*This is a collaborative post

Welcoming a baby is one of life’s biggest joys, but it also comes with a long list of things to prepare. Whether this is your first child or you’re adding another little one to the family, it’s normal to feel both excited and overwhelmed. 

Between setting up the nursery, buying baby essentials, and planning for sleepless nights, it can feel like there’s so much to do. But don’t worry! With the right checklist, you can break everything down into simple steps and get ready with confidence. This article covers everything you need to prepare before your baby arrives, so let’s dive in!

Get the Nursery Ready

Your baby’s nursery doesn’t need to be fancy, but it should be safe, cozy, and well-organized. Start with the most important piece—the crib. Make sure it meets modern safety standards and has a firm mattress with a fitted sheet. 

Avoid loose blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals, as these can be uncomfortable for newborns. You’ll also want a comfortable chair for feeding and rocking your baby, as well as a designated diaper-changing area stocked with diapers, wipes, and creams. 

Storage is another key factor—bins, baskets, and shelves will help keep baby clothes, blankets, and toys organized. Setting up a simple and functional nursery ahead of time will make those early newborn days much smoother.

Stock Up on Baby Essentials

Newborns may be small, but they require a surprising number of essentials. Start with clothing—choose gender neutral baby clothes that are soft, versatile, and designed for everyday wear. Simple yet cozy pieces like onesies, bodysuits, and rompers are easy to put on and perfect for an active baby’s daily needs. The best part? In this digital age, you can conveniently shop for them online at your own pace!

For feeding, stock up on bottles, burp cloths, and a nursing pillow if you plan to breastfeed. Diapers and wipes are must-haves, and since newborns go through 8-12 diapers a day, it’s wise to buy them in bulk. 

Bathtime essentials, such as a baby tub, gentle baby soap, and soft towels, are also important. Having all these items ready before your baby arrives will make life much easier once you’re home from the hospital.

Install the Car Seat Early

One of the most important tasks before bringing your baby home is installing a car seat. Hospitals won’t let you leave without a properly installed rear-facing infant car seat, so don’t wait until the last minute. 

It’s best to install it at least a month before your due date. If you’re unsure about proper installation, many fire stations and police departments offer free car seat safety checks. 

Practicing how to buckle and unbuckle the seat will also help you feel more confident when the big day arrives. 

Prepare for Sleepless Nights

Newborns sleep a lot, but they wake up every 2-3 hours for feedings, which means parents don’t get much rest. Setting up a plan in advance can help. 

A bedside bassinet makes nighttime feedings easier since you won’t have to walk across the room every time the baby wakes up. If you have a partner, taking shifts can help both of you get some rest. Creating a simple bedtime routine, such as a warm bath and soft music, can also help your baby settle at night. 

Keep a basket of essentials—diapers, wipes, and an extra onesie—near your bed for quick middle-of-the-night changes. While sleepless nights can be tough, knowing that they are temporary can make them easier to handle.

Pack Your Hospital Bag

Labor can happen anytime, so having your hospital bag ready by week 36 is a smart idea. For mom, pack comfortable clothing, such as a loose-fitting nightgown, cozy socks, and slippers. Bring important documents like your insurance card, ID, and birth plan if you have one. 

For the baby, pack a few newborn-sized outfits, a soft hat, and a blanket. Don’t forget basic toiletries, a phone charger, and snacks—you’ll be glad to have them during and after labor. 

If you have a partner or support person coming with you, they should also pack a small bag with essentials. Having everything ready in advance will help you feel more prepared and reduce stress when it’s time to head to the hospital.

Take Care of Yourself

Parenthood starts before the baby arrives. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself too!

• Rest when you can – Even short naps help.

• Eat well – A healthy diet gives you energy for the big day.

• Lean on your support system – Friends and family are there to help. Let them!

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling anxious, talk to your doctor. Prenatal anxiety is common and completely normal.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a baby can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Take it step by step, and trust yourself—you’re going to be a great parent! With this checklist, you’ll be ready to welcome your little one with confidence, love, and lots of cuddles.