding reheating instructions too, especially if you expect a partner or friend who doesn’t cook to be helping you postpartum.

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? Or low on freezer space? You can hire Second Shift Cook to prep the meals for you, or Mama&Smush to have nutritious meals delivered to you. Both are local to Olympia/Lacey.