Get Organized For a New Baby
Bringing a baby home is a magical time. Time feels like it moves faster than ever. Here is a list of what I've found helpful as an organizer to prepare for your precious one to come home.
Gear & Safety
-Car seat: Install early! A reminder that you need to have it installed in your car to bring your little one home from the hospital.
-Hospital bag: Make sure to have it ready to go with your essentials and insurance documents at least two weeks ahead of your due date.
-Crib: There are so many different ones on the market. Before you order, check the delivery lead times so you don’t have to wait too long for it to arrive.
Changing Station – If you're living in a home with multiple floors or a large footprint, it's a good idea to have a changing station on every floor to make your life a little easier. Keep these essentials on hand:
-Changing pad: I love the Keekaroo because it doesn’t need a cover (less laundry to do!). Just wipe the surface clean.
-Diapers
-Wipes
-Petroleum jelly
-Diaper cream
-Nail cutter and filer
-A basket or designated drawer to hold all the small items. Check out our cotton diaper caddy here!
-Baby monitor
-Night light & sound machine: An all-in-one device like the Hatch is a great option. It has a companion app that lets you control and program it right on your iOS or Android. Another option is using Amazon Alexa or downloading an app on your phone.
-Childproofing: Looking for someone to set up all of your child proofing systems? There’s a local New England company that does just that!
-Tub: I like this tub because it can be used for multiple baby stages (newborn to up to 25 lbs)
Nursing gear – Everyone is different, but having these on hand is helpful if you're planning to go this route:
-Breast pumps: Most standard models are covered by insurance. Do some research to see if you prefer electric or manual options. Wearable ones like the Elvie are not covered by insurance, but can be a convenient option. It may take a few weeks to ship, so plan early!
-Large water bottle & snacks
-Storage – Contain your pump and pump parts with one of our cute bins. Check out our cotton rope baskets.
Feeding - Plan for a bit of real estate in the kitchen for these items:
-Bottles, utensils, plates, and bibs
-Sterilizer & drying rack: Whether you go the old fashion route of boiling your bottles or getting a sterilizer, you’ll need space for a combination of these things. I love this cute drying rack. There are accessories you can add to maximize the space vertically. I also love this sterilizer and dryer combo, which makes the sterilizer process easy.
-Formula- It’s a good idea to keep a little bit on hand even when nursing.
Play & Fun
-Play mat: Have a dedicated open area with a play mat or blanket for tummy time. Client’s love these that aren’t an eyesore and are non-toxic.
-Toy bin: Fill up with a few fun items, such as sensory toys and high-contrast flashcards. These bins corral a lot of toys in one designated area.
-Books: Get a variety of books for story time. I like board books because they are more durable.
-Memorabilia box: A small container to capture those great memories as you go.
Clothing, Accessories & Closet - wondering what you should be prepared to store? Here are the basics:
-Clothing
-Accessories
-Swaddles and burp cloths
-Hats, mittens & sun wear
-Storage boxes: For the next size/too small clothing box, so you have a spot for those hand-me-downs that you get or clothing you want to give to others.
-Toiletries & first aid
-Closet: If space and budget allows, consider investing in an Elfa system. I love that this system can be reconfigured to be flexible as a baby’s wardrobe changes.
In the end, keep it simple; less is always more. Prepare for the unexpected, and don’t stress out. Everything will come together.