Preparing for the Arrival of Your Baby? Get Everything Sorted with Our Checklist

Counting down to the upcoming arrival of your baby also brings a wave of tasks to get in order before the fateful day. Whether you are only gearing up for nesting mode or already embracing the mindset of a warm and ready welcome, mothercare has just the checklist for a smoother transition. Avoid the chaos and last-minute rush by following our guide that covers everything from ensuring home comfort, baby-proofing, to preparing for the hospital trip and beyond!

Creating a Comfortable Nest

Establishing a comfortable and welcoming environment before your baby’s arrival is crucial for the well-being of both parents and child. A thoughtfully organised space not only minimises stress but also enables you to focus entirely on caregiving. 

Set Up a Nursery

Designing a successful nursery involves making practical decisions regarding safety, storage, comfort, personal aesthetic preferences, and furniture for various functions. Mapping out a floor plan before diving into the details for furniture and decor can help you optimise your space better.

Deep Clean the House

Newborns can be highly sensitive to bacteria and allergens as their immune systems have not yet fully developed. Declutter and conduct a thorough deep cleaning of your home to eliminate dust, mould, grime and potential contaminants that pose a risk of illness. 

Clear Out Your Fridge

Clearing out your fridge not only creates a less hospitable environment for germs but frees up space for postpartum necessities such as breast milk, formula and make-ahead meals. It’ll also be a good time to check for and donate any perishable items that may not be consumed by the time the baby arrives.

Stocking Up on Baby Essentials

Stocking up on baby essentials in advance is a straightforward and unspoken strategy that safeguards you from last-minute trips to the store. Beyond getting more rest, this extra time also allows you to make calculated purchases, including selecting more sustainable or economic options.

Organising your inventory from bump to baby? In addition to this guide, we also have a pocket-sized checklist that you can print and take with you during shopping trips. Download it here.

Bath and Babycare 

Consider all your newborn’s bath and hygiene needs. Towels, toiletries (shampoo, body wash, lotion), a baby bathtub, baby wipes, a soft-bristled hairbrush, cotton balls, are among products that are integral to their care. 

Clothing

There are many innovative baby clothes designed to accommodate babies’ everyday activities, providing convenience for parents. Explore bodysuits that come with nickel-free poppers and sleepsuits that not only protect and keep little toes warm with their toe-safe design, but are paired with integral scratch mitts that shield tender skin from sharp nails. There’s even all-in-ones with interlock knit that remain soft and stretchy after each wash.

Diapers

Diapers help babies with their waste and hygiene until they are ready for potty training. The initial months are the most demanding, with diaper changes occurring up to ten times a day. Choose between cloth diapers that are eco- and budget-friendly; or disposable ones that offer convenience and quick and easy disposal.

Furniture and Bedding

Remember nursery planning? While shopping for baby essentials, keep an eye out for solutions and items that can enhance your comfortable and safe space. This should include a baby crib, dresser, changing unit, glider, a firm and breathable crib mattress, as well as soft and snug bedding. 

Feeding and Sterilisation

Soothers, bottles, breast pumps, and sterilisers are key in feeding, but remember to include essential accessories like bottle brushes, sterilising tablets, and baby-safe soap.

Baby Monitor and Thermometer

A baby monitor is an all-seeing eye and more for mums and dads who aren’t in the immediate vicinity of their child. These nifty gadgets let you talk to your baby, monitor their breathing, and can even help you detect the temperature in your nursery. On the other hand, baby thermometers help you track your baby’s temperature to ensure their health and well-being. 

Toys

Infants need toys too. Invest in age-appropriate toys to pique your child’s interest and stimulate their senses for growth. Plush toys lend comfort, and teething toys relieve sore gums a bit later into their development.

Travel-Friendly Gear

Whether it’s en route from the hospital or dropping off your baby at their grandparents’, travel-friendly gear is a must-have for all parents. Think baby carriers, lightweight strollers, and car seats – and other essentials like bottle warmers, changing pads, diaper bags, and even portable breast pumps and sterilisers.

Baby-Proofing Your Home

 

Your newest addition to the family requires some safety measures. Here are some pointers on what to look out for when eliminating potential hazards and preventing mishaps. 

Position Crib and Furniture

There are many considerations that go into crib placement. For one, always position your crib near the door for quick access. Ensure the crib is out of reach of potential hazards, such as heavy or dangling items and small parts. When leaving the baby unattended, steer clear of loose blankets, bedding and plush toys to eliminate risk of suffocation. Additionally, secure any wobbly furniture or items that could be toppled or grabbed when your baby begins to toddle around.

Door Stoppers, Safety Latches and Window Guards

Nobody likes getting their fingers wedged. Install door stoppers to avoid little fingers getting caught, and safety latches to keep them from poking around. If your window doesn’t come with appropriate grilles, fit them with window guards to prevent climbing and falls.

Edge Protectors and Outlet Covers

Edge protectors are designed to cover sharp corners, shielding against severe bumps and cuts, especially when furniture is at child height. Meanwhile, outlet covers serve to stop kids from inserting their fingers or random objects into the sockets. 

Secure Heavy Items and Remove Small Objects

Just like furniture, heavy objects should be properly anchored to prevent tipping over. There are adhesive and no-drill options for this purpose. Additionally, to avoid choking hazards, it’s best to remove all small objects within the child’s reach. 

Baby Gates

Installing baby gates proves imperative when your little one starts exploring. Cordon off restricted areas like the kitchen and block stairs in case of unexpected tumbles or accidents, providing an extra layer of protection for your curious explorer.

Preparing for the Big Day

 

A well-thought-out plan not only brings peace of mind before delivery but also ensures a smoother arrival. This readiness allows you to fully immerse yourself in the transcendent and rare experience of childbirth, and the days that follow it. Furthermore, it reduces the likelihood of unanticipated challenges caused by oversight, facilitating a more enjoyable transition into parenthood. 

Create a Birth Plan

A birth plan is a written document that outlines your ideals and preferences for your labour and delivery. This unofficial guide is valuable for those directly involved in your birth, such as your partner and obstetrician-gynaecologist (obgyn). Drafting one can assist you in shaping a gratifying birthing experience, encompassing your choices for pain management, labour environment, delivery methods and more. 

Devise an Emergency Plan

Childbirth can be unpredictable. While it’s impossible to list every thinkable and unthinkable scenario, preparing contingency plans will allow you to navigate through these unforeseen circumstances more effectively. Consider aspects like medical interventions (inductions, caesarean sections) and the next best option if your first isn’t available.

Packing Your Hospital Bag

The hospital bag should include necessities for three essential individuals – the mother, baby, and the support person. Begin by organising crucial paperwork, and consolidate toiletries and skincare items along with comfortable clothing for all. Add maternity pads, nursing bras, and pads. Pack for the baby with diapers, wipes, and blankets. Don’t overlook extra clothes for leaving the hospital, and make sure not to forget a car seat for the trip home!

This compact checklist compiles the indispensable items to guarantee a hitch-free hospital stay. 

Sort Out Your Maternity Leave

Maternity leave is a sensitive topic, but addressing it with clear communication and responsible planning can streamline the process. Take the time to familiarise yourself with your rights and openly discuss how you will ensure a seamless handover before your absence. Uphold transparency regarding the duration of your planned leave and expected return date so both parties can make arrangements accordingly.

Postpartum Planning

 

The learning curve associated with welcoming another child or becoming new parents can be steep. With forethought, postpartum planning helps to ease some of the fear and burden by providing a better sense of control.  

Enlist a Support Network

Your parenting journey doesn’t have to begin in isolation. Identify family members or even close friends who can help you and your partner through the delicate postpartum period. If you already have children, this can be a timely opportunity to gradually introduce them to new responsibilities as older siblings.

Delegate Duties 

With your partner and support network, communicate the roles and duties they can undertake to assist you along the way. 

Prepare Meals in Advance

If you don’t have a helper, confinement nanny, or a loved one who can cook meals for you, making ahead meals can alleviate the time and effort involved in cooking, making postpartum caregiving more manageable. 

Research Postpartum Care and Complications

Adjusting to a postpartum lifestyle can present previously unknown difficulties, particularly in mental health. Understanding and acknowledging these feelings can make the transition post-birth less stressful while fostering a supportive environment for both the new parent and baby. 

Make Plans for Self-Care

Prioritising self-care is important amid the whirlwind of welcoming a new child. Utilise the moments when the baby is asleep to rest, accept assistance from others, and actively seek support when required. Staying connected with friends and family, and carving out dedicated time for self-care, fosters both physical and mental well-being, contributing to a more mindful and healthier family dynamic.

Final Thoughts

Indeed, getting ready for a baby is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning, it becomes entirely achievable. If you have covered everything on this checklist, take a moment to review and ensure all has been laid out. And most importantly, give yourself a pat on the back and some well-deserved rest before the big day arrives! 

In addition to this handy checklist, mothercare serves as a convenient one-stop shop for parents and caregivers to find everything they need pre- and post-natal. Discover the range of offerings available on our website today, and embrace parenthood with excitement and anticipation.