Bringing a new baby into your home is an exciting time, but it also requires a lot of preparation. Between buying all the necessary items and making sure your home is safe and ready for a newborn, it can be overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve put together a checklist of everything you need to do before your baby arrives.

Preparing the Nursery

The first step in getting ready for your baby’s arrival is preparing their nursery. Here’s what you need to do:.

1. Choose a Room

Choose a room in your home that will be dedicated to your baby’s nursery. Make sure it has enough space for a crib, changing table, dresser, and any other furniture you plan on using.

2. Paint the Walls

If you plan on painting the nursery, make sure to do so well in advance of your due date so that the fumes have time to dissipate. Choose a low- or no-VOC paint to avoid exposing your baby to harmful chemicals.

3. Buy Furniture

Buy all the necessary furniture for your baby’s nursery, including a crib, changing table, and dresser. Make sure everything meets current safety standards.

4. Decorate

Add any decorative touches to the nursery, such as curtains, wall art, and a rug. Make sure everything is safe and meets current safety standards.

5. Stock Up on Supplies

Stock up on all the essential supplies you’ll need for your baby’s nursery, including diapers, wipes, diaper cream, and baby lotion. You’ll also need a baby monitor and a few extra crib sheets.

Preparing Your Home

Getting your home ready for a new baby involves a lot of preparation. Here’s what you need to do:.

1. Baby-Proof Your Home

Before your baby arrives, you’ll need to baby-proof your home. This includes installing outlet covers, securing furniture to the wall, and putting up safety gates.

2. Prepare the Kitchen

Prepare your kitchen for a new baby by stocking up on bottles, formula (if you plan on bottle-feeding), and a bottle brush. You’ll also need a high chair or booster seat.

3. Get Your Laundry Room Ready

You’ll need to do a lot of laundry once your baby arrives, so make sure your laundry room is fully-stocked with detergent, fabric softener, and stain remover.

4. Stock Up on Essentials

Stock up on all the essentials you’ll need for your baby, including burp cloths, bibs, swaddling blankets, and pacifiers. You’ll also need a few changes of clothes in different sizes.

5. Install a Car Seat

You’ll need a car seat to bring your baby home from the hospital, so make sure to install it well in advance of your due date. Choose a car seat that meets current safety standards.

Preparing Yourself

Preparing yourself for a new baby means taking care of yourself both physically and emotionally. Here’s how:.

1. Attend Prenatal Classes

Attend prenatal classes to prepare for childbirth and learn about caring for a newborn. These classes will also give you the opportunity to ask questions and connect with other new parents.

2. Take Care of Yourself

Take care of yourself physically by eating a healthy diet, getting enough rest, and staying active. Take care of yourself emotionally by practicing self-care, connecting with loved ones, and seeking support when needed.

3. Make Arrangements for Childcare

If you plan on returning to work after your baby is born, make arrangements for childcare well in advance. This could involve researching daycare centers or finding a nanny.

4. Pack a Hospital Bag

Pack a hospital bag containing all the essentials you’ll need for your hospital stay, including comfortable clothes, toiletries, and any necessary paperwork.

5. Set Up a Support Network

Set up a support network of family and friends who can help you during the first few weeks and months after your baby’s arrival. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.