By Emma 
As you get ready for a new baby, there are several adjustments you’ll have to make to your home, family, and life.
While this can be an exciting time in your life, it’s also important to be as organized as possible to reduce the stress of adding a new member to your family.
Here are some essential things to prep for before you bring your bundle of joy home.
Table of Contents
Breastfeeding
If you plan to breastfeed your baby, you may need to purchase pumping equipment. A breast pump and storage bottles are necessary if you have to pump milk to make sure your baby eats while you’re at work or away from home.
If you’re working from home and want to feed your baby on demand, you may not need this equipment; however, you’ll need several bibs and burp cloths.
Be sure you have a nursing bra to make breastfeeding quicker and easier. You should also purchase disposable or washable nipple pads to keep your breastmilk from leaking onto your clothing when you’re not nursing.
It’s also a good idea to have some nipple cream on hand to keep your nipples from becoming cracked or sore.
Diapering
Changing diapers is a huge part of having a baby. You should have a few packs of disposable or cloth diapers on hand, along with waterproof covers and portable changing pads so you can change your baby in various parts of the house or when you’re on the go.
A changing table in your baby’s room is also essential, especially if the table has shelves for you to store diapers, wipes, washcloths, powder, and lotion.
Before your baby arrives, you may want to pack a diaper bag for your home and one for the car so you’ll always have the supplies you need to change your newborn no matter where you are.
Clothing
When you bring a new baby home, chances are you’ll be too exhausted on most days to organize your clothing and your baby’s wardrobe.
Before the big day, purchase some nightgowns for your little one. These will likely be more comfortable for your baby until the remaining section of the umbilical cord falls off.
Have a few long-sleeve and short-sleeve onesies on hand as well so you can dress your baby based on his/her comfort level and the temperature of your house.
It’s also a good idea to buy a few hats for the baby and some mittens to keep your newborn from scratching his/her face.
You should purchase a few necessary clothing items for yourself as well. Buy pajamas, tank tops, and shirts that are comfortable and easy to adjust when you’re nursing.
If you’ve just given birth, comfortable undergarments and supportive shapewear that can help with conditions like incontinence, abdominal pain, and diastasis recti may be necessary to help you heal after childbirth.
Bathtime
Giving your baby a bath at home for the first time can be a heartwarming milestone for you and your little one.
To make sure you’re prepared for your baby’s bathtime, you can purchase a plastic infant tub or arrange for the baby to bathe with you.
If you’re taking your little one in the tub with you, you may want to take a lifesaver or inflatable pillow in the water with you so you can support yourself while holding and bathing your baby.
Purchase some baby washcloths and a gentle cleanser to prevent skin irritation. Don’t forget to buy a few baby towels and some plush towels for yourself to make bathtime a relaxing experience for you and your little one.
A brush with soft bristles is best for newborn hair and allows you to gently groom your little one’s tresses after you wash his/her hair.
Sleeping
It’s crucial that your baby has a safe and comfortable place to sleep. You’ll also need supplies to help you get a good night’s sleep.
If your newborn is sleeping in a crib, purchase an approved crib and crib mattress, along with some waterproof mattress pads.
Make sure you have some light blankets for the crib and a sleep sack so your baby feels swaddled at night.
If you’re co-sleeping, make sure you have a firm mattress and aren’t sleeping on a waterbed.
Place a waterproof pad in your bed as well and choose a lightweight comforter. Be sure to keep the comforter away from the baby’s head.
These things can make welcoming a new baby an even more thrilling experience for you and your family.
As you get closer to your due date, create a checklist for yourself to make sure everything is in place for your newborn’s debut.
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