As the due date approaches, many parents-to-be experience a sudden burst of energy and an overwhelming urge to clean, organize, and prepare their home for their baby’s arrival. This instinct, known as nesting, is completely normal—and even beneficial. Nesting can help ease anxieties, create a sense of control, and ensure everything is in place before your little one arrives. Here’s how to make the most of your nesting phase without overdoing it.
Prioritize the Essentials
With so much to do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Start with the tasks that will make the biggest difference in your daily life once the baby arrives.
- Set Up the Nursery – Assemble furniture, wash baby clothes, and organize essentials like diapers, wipes, and burp cloths. Make sure the crib or bassinet is safely set up following current safety guidelines.
- Stock Up on Baby Supplies – Have plenty of diapers, formula (if you plan to use it), baby wipes, and other must-haves so you’re not running to the store in the first few days postpartum.
- Prepare a Sleep-Friendly Space – Whether your baby will sleep in your room or the nursery, ensure it’s a quiet, comfortable space with soft lighting and a safe sleep environment.
Deep Cleaning: What Matters Most
You don’t need to scrub every corner of your home, but certain areas deserve special attention:
- Sanitize High-Touch Areas – Wipe down frequently used surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
- Wash Baby Clothes & Linens – Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent to wash baby clothes, blankets, and bedding to avoid skin irritation.
- Declutter Common Spaces – Make room for baby gear by clearing out unnecessary items from your living areas and kitchen.
Meal Prep for the Fourth Trimester
Cooking may be the last thing on your mind after bringing your baby home. Prepare in advance by stocking your freezer with easy-to-heat meals. Consider making soups, casseroles, or slow-cooker meals that require minimal effort. Keeping healthy snacks on hand—like granola bars, nuts, and cut-up fruit—can also be a lifesaver for quick energy boosts.
Organizing for Convenience
- Create a Diaper Changing Station – Have a designated spot stocked with diapers, wipes, creams, and a changing pad for easy access.
- Set Up Nursing or Feeding Stations – If you’re breastfeeding, create a comfortable space with a chair, nursing pillow, burp cloths, and water nearby. For bottle-feeding, organize formula, bottles, and sterilizing supplies in one convenient spot.
- Make Essentials Easy to Reach – Arrange baby clothes, blankets, and burp cloths in a way that makes them easy to grab in a hurry.
Pack Your Hospital Bag
While nesting often focuses on the home, don’t forget to prepare for your hospital stay. Pack a bag with essentials for you, your partner, and the baby, including comfortable clothes, snacks, toiletries, and any birth plan documents.
Know When to Rest
It’s easy to get carried away with nesting, but don’t forget to take breaks. Pregnancy is exhausting, and overexertion can leave you feeling drained. Listen to your body, ask for help when needed, and tackle tasks at a comfortable pace.
The Takeaway
Nesting is a natural and exciting part of preparing for your baby’s arrival. By focusing on the essentials, staying organized, and taking care of yourself, you can create a welcoming, stress-free environment for your little one’s first days at home. Enjoy the process—before long, your baby will be here, and your home will be filled with love, laughter, and a little bit of chaos!
