Preparing for a baby can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating it all on your own.
The endless to-do lists, decisions, and planning can quickly pile up, leaving you unsure of where to start.
But thanks to the digital world, you’re not really alone.
There’s an amazing community of experienced moms sharing their knowledge and offering guidance, (and I’m one of them).
I’m here to help you prepare for your baby in a way that’s organized, manageable, and tailored to what you truly need, so you can feel confident and ready for this exciting new chapter.
Today, I’m sharing the most important things to do before your baby’s arrival—consider this your ultimate baby prep checklist!
Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or a mix of both, this list will help you stay on track and feel prepared for your little one’s big debut.
This post may contain affiliate links. Full disclosure here.
Make sure to read through the entire blog post because I’ll be sharing plenty of helpful tips along the way, and as a bonus,
you can grab a free printable checklist at the end to make your baby preparation even easier!
Always start with planning
Once, there was a man who decided to go on a spontaneous road trip.
No itinerary, no checklist—just pure excitement and vibes.
He figured, “How hard can it be?”
Well, halfway through, he realized he packed three pairs of sunglasses but no toothbrush.
He also forgot to check his gas tank, so he ended up stranded on a deserted road, snacking on stale chips from under his seat, waiting for a tow truck.
Moral of the story?
A little planning goes a long way—and saves you from chewing on questionable snacks in times of crisis!
When it comes to getting ready for your baby, planning is so important.
This isn’t something you want to do without a plan!
If you’re good at organizing, grab a notebook and start making a list of everything you need.
Alternatively, getting a ready-made baby prep planner can make it much easier.
It will help you remember all the important stuff so you can feel ready and calm before your baby arrives.
1- Invest in a planner
Investing in a ready-made planner is a very smart move.
Think about it—why spend hours figuring out what to do, what to buy, finding random resources on the internet, and figuring out how to organize everything when you can have it all laid out for you by someone who’s been through it already?
How about a planner created by an experienced mom who knows exactly what you need?
I highly recommend The Ultimate Baby Prep Printable Bundle.
This bundle is a total game-changer for expecting moms—it includes everything you need to prepare, from comprehensive checklists and step-by-step to-do lists to a financial planner and even birth plans & birth affirmation templates and much more.
It’s like having a personal guide to help you stay organized and stress-free, ensuring you’re 100% ready for your little one’s arrival!
(I’ll send you a special discount coupon for the planner along with the printable checklist)
Be Sure To Prepare Financially
A lot of people don’t realize how easy it is to overspend on baby products and end up buying things they don’t really need.
Sometimes, they buy duplicates of items they’ve already received as gifts or purchase things they thought were essential, but turn out to be unnecessary.
That’s why planning your finances for baby prep is so important—it helps you stay on track, avoid wasting money, and make sure you’re only buying what you truly need.
2- Make a budget
The first step in preparing financially for your baby is making a budget.
Before you start purchasing anything or adding items to your baby registry, sit down and plan out how much you’re willing to spend.
Go over the baby essentials on Amazon (or your preferred store) and set a budget for each product.
Be sure to prioritize—items like baby daily-use products should be at the top of your list, while cute but non-essential things like tiny booties can be lower down.
Once you’ve got everything sorted, focus most of your budget on the high-priority items, and use the remaining amount for the low-priority ones.
This way, you’ll ensure you’re spending wisely and getting everything you truly need without going overboard.
The ultimate baby prep printable bundle includes a financial planner to help you make a perfect budget and track your expenses.
3- Collect coupons and freebies
Next, start collecting coupons, freebies, and baby product samples!
There are so many great offers out there to help you save.
You can check websites like Target, Walmart, and Amazon, where they often offer baby product coupons.
Signing up for baby registry programs like Babylist or Amazon Baby Registry can also give you access to exclusive discounts and free samples.
Don’t forget to keep a record of the coupons and discounts you find—whether it’s a physical folder or a digital list—so you can easily reference them when it’s time to shop. (The Ultimate Baby Prep Bundle has a sheet where you can save and track coupons)
This will help you stay organized and make sure you don’t miss out on any savings!
- Click here to start your baby registry on Amazon.
- Click here to start your baby registry on BabyList & get a completion discount
4- Start a money-saving challenge
Starting a money-saving challenge as soon as possible is a great way to build a financial cushion for your baby’s first year.
Did you know that the estimated cost of a baby’s first year can range anywhere from $7,000 to $15,000?
Between diapers, baby gear, medical expenses, and the inevitable extra costs, it adds up quickly.
By starting a challenge early, you’ll have time to save gradually, making the whole process less stressful.
Here are a few ideas for money-saving challenges you can start today:
- 52-Week Challenge: Start by saving $1 in the first week, $2 in the second week, and continue increasing by $1 each week. By the end of the year, you’ll have saved over $1,300!
- No-Spend Days: Choose a few days each month where you don’t spend money on non-essentials. Use the money you save towards your baby fund.
- Round-Up Savings: Every time you make a purchase, round it up to the nearest dollar and save the difference. For example, if you buy something for $4.75, you save $0.25. It may seem small, but it adds up over time!
- Envelope Challenge: Label 100 envelopes with amounts from $1 to $100. Each day, pick an envelope and save the amount on it. This can help you save a significant amount over time.
By taking action now, you’ll be able to cover all the essentials for your baby’s first year without the stress of last-minute purchases.
Plus, you’ll build healthy saving habits that will benefit your family long-term!
Get Ready for Shopping
5- Make ULTIMATE shopping lists
Before you start purchasing, take the time to create the ultimate baby shopping list.
This list should include every single item that is available for a baby—whether you plan to purchase it yourself, receive it as a gift, or skip it altogether.
Having a comprehensive list ensures you won’t miss anything important.
This way, you can track what’s already been bought or gifted and focus on what’s left.
It’s the perfect way to stay organized and avoid last-minute panic!
When making your ultimate shopping list, it’s helpful to separate items into categories like baby essentials, nursery needs, and mom care products.
This makes planning and shopping much easier!
The Ultimate Baby Prep Bundle includes the ultimate baby shopping lists so you don’t miss anything at all.
6- Sign up for a baby registry
A baby registry is a list of baby products you’d like to receive as gifts from friends and family.
You can create one at various stores or online retailers, selecting everything from diapers to furniture to cute baby clothes.
Signing up for a baby registry helps you stay organized by allowing you to choose exactly what you need.
It prevents duplicate gifts and ensures you get the essential items on your list.
Plus, many stores offer completion discounts & other perks, so you can save money on any remaining items once your registry is closed.
It’s a win-win for both you and your loved ones!
- Click here to start your baby registry on Amazon.
- Click here to start your baby registry on BabyList & get a completion discount
Set up a baby room
Setting up the baby’s nursery is one task you don’t want to push off.
It might feel like you have plenty of time, but the weeks fly by faster than you think!
Getting started early gives you the chance to create a cozy, functional space without the stress of last-minute preparations.
Plus, it’s one less thing to worry about as the big day approaches!
7- Choose a Theme and Color for nursery
When deciding on a theme and color, think beyond aesthetics—consider how the room will feel for both you and your baby.
Soft, neutral tones promote calmness, while brighter accents can add fun energy. If you’re unsure, go with timeless themes like minimalist, the sky, or nature—they’re easy to adapt as your baby grows.
Use removable wallpaper or decals for an effortless way to change the look later!
8- Get Nursery Furniture
Focus on functional pieces that make your life easier.
For example, look for a crib with built-in drawers or a changing table with shelves underneath.
A rocking chair or glider with side pockets is great for storing books, burp cloths, or feeding essentials.
Test everything for sturdiness and make sure furniture meets current safety standards.
9- Set Up the Zones
Organizing the nursery into zones not only saves time but also helps maintain order.
The sleeping zone should be quiet, dark and safe.
Create a diaper-changing zone with a well-stocked caddy, including diapers, wipes, rash cream, and spare clothes.
In the feeding zone, keep a basket with nursing essentials like burp cloths, a water bottle, and snacks for yourself.
Add a small play or tummy-time area for when your baby starts to move around—it’s a great way to encourage early development.
10- Decorate the Room
When decorating, focus on creating a sensory-friendly space.
Add textures through rugs, soft blankets, and curtains, but avoid anything overly stimulating like busy patterns or harsh lighting.
Consider practical décor like blackout curtains for better naps and wall shelves to save floor space.
Add a small nightlight with a warm glow to make those late-night feeds easier on your eyes.
11- Organize the Storage
Think smart when it comes to storage!
Use drawer dividers for baby clothes so you can easily separate them by size or type.
Hang a pegboard or hooks for items like baby carriers or diaper bags.
If you’re working with a small space, under-crib storage bins or over-the-door organizers can be lifesavers.
You can get some printable labels to organize the storage here.
12- Do a Final Safety Check
Safety should be your top priority.
Anchor furniture like dressers and bookshelves to the wall to prevent tipping.
Cover unused outlets with safety plugs and secure cords with cord organizers.
Double-check the crib spacing—the slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, and avoid placing pillows, blankets, or toys inside.
Walk around the room at your baby’s eye level to spot potential hazards you might otherwise miss!
If you are serious about setting up a practical, stylish and safe nursery room, check out my e-book “No-Fuss Nursery Design E-book”, which allows you to set up a perfect nursery without any fuss.
The Ultimate Baby Prep Bundle includes a baby nursery safety checklist for your peace of mind.
Make Baby Essentials Ready
Getting your baby’s essentials ready is key to feeling organized and prepared for your little one’s arrival.
By making sure everything is set up and in its place, you can avoid unnecessary stress when baby arrives.
13- Install a Car Seat
Installing your car seat should be done around 35-36 weeks to ensure you’re ready. Here are a few tips:
- Read the manuals for both the car seat and your vehicle to understand the installation process.
- Install rear-facing—this is the safest option for your baby until they’re at least 2 years old.
- Make sure it’s tight—use either the seat belt or the LATCH system, but not both, and ensure there’s no movement more than 1 inch.
- Check the level indicator to ensure the seat is at the correct angle for your baby’s safety.
- Practice strapping your baby in to ensure the harness is snug and safe.
For extra peace of mind, have a certified technician check your installation. Doing this ahead of time will ensure you’re ready to roll when the baby arrives!
14- Test the Baby’s Gear
Before your baby arrives, it’s essential to test all your baby gear to make sure it’s safe and sturdy. From strollers to cribs, you want everything to be in top shape.
Here are a few tips:
- Check for Recalls: Always verify that the baby gear hasn’t been recalled. You can check this on the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website.
- Stability Check: For cribs, high chairs, and strollers, make sure everything is stable and won’t tip over easily. Give it a gentle shake to check for sturdiness.
- Harness and Straps: Ensure that all harnesses, straps, and buckles are secure and easy to adjust. The last thing you want is a malfunction during use.
- Test the Functionality: Take the stroller for a test run and adjust the car seat’s recline position. Make sure everything moves smoothly and is easy to operate.
Testing your baby gear ahead of time means fewer surprises later on, ensuring both you and your baby are safe and ready for all the adventures ahead!
15- Wash Baby Clothes
Wash your baby clothes, blankets, and sheets a couple of weeks before your due date to avoid last-minute stress.
It’s best to use a mild, fragrance-free detergent designed for babies, like Dreft Stage 1: Newborn Liquid Detergent as it is gentle on sensitive skin.
Prepare for yourself as well
As much as we focus on getting everything ready for the baby, it’s important to remember that you, as the mom, need to be prepared too.
Many new moms forget to plan for their own needs amidst the excitement of baby prep, but taking care of yourself is just as crucial for a smooth transition into motherhood.
16- Prepare a Postpartum Kit
A postpartum kit is a lifesaver during the first few weeks after birth.
It should include items like pads, perineal spray, numbing wipes, and comfortable underwear (preferably high-waisted).
You might also want to include a sitz bath or heating pads to help with recovery.
Preparing these items ahead of time means you won’t have to worry about it while you’re adjusting to life with a newborn.
Check out this Frida Mom Postpartum Recovery Essentials Kit
17- Stock Up on Prenatal Vitamins
Even after your baby is born, you’ll still need to take care of your health.
Prenatal vitamins support recovery and provide essential nutrients like iron and folic acid.
Keep taking them postpartum if you’re breastfeeding, as they help replenish your body’s nutrient stores. It’s a simple thing to do, but it’ll make a big difference in how you feel.
18- Get Comfy Maternity and Postpartum Clothes
You’ll need clothes that are not only comfortable but also practical.
Maternity clothes are great for the second and third trimesters, but postpartum clothes are even more important once the baby arrives.
Opt for soft, stretchy materials that are easy to move in and won’t irritate any sensitive areas.
Consider having loose, breathable pants, button-down shirts for easy breastfeeding access, and comfortable leggings or nursing tanks.
19- Get a Nursing Bra
A nursing bra is essential if you plan to breastfeed. Look for one that’s comfortable, easy to adjust, and provides good support.
Many nursing bras have easy-to-open clasps or even pull-down cups, making feeding convenient while you’re out and about or at home.
Invest in a few because you’ll be wearing them often in the early days.
20- Plan Maternity Leave
Having a maternity leave plan in place is important for both your mental and physical health.
Start by checking with your employer or your healthcare provider to see what options you have.
Decide when you want to take leave, how much time you’ll need, and how you’ll arrange for help with the baby.
Planning ahead means you can relax and enjoy your time with your baby without feeling rushed.
Prepare Home & Family
Preparing your home and family is an essential step before the baby arrives.
It’s not just about getting the nursery ready or buying baby gear; it’s about setting up a supportive environment for yourself, your partner, and any older children or pets.
21- Prepare Older Children and Pets
If you have older kids, now’s the time to start talking to them about the baby.
They might be excited, nervous, or confused about what to expect, so keep the conversation open and honest.
You can explain how things might change but also reassure them that they’ll still have lots of love and attention from you.
You can also involve them in the baby prep, like letting them help set up the nursery or pick out some baby clothes.
If you have pets, it’s important to prepare them too.
Playing baby sounds, like crying or cooing, can help your pet get used to the new noises.
And when the baby arrives, make sure to introduce them gradually to make the transition smoother for everyone.
22- Talk with Your Birth Partner
Communication with your birth partner is key! Whether it’s your spouse, a friend, or a family member, you both need to be on the same page about expectations.
Talk about how you want things to go during labor, how you’ll share responsibilities once the baby arrives, and any concerns or preferences you have.
This will not only help you feel more confident but will also help your partner understand how best to support you.
It’s a team effort, so the more you talk about it now, the easier it will be when the time comes.
23- Deep Clean the House
You don’t need to do a full-on spring cleaning, but giving your house a good scrub before the baby arrives can be a big help.
Focus on the areas that will matter most once you have a little one crawling around—like the kitchen, bathrooms, and floors.
You don’t want to feel overwhelmed by dust or clutter when you’re adjusting to life with a newborn.
Plus, having a clean space will make the environment feel fresher and more welcoming for both you and your baby.
And don’t forget to sanitize high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls.
It’ll make your home feel cozy, and you’ll feel more at ease knowing everything is nice and tidy!
24- Prepare Meals and Freeze Them
Prepping meals in advance is such a lifesaver once the baby arrives.
You won’t have to worry about cooking every day, and having a few homemade meals ready to go will allow you to focus more on bonding with your newborn.
Spend a weekend before your due date making and freezing easy-to-reheat meals like casseroles, soups, or stews.
Don’t forget snacks and breakfast options like muffins or energy bars.
When the time comes, just pop them in the oven or microwave, and you’ll have a nutritious meal in minutes—no cooking required!
25- Organize Help
It’s totally okay to ask for help!
Whether it’s family, friends, or hired help, organizing support before the baby comes will make things much easier.
Talk to people in advance and set up a schedule for help around the house, with older kids, or even just for someone to bring you a meal or run errands.
A lot of people will be happy to assist but may need a little nudge to know what would be most helpful.
Having a list or a plan can ensure that you get the support you need and take the pressure off you during those early weeks.
26- Get the Groceries
Before the baby arrives, make sure you’re stocked up on groceries.
While you’re in the nesting phase, take a moment to check your pantry and fridge and get those essentials.
You’ll want to have ingredients for your planned meals ready to go, so you’re not making multiple trips to the store.
If grocery shopping sounds like a lot to handle right now, consider online delivery or pickup services—they can save you time and energy when you need it the most!
Prepare for birth
Preparing for birth can feel like a big task, but getting organized and having a plan in place will help you feel more confident when the big day arrives.
27- Choose a pediatrician
A pediatrician will check on your baby within the first 24 hours after birth, making sure everything is going smoothly, so choosing a pediatrician should definitely be counted as part of your “preparing for birth” checklist.
It’s important to find someone who makes you feel comfortable and confident in their care.
Start early, as pediatricians often have long waiting lists or may not be accepting new patients.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a pediatrician:
- Location and Office Hours: Find someone whose office is convenient for you, especially for regular check-ups and those first few months of appointments. Consider their office hours too—do they offer evening or weekend appointments in case you need them?
- Approach to Care: Every pediatrician has their own philosophy on parenting, health, and wellness. Are they open to discussing topics that matter to you, like vaccination schedules, alternative medicine, or breastfeeding? Make sure their approach aligns with your values and beliefs.
- Emergency Care: Ask about how emergencies are handled. Is there an after-hours contact or support? Will you have direct access to the pediatrician or a nurse for urgent questions?
- Communication Style: It’s important to have a pediatrician who listens and communicates clearly. During your initial consultation, see if you feel comfortable asking questions and whether the pediatrician takes time to address your concerns.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask friends or family members for recommendations, or check online reviews to get a sense of others’ experiences with the pediatrician.
Taking the time to find the right pediatrician now will give you peace of mind, knowing your baby is in capable hands.
28- Write a birth plan
A birth plan is a simple document where you outline your preferences for labor and delivery, helping the hospital staff understand what you’d like during your birth experience.
It’s not a contract or something set in stone, but it’s a helpful way to communicate your wishes to the team.
Whether you want certain pain relief options, preferences for who’s in the room, or specific guidelines for immediate post-birth care, your birth plan helps everyone involved know what’s important to you.
The Ultimate Baby Prep Bundle includes customizable birth plan templates for both vaginal and C-section deliveries, available in pre-filled or blank formats.
This means you can choose the one that works best for you—either fill in the blanks with your specific preferences or start with a template that’s already got the basics covered.
29- Know what to expect at the hospital
A lot of people prepare for birth, but when the time comes, they’re unsure about what to do once they arrive at the hospital.
Simple things like where to park, where your support person will stay, or even where the cafeteria is can be a source of stress if you haven’t thought about them in advance.
Knowing these details ahead of time will help you feel more prepared and less anxious during labor.
The Ultimate Baby Prep Bundle includes a list of 50+ questions you can ask the hospital before your due date.
This will help you set clear expectations, from the layout of the hospital to their policies on visitors, pain relief options, and more.
Knowing what to expect will make your hospital experience smoother and help you focus on the most important thing—welcoming your little one!
30- Ask Questions from the Doctor
Asking your doctor questions about your labor and birth experience is key to feeling prepared and confident.
Every birth is different, and it’s important to discuss things that are specific to you—whether it’s about pain management, labor positions, or any medical conditions that could affect the process.
Your doctor can help guide you through what to expect and how to best prepare for your unique situation.
The Ultimate Baby Prep Bundle includes a blank planner where you can jot down any questions you have for your doctor.
It’s a great way to stay organized and make sure you don’t forget to ask anything important. Plus, you can note down the answers, so you have everything in one place when you need it!
31- Get some birth affirmation cards
Birth affirmation cards can be a powerful tool during labor.
While they won’t take away the pain, they can help you stay mentally strong and focused.
Reading empowering phrases like “My body knows what to do” or “Each contraction brings me closer to meeting my baby” can create a calming, positive atmosphere during such an intense time.
You can easily make your own affirmation cards using free tools like Canva, or save time with the Ultimate Baby Prep Bundle, which includes 20 beautifully designed, ready-to-print affirmation cards.
Plus, it comes with editable templates so you can customize them to your liking. It’s a simple yet impactful way to prepare for labor!
32- Take Prenatal Classes
Prenatal classes are a fantastic way to prepare for labor, delivery, and newborn care.
They provide you with practical tips and help reduce the anxiety of the unknown.
Whether you choose in-person or online sessions, make sure to enroll early to get the most out of them.
Plus, it’s a great bonding activity for you and your partner!
33- Finalize Insurance Details
Sorting out your insurance ahead of time can save you a lot of stress later.
Check what your policy covers, including labor, delivery, hospital stays, and newborn care.
Call your provider to confirm details and keep your insurance card and any required documents in your hospital bag for easy access.
34- Pack a Hospital Bag
Having your hospital bag ready by week 34 is a smart move.
Pack essentials like comfortable clothes, toiletries, nursing bras, baby clothes, diapers, and important documents.
Don’t forget snacks and a charger for your phone! Preparing a separate bag for your partner can also make their stay more comfortable.
The Ultimate Baby Prep Bundle includes a complete hospital bag checklist to make packing stress-free. It covers everything you, your partner, and the baby will need for your hospital stay, so you’re fully prepared when the time comes!
35- Pack an overnight hospital bag for an unexpected stay
Unexpected delays at the hospital can happen for a variety of reasons, and you might need to stay longer than planned.
To prepare for this, it’s a good idea to pack an extra bag at home that your support person can quickly bring to the hospital if needed.
This way, you’ll have everything you need without worrying about running out of essentials.
Here’s what to include in this backup bag:
- Extra comfy clothes for you (think cozy pajamas or loose tops and bottoms).
- A warm blanket or shawl for added comfort.
- Extra baby clothes and blankets.
- Additional diapers and wipes for the baby.
- A few extra pairs of socks and undergarments for yourself.
36- Prepare Emergency Labor Information Sheet
Preparing an Emergency Labor Information Sheet is a smart way to ensure you have all the crucial details on hand during labor, especially when things can get hectic.
In the midst of an emergency, it’s easy to forget important contact information or details that others might need to help you.
For example, you’ll want to write down the name and contact info of your support person, your hospital’s contact number and address, workplace details (in case you need to notify them), pet care contacts, or any special arrangements you’ve made for your pets.
You should also include any special instructions for your care or the baby’s care.
This sheet should be easy to access so that anyone nearby can quickly use it to assist you when needed.
It’s a small step, but it can make a big difference in keeping things organized and calm when the time comes!
37- Set Up a Hospital File for Baby Prep
As you prepare for your baby’s arrival, one thing you might not think about immediately is organizing your documents for the hospital.
But trust me, having everything in one place can make life a lot easier when the time comes.
Setting up a file with all the necessary documents you’ll need during labor and delivery is a smart move.
Here’s what to include:
- Your insurance details and card
- Your birth plan, whether it’s for vaginal or C-section delivery
- Medical records, including any recent test results
- Hospital registration forms (if required)
- Emergency contact information
- Any special care instructions for the baby or yourself
Preparing Emotionally for Baby’s Arrival
The transition to parenthood is beautiful, but it can also feel overwhelming. Taking time now to focus on your emotional well-being will help you step into this new chapter with confidence.
38- Practice Relaxation Techniques Early
Don’t wait until labor to learn how to calm yourself!
Deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching can help you manage stress throughout pregnancy.
Practicing now will also make it easier to relax during postpartum recovery.
39- Discuss Parenting Roles
It’s easy to assume that you and your partner (or support system) are on the same page, but having open conversations now can prevent stress later.
Who will handle nighttime feedings?
Who’s in charge of laundry or meal prep?
Discussing expectations and sharing responsibilities ahead of time will help both of you feel more prepared.
40- Make Time for Self-Care
Pregnancy and postpartum recovery are both physically and emotionally demanding.
Schedule regular self-care moments—whether it’s a relaxing bath, a slow morning with tea, or a short walk outside.
Taking care of yourself is an essential part of preparing for your baby.
41- Plan Relaxation Time for Postpartum
Life with a newborn is busy, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your own well-being.
Before the baby arrives, think about how you can create small pockets of relaxation after birth.
Maybe it’s having a cozy spot for feeding time, setting up a simple nighttime routine, or asking a loved one to step in while you take a break.
Preparing emotionally is just as important as packing a hospital bag or setting up the nursery. When you take care of yourself, you’re also preparing to be the best parent for your baby!
Plan for the Baby’s First Day
After all the excitement at the hospital, bringing your little one home can feel both magical and overwhelming. So, its best to have a plan ready!
42- Pack a Diaper Bag
The first trip home with your baby can be unpredictable, so pack a well-organized diaper bag in advance.
Include at least 10 newborn diapers, sensitive wipes, a burp cloth, a swaddle blanket, an extra set of clothes, and a plastic bag for soiled items.
If it’s cold, pack a warm hat and mittens.
If it’s hot, bring a lightweight muslin cover for shade.
43- Set Up a Diaper Caddy Cart
Diaper changes will happen more times than you expect, so setting up a well-stocked diaper caddy cart can save you time and energy.
Use a rolling cart or a portable caddy to keep essentials in one place: diapers, wipes, rash cream, a few onesies, and hand sanitizer.
Place it near your main living area for easy access, and if your home has two levels, consider setting up one on each floor to avoid rushing up and down with a newborn.
44- Pick a Going-Home Outfit
Choose a soft, breathable outfit that’s easy to put on and remove—zippers or magnetic closures work best for quick changes.
Consider the weather: a cozy onesie with footies for colder months and a lightweight cotton romper for warmer days.
Since newborns can be sensitive to temperature changes, bring a blanket or car seat cover for extra warmth if needed.
Also, keep in mind that bulky clothes or thick jackets should not be worn in the car seat for safety reasons.
45- Decide on the Baby Welcome Celebration
Whether it’s a quiet, cozy day at home or a small family gathering, think about how you want to celebrate your baby’s arrival.
If loved ones are visiting, set clear boundaries to ensure rest and recovery for both you and your little one.
The Ultimate Baby Prep Bundle Includes a planner page to plan the baby’s first day at home.
Learn
From understanding basic baby care to knowing how to handle emergencies, the more you learn now, the more confident you’ll feel when the baby arrives.
46- Learn Infant CPR
Knowing infant CPR can be lifesaving in an emergency.
Many hospitals and community centers offer short classes where you can practice hands-on techniques.
If an in-person class isn’t an option, online courses from trusted sources like the American Red Cross or the AHA are great alternatives.
Even if you never need to use it, having the knowledge can give you peace of mind.
47- Read Parenting Books
No one is born knowing how to be a parent, and every baby is different.
Reading books on newborn care, sleep routines, and feeding can help you feel more prepared.
Instead of overwhelming yourself with too much information, pick one or two books with practical advice.
If you don’t have time to read, try audiobooks or quick online guides for easy learning on the go.
Moms on Call | Basic Baby Care 0-6 Months by Laura and Jennifer is an absolute must have to learn about caring for new babies.
48- Learn New Baby Hacks
Small tricks can make a big difference in handling newborn life more smoothly.
For example, layering crib sheets (waterproof liner, sheet, liner, sheet) makes middle-of-the-night accidents easier to clean.
Keeping a portable changing station in the car saves you from messy situations on the go.
49- Learn About Postpartum Depression and Its Management
Postpartum depression (PPD) is more common than people think, and it’s really important to educate yourself about it before giving birth.
Understanding the symptoms—like extreme fatigue, irritability, sadness, and feeling overwhelmed—can help you recognize if you’re experiencing PPD and reach out for help.
Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor if you feel like you might need support.
There’s no shame in getting help, and there are many ways to manage PPD, from therapy and counseling to support groups or medication.
The key is knowing that you’re not alone.
Other
50- Setup Baby’s Insurance
Setting up your baby’s insurance early ensures they have medical coverage from day one. Check with your provider about adding your baby to your plan and any deadlines you need to meet.
51- Understand Parental Leave
Understanding parental leave is just as important, not just for the mother but also for the other parent or caretaker.
Review the workplace policies, and check if the other parent or caretaker can apply for parental leave too.
This will ensure that both of you have time to bond with the baby without worrying about finances.
So, here was my ultimate baby prep checklist! I’m pretty sure that if you follow all these steps, you’ll feel so much more prepared when your little one arrives. It may seem like a lot, but trust me, getting organized now will make those first few weeks so much smoother. You’ve got this!
You can get your free Printable Baby Prep Checklist Below:
Overwhelmed with baby prep?
Here’s a FREE checklist of 45 important things to do to Prepare For a Baby
