9 things to do before your baby’s arrival
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1 Get your notes ready
Make sure you baby folder/notes are all up to date and with you on the big day. You should include information on the type of birth you would like, what pain relief you would prefer and if you would like skin to skin and cord cutting immediately.
2 Get your help all lined up
Talk to your partner before the birth and try to articulate the different ways they can help make the birth easier for you. It is also important to agree various roles and responsibilities, household chores etc. Having a baby is hard work. There are all those nappies and late-night feeds to consider, and partners need to help.
3 Arrange for extra help.
The first few weeks with a baby can be overwhelming. If you are lucky enough to have friends or relatives who are willing to help out, it is worth having a chat about specifics before the birth. For example, will you need them more in the first few weeks, or after your partner's paternity leave finished? If you are considering using paid help, such as a cleaner, or a babysitter/nanny you should organise this in advance.
4 Pet proof the house
Make sure that you do not let the cat sleep in the same room as your baby. Buy a cat net and use it. If you have a dog invest in a stair gate now to keep them where they need to be. You will need one of these anyway when you child gets older, so you might as well sort it out now. Your house will need to be toddler-proofed at a later date and you will need to carry out duties such as:
Securing heavy furniture to the walls (toddles often try and climb up furniture and it can fall and squash them)
Putting child locks on cupboards
Investing in fire guards
Putting protective covers on sharp edges such as glass tables
5 Wash your baby's clothes and bedding
Your new baby's skin will be very delicate. It is a good idea to wash their clothes and bedding in advance. This will help to remove any substances or dust that may irritate your baby's delicate skin. Although there is not much evidence that biological detergents can irritate your baby’s skin, you may want to play it safe and use non-biological detergent.
6 Shop for household essentials and freeze food
Stock up on household must-haves before the birth to avoid trips to the shop afterwards. Pantry staples, frozen food, toiletries, medicine, toilet paper, shampoo – even extra pairs of underwear – often come in very handy when you arrive home. You could also consider stocking up on frozen food and remember to label it.
7 Clean the house
You will not have much time to do housework when your baby arrives. If you are lucky, your nesting instinct may have kicked in now. Take advantage of it! Get the house cleaned, dusted, and vacuumed. If you are too tired, try to just do the basics, such as organising your baby supplies. Every little helps to make life with your newborn a bit easier.
8 Stock up on nappies
You may be surprised by how many nappies your little one will get through, so stocking up now is essential! If you are planning to use disposable, you will need about 10 to 12 a day. If you are opting for reusable, the number you need will depend on the type of nappy you choose. Some retailers offer trial packs, so you can see what works best for your baby.
9 Make sure you have your bag ready
Have your hospital bag ready to go and leave it somewhere obvious. Make sure that you have someone ready to take you to the hospital and that the route is clear.