7 Tasks You Must Accomplish Before Bringing Baby Home

The arrival of a new baby is such a thrilling and precious time!  You want to be as prepared as possible in your new parenting journey. Whether this is your first child, or you are welcoming a little brother or sister there are some things you will want to have done before bringing baby home!

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Below are some essential things to do before bringing baby home.

7 Tasks Before Bringing Baby Home

Install Car Seat

You will absolutely need a car seat installed before you are able to leave the hospital. Make sure you have an infant car seat and that you follow proper installation guidelines for safety. Some individuals may have purchased a travel system which has the stroller as well. Having these items in the car ahead of time ensures that you are well prepared for your baby’s arrival.

Assemble Diaper Bag

Have the diaper bag assembled and stocked. Go ahead and put the essential items such as: diapers, wipes, diaper cream, burp cloths, a baby blanket and things of that nature in your bag. Leaving the hospital you will want to have the diaper bag with you, and it will also be great to have ready for when you take your newborn to their first doctors’ appointment soon after birth.

Wash, Wash, Wash

Wash all baby items that you intend to use. Have all of the items cleaned and ready to go! Things such as the baby towels/washcloths, blankets, outfits, burp cloths, and bedding should be fresh and ready for your newborn to use.

Assemble Crib

Have the bassinet or crib assembled.  Some choose to have the baby in a closer setting like a bassinet or a co-sleeper that attaches near the bed. Other parents choose to use a crib, whichever your preference have it prepared for your new little love to sleep safety in.

Breast Pump

Have breast pump and breastfeeding supplies ready to go. This includes whichever pump you have purchased, rented, or may have received from your insurance. You also want to have plenty or nursing pads, nursing tanks/bras, and a nursing pillow. In addition, having bottles cleaned will also be helpful as well as they can be used for pumped milk, or if you decide to use formula.

Prepare Essentials

Have plenty of the “staple newborn items” such as diapers, wipes, and diaper cream stocked! These are things that you will breeze through rather quickly and the last thing you want to do is run to the store for one of these items! Another essential for safety is to have a rectal thermometer ready so that a possible fever can be detected quickly.

Stock Your Kitchen

Stock your kitchen! If you have the time to get in a grocery trip before the baby arrives to get all essentials and stock up on items you will use regularly.  Some families decide to meal prep and put some meals in the freezer-this is very helpful and quick so that you don’t have to worry about what you will eat.

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Having your home prepared for your newborn is both exciting and even nerve racking! Go ahead and cut down on the stress by checking off your “to-do” list sooner rather than later as you await your sweet new baby!