Having a new baby is a very exciting and transformative experience in life. But it can also feel really overwhelming, especially when you’re facing a long checklist of tasks to complete before your little one arrives. The weeks leading up to your due date are so important for getting everything in order while also enjoying these last moments before you welcome your little one into the world.
But honestly, preparing for your baby in advance can make your labor and delivery a smoother, much less stressful experience. Whether this is your first child or you’re adding to your growing family (like me!), this guide is full of all the essential things you need to do before your baby arrives.
20 Things To Do Before Baby Arrives
Create a birth plan.
A birth plan outlines all of your preferences for labor and delivery. Make sure you include important details like pain management, people in the room, and post-birth care. I think drafting it by about the 30th week of pregnancy is helpful, because it allows you plenty of time to revisit it and discuss it with your healthcare provider.
Pack your hospital bag.
Pack your hospital bag around 35 weeks. Include comfortable clothes, toiletries, a phone charger, snacks, a nursing bra, and baby clothes for bringing your baby home. Don’t forget important documents and, of course, your birth plan! This hospital bag checklist is super helpful if you’re not sure where to begin. Like I said in this video, even if you’d had babies before, you might still forget!
Install the car seat.
Installing your car seat early ensures that you’re not in a rush on delivery day. Practice securing it, adjusting it, and check that it’s properly installed. Many hospitals won’t let you leave without a properly installed car seat. This car seat finder tool can be super helpful, too.
Take childbirth classes.
Whether this is your first time or you just need a little refresher, childbirth classes are a great resource to help you understand what to expect during labor and delivery. They’ll also go over some breathing techniques, partner support, pain management, and answer any questions you may have. Enroll whenever you’d like, but most women wait until the 28-week mark.
Arrange help from family and friends.
Speak to your loved ones and line up support. See who can assist with errands, meals, and older siblings during the early postpartum days.
Wash and organize baby clothes.
Wash all baby clothes in baby-friendly detergent. Organize by size and type so that you can easily find what you need during the first few sleep-deprived weeks.
Set up the baby’s room or sleeping area.
Whether you choose a crib or bassinet, set it up at least a month before your due date. Make sure it meets all safety standards and only has a firm mattress with a fitted sheet.
Choose a pediatrician.
Research and visit potential pediatricians well before your due date. Many will allow a prenatal consultation to meet you and go over the answers to any questions you have.
Prepare freezer meals.
Freezing meals that you enjoy in advance can be a lifesaver, especially during the first few weeks. Choose easy, nutritious recipes that can be reheated quickly.
Stock up on household essentials.
Don’t forget to stock up on cleaning supplies, paper towels, toilet paper, and other essentials. You don’t want to run out of basic essentials when you’re adjusting to newborn life.
Make plans for older siblings.
If you have older children at home, create a plan for them too. Help them feel involved with the new baby by talking about it, reading books together, and letting them help set things up and get ready for their new sibling!
Finalise maternity leave and work plans.
Confirm your maternity leave details, notify your employer, and set up any out-of-office plans or email replies. Wrapping up work early can help you avoid stress.
Keep up with prenatal appointments.
Continue seeing your healthcare provider often. They’ll monitor both yours and your baby’s health and keep you informed as you prepare for labor and delivery.
Learn about breastfeeding, which means pumping and nursing.
This is more for first-time moms, but even a mom of four may change her plans for the next baby! Take the time to become informed about breastfeeding, which means both pumping and nursing. A lactation consultation with our friendly team can help you navigate pumping and nursing, positioning, latching, and how to use a breast pump properly. For help choosing a pump, check out this guide on the different types of breast pumps.
Set up a diaper change station.
Designate a space in your home for diaper changes. Stock it with diapers, wipes, creams, and extra clothes for convenience during those frequent newborn changes.
Babyproof your home.
While your baby won’t actually become mobile for several months, starting to babyproof as soon as you can is a good idea. Secure furniture, cover any outlets, and store cleaning supplies in a safe, locked space.
Prepare your pets.
If you have pets, it's important to help them adjust by introducing baby sounds or smells slowly. Make gradual changes to their routines before the baby comes so it doesn’t feel overwhelming for them once the baby arrives and their environment starts to shift.
Create a contact list.
List who to call when labor starts, including your family members, healthcare provider, and whoever is going to watch your home or pets while you’re in hospital.
Do a trial run to the hospital.
Practice the drive to your hospital so you know how long it takes and where to park. It’s also super helpful to know what entrances you need to use and where traffic may back up.
Confirm hospital pre-registration.
Many hospitals allow you to pre-register to speed up the check-in process when you arrive. Call or check online with your chosen hospital to complete this step.
What To Have Ready Before Baby Comes
Diapers
Stock up on both newborn and size 1 diapers. You can expect to go through around 8-10 per day in the early weeks.
Wipes
Choose fragrance-free baby wipes and buy in bulk to save money (and time) if you can. You’ll use them for literally every baby care need including spit-ups, diaper changes, and quick clean-ups.
Baby Clothes
Have several sleepers, onesies, mittens, beanies, and socks. Babies can often go through multiple outfit changes per day.
Swaddles and Blankets
Swaddles help to soothe newborns and encourage sleep. Have a few around the house for when you need them.
Breast Pump
If you’re breastfeeding, a good breast pump is absolutely essential. Check if your insurance will cover one, and read my blog on how to choose the right breast pump. Also, check out The Ultimate Pumping Course to guide you on your stress-free pumping journey. The course can help you feel empowered, seen, and ready to conquer the world!
Bottles and Formula (if needed)
Whether pumping or nursing, bottles can be handy. They can allow your partner or other loved ones to feed the baby when you need a shower or rest.
Burp Cloths
Have at least 6-10 burp cloths clean at all times, ready to clean up spit-ups or dribbles.
Baby Gear
Essential baby gear includes a bouncer or swing, baby carrier, stroller, and safe place to sleep.
Diaper Bag
Choose a handy diaper bag with multiple compartments for wipes, diapers, clothes, and feeding supplies. Make sure it’s always packed and ready to grab and go!
First Aid Kit
Include baby nail clippers, a nasal aspirator, a thermometer, and any infant medications approved by your doctor.
Pumping and Nursing Supplies
Grab some nipple balm, nursing pads, and a nice, comfortable nursing pillow to help make the journey easier. Keeping your pumping essentials close by makes the whole process much for manageable.
Toiletries
Have gentle baby soap, shampoo, lotion, and some washcloths ready to bathe your little one.
Cleaning Supplies
You’ll be doing a lot of laundry and sanitizing. Have baby-safe laundry detergent, surface cleaners, and bottle brushes on hand.
Crib and Bassinet
Ensure your crib and bassinet is assembled to the current safety standards. Consider having a few fitted sheets to keep a clean rotation going.
White Noise Machine
A white noise machine helps to soothe little ones and encourages better sleep by mimicking womb sounds.
Night Light
A night light is essential to make middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes much easier. It can help to keep the ambiance calm and low so that your little one doesn’t fully wake.
Baby Monitor
Choose a high-quality baby monitor to help you keep an eye on your baby from another room.
Prepare for your little one with this list!
Preparing for a little one to join your family takes time and planning, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By tackling these tasks ahead of your due date, you can be prepared and set yourself up for a more relaxed, confident experience. Whether it’s learning about pain management, packing your hospital bag, or choosing a stroller, every step brings you closer to your little one.
Don’t forget, it’s totally okay to lean on your loved ones, take time to rest, and celebrate this incredible journey. Some positive affirmations may also help you along the way. And if you’re looking for a supportive, safe space, head to the One With The Pump blog. You got this, mama!
