How to Prepare for Bringing a Newborn Home

Being organized ahead of time ensures less stress for the big event of bringing a baby home from the hospital. Here’s how to prepare.

Things You'll Need

• Pad of Paper
• Pen

Instructions

1. Put the finishing touches on the nursery. If you have any unfinished business in the nursery, make sure to complete it soon. Some new moms think they’ll have time once the baby arrives, which isn’t always realistic.

2. Decide where your baby will sleep. Many parents elect to have their new baby sleeping in their room for the first several months. Set up the bassinet and launder several sheets so you’ll be ready.

3. Once your nursery is complete, it’s time to stock up on baby items. This includes diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream, baby soap and moisturizers. Once your baby arrives, you won’t want to deal with organizing these items.

4. Get your house just the way you like it. You are so tired and preoccupied with getting to know your little one, there’s no time for housework. There aren't enough hours in the day to do everything. Make peace about letting a few things go.

5. Prepare your dogs. If you have animals, bringing home the baby will be an adjustment. Allow your dog to get used to the baby’s items but never allow chewing or playing with the baby’s toys or clothes. When your little one is born, have a friend introduce the baby’s scent to your dog. This can be achieved by presenting the baby’s hat or piece of clothing to your dog.

Tips & Warnings

• Pack a take-home outfit in a couple sizes. Your doctor may have a guess on how big the baby will be, but until the special day, it’s a mystery. If you end up with a 10-pound baby, you don’t want to be stuck with an outfit that won’t fit.

• Pack your bag a month before delivery. In most cases, you won’t need your hospital bag this early. But if the occasion arises, you need to be ready.

Resources

• Kids Health
• Ivillage.com