Preparing for Your Baby: What will your baby actually need? ♥️ From Your Homesteading Doula 🌻🌼

As you approach the beautiful journey of bringing your baby home, the excitement is often accompanied by a whirlwind of questions. What do you really need? How can you ensure that your home is ready for your new addition? Let’s dive into some essentials to help you feel organized, supported, and filled with love as you prepare for this incredible chapter in your life.

 The Importance of Preparation

By week 36 of my pregnancy, I was determined to be ready for our baby. I wanted to focus on keeping the house clean and resting, avoiding that last-minute scramble that can leave you feeling overwhelmed. With each child, I realized how crucial it was to be organized. Coming home from the hospital can be a stressful time—you're healing, adjusting, and suddenly caring for a tiny human who demands your full attention. Getting everything in order beforehand lifted a weight off my shoulders.

 Essentials for Your Baby’s Arrival

Here’s a list of essential items to help you get organized before your little one arrives:

Car Seat. An infant one that you can take in the house and carry in store is handy but not essential. A convertable car seat the works for many different stages works well too. Plus ensures baby gets carried more and has less tile in the car seat. IF buying a used car seat, remember to check the expiration dates and make sure it hasn’t been in a previous accident.

Diapers and Wipes: Set up diaper stations in a few different locations around your home. You’ll appreciate the convenience during those busy newborn days. Another huge question is whether to use cloth, disposable, or a combination. Elimination communication is an option as well. I suggest having some backup diapers on hand for going out, even if they are cloth. I hope to give you more information on diapering options shortly. If want it before I get it out, please message me.

Safe Sleep Space: Whether it’s a cradle, bassinet, or playpen, make sure you have a safe place for your baby to sleep. If you’re considering co-sleeping, do your research and ensure you’ve set it up safely.

Clothing: Start with some gender-neutral sleepers and undershirts. These basics will keep your baby cozy and comfortable. Used is 100%. Babys do not wear out their clothes before they out grow them. Hand me downs and second hand clothes are a great option.

Receiving and Swaddle Blankets: Receiving blankets are perfect for managing spit-up and drool, while swaddle blankets can help your baby feel secure, mimicking the womb experience. Often can find on facebook groups.

Baby Wraps: One of my most used essentials, baby wraps keep your little one close and content while allowing you to move around and get things done. Check used. Most wraps and baby carriers are easy to wash.

Nursing Supplies: If you plan to breastfeed, stock up on nursing bras, nipple cream, and nursing pads to make the experience more comfortable.

Bottles and Formula: If you choose to formula feed, having bottles and formula ready will ensure you’re prepared for feeding time. If plan on formula feed, do ur research on the formulas and make sure you feel comfortable with the ingredient list.

I hope this guide helps you feel more organized and ready for your new bundle of joy. By setting everything up beforehand, you can focus on what truly matters—bonding with your baby and soaking in those precious moments.

Have Fun Getting Organized! Your do not need to overcomplicate it. Being fed, and clean and having mom or dad struggle will be your baby’s main concerns.

Embrace this exciting time in your life, and enjoy preparing your home for your little one. You’ve got this!