In this article, I’ll explain how to best organize your home before your baby arrives. Having welcomed our son 16 months ago, I remember how crucial it was to not only build our nest but to organize it. I wanted everything tidy, ready for our son, and functional for us so we could focus entirely on him once he arrived, without wasting precious time cleaning, searching, or running errands. Here, I’ll share my top tips.
Congratulations on expecting a child! A miraculous new addition is coming into your life and will change everything—in the most beautiful way. But this also means changes at home as you prepare for this new person. So, here’s my first tip:
1. No Need to Move for a Baby
Many people think,
“Oh no, a new person! We need more space.”
But as long as your child is still a baby, you don’t need it. Initially, your baby only needs you. They’ll spend most of their first months with you, and you won’t want to be far from them either. No need to add a new room. If you want more space, go ahead, but what you need for your baby can fit into your current living space.
2. What Do I Need for My Baby?
There are millions of blog articles about what you need for a baby—don’t read them all. Find a trusted source; for us, it was our midwife. She gave us a list, we got those items, and that was it. And get a diaper pail—everyone said we didn’t need one, but we found it indispensable!
3. Where Does It All Fit?
We only had two purchases that took up space: the baby bed and the changing table. We chose a baby bay that attached to my side of the bed, fitting easily in any bedroom. The changing table was also crucial for storage, holding baby clothes, spit-up cloths, etc. We made room for it by removing a less-needed piece of furniture, prioritizing our new life with the baby.
4. Declutter Before the Baby Arrives
If you've never decluttered before, the months leading up to your due date are the perfect time. Create a home that reflects you. Not only will it make you feel better, but it will also free up space. Finish any pending projects a few weeks before your due date. I told my husband to repot the plants, he said he’d do it tomorrow, and our son was born that night. Guess who repotted the plants in the first week?
5. Test for Functionality
Whether you’ve just finished a major decluttering or always keep things tidy, check every corner for problem areas. If there’s a drawer or shelf that’s always messy, it’s a sign the system isn’t working well there. These weak points can quickly become chaos magnets once your baby arrives. Make sure everything is sorted, functional, and accessible.
6. Designate Spots for Baby’s Stuff
Just as everything in your home has a designated place, do the same for all your baby’s things. Sort baby clothes into the changing table by category for easy access. Have a specific spot for bottles, pacifiers, bath towels, and washcloths. Keeping the changing table organized will make every task easier, allowing you to focus on the baby, not searching for items.
7. Paperwork Ready?
A tedious but necessary task: have your paperwork ready before the baby arrives. To save time and stress after birth, complete as much as possible in advance. In Germany, for example, parental leave must be applied for in the first week after birth—something you'll want to avoid amidst newborn chaos. Prepare all necessary documents and applications in advance.
8. Packed Hospital Bag
You’ve probably read or will read about packing your hospital bag. Do it well in advance. Your midwife or another trusted person can guide you on what to pack.
And then you’re ready. Relax and enjoy some TV. Seriously, savor your TV time—it’s what we miss the most!
By following these tips, you’ll create a more organized, functional, and peaceful environment, allowing you to focus on the joy of your new arrival.
Laura
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