Two Weeks to Go: A Quick Guide to Prepping Your Home for Your Newborn | Edmonton Newborn Photography by Kelsie

Are you expecting a new baby in the next few weeks? I totally get it, the anticipation can be exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back! As an Edmonton newborn photographer and mom of three, I’ve rounded up my top 5 tips for getting your home ready for your new arrival in just two weeks.

As a mom who has been through the newborn phase three times, I’ve gathered some unique tips and ideas that you might not have thought of before! The first few months at home with your baby are incredibly fleeting, and my goal is to help make that time as smooth as possible. At the end of this post, you’ll find a handy downloadable checklist to keep you on track. I hope these tips allow you to focus on what truly matters—soaking in all those sweet newborn snuggles

1. Declutter your home | Edmonton Baby Photographer

Decluttering your home can sound like a daunting task, especially when you’re expecting a newborn! But it’s easier than you think to get your home ready for your newest addition. (Optional: Honestly decluttering has always been overwhelming for me, but I feel SO much better when I declutter my space. It is always worth the effort for me!)

Here are some steps to follow to declutter before baby arrives:

Step 1: Choose two or three rooms that you frequent most often (most likely this will be your living room, kitchen and bedroom).

Step 2: Start by noticing where things tend to pile up. For me, that’s always been _______.  Find a new place for these items to go so they stop piling up!

Step 3: Let’s “Marie Kondo” your stuff! (Optional: Let’s clear out what you don’t need or want anymore). Go through each drawer, cabinet and shelf and ask yourself, “Do I still need/want this item?”

Step 4: Make 3 piles, “Keep, Donate, Toss” and put everything into 1 of those piles.

Step 5: Organize the “keep” items, throw away the “toss” items (or recycle if possible) and give away the “donate.”

Turn on some music and make it fun! Ask a friend to come over and help. What are some ways you get motivated to declutter? Add your own personal experiences and advice here!

By following these simple steps over the course of just a few days or a weekend, you can quickly create a stress-free and comfortable newborn-ready environment in your own home.

2. Batch cook | Edmonton Newborn Photographer

The thought of cooking a ton of food in one go can be intimidating, but batch cooking is a lifesaver, especially when you’re getting ready to welcome your newborn into the world. You’ll thank yourself later!

Here are a few simple steps to follow to get started:

Step 1: Plan out your meals. Choose recipes that are easy to make in large quantities, and make a list of all the ingredients you will need.

Some of my busy family of five’s favorites – Lasagna, Burrito Bowls, any type of muffins and just some pre-cooked chicken breasts that can easily added to salads or sandwiches.

Step 2: Go grocery shopping. Try to do this a few days before you plan to start cooking, so you have everything you need on hand.

Step 3: Set aside a block of time to cook. Depending on how much you want to make, you may need several hours or even a full day to get everything done. Consider getting the help of a friend or family member to make it more fun!

Step 4: Cook in batches. Prepare one recipe at a time, and portion it out into individual servings. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and be sure to label everything with the name of the dish and the date it was made.

Step 5: Freeze your meals. Once everything is cooked and portioned out, place the containers in the freezer. They will keep for several months, so you can have a variety of meals ready to go whenever you need them. By following these steps, you can create a stockpile of nutritious, homemade meals that will make the first few weeks with your newborn a little bit easier!

Want to treat yourself and have meals prepared and delivered just in time for your baby’s arrival? When my family gets too busy to cook a healthy meal, one of our go-to options is Chef’s Plate—a meal kit service that lets you schedule a box of ready-to-prepare dinners.

Looking for something even healthier and more convenient? Inspired Go offers delicious, ready-made salads that require no prep at all! My personal favorite is the Fraîche Noodle Salad, and the best part? You can schedule your delivery to arrive right around when you get home with your baby.

3. Stock up on essentials (& not just baby essentials) | Edmonton Studio Newborn Photographer

You’re likely already thinking about things like diapers, wipes, bottles, etc.

But have you considered stocking up on regular household items like paper towels, toilet paper, dishwasher soap…?

My best tip would be to set these items up on Amazon Subscribe and Save so they’ll show up on your doorstep and you never have to worry about running out those first few months with your newborn!

If I could go back and have anything auto shipped? It would be extra pacifiers. It was shocking how easily they would disappear!

4. Put together a Diaper Caddy | Edmonton Newborn Photographer

A diaper caddy, or sometimes called a baby care basket is a lifesaver those first few weeks home with a new baby.

Oftentimes, you’re in one space with the baby for most of the day and find yourself “trapped” under a sleeping baby without the supplies you need!

A baby care basket can solve that for you. Basically, it’s a container you can keep in each room of the house that has all the essentials for baby so you’re not running around from room to room getting the things you need.

Usually, the baby care basket includes diapers, wipes, burp cloths, extra clothes, pacifiers, and anything else you might need for the baby frequently.

I also like to think about including things for mom like nipple cream, bottle of water, breast pads, chapstick, etc.

In addition to keeping you from running from room to room, a baby care basket will help you stay organized and keep your home clutter free.

As an Edmonton Newborn photographer I keep a fully stocked diaper caddy with all the essentials—plus a few extras that tired parents sometimes forget, like ready-made formula and a baby brush. That way, baby’s tummy is full, their hair is picture-perfect, and you can enjoy a truly stress-free, luxury experience with everything you might need.

5. Light your home the right way | Edmonton Lifestyle Newborn Photographer

Maybe this is important to me because I’m a photographer, I don’t know but lighting is one I don’t see talked about too often!!

Proper lighting can help create a calm and comfortable atmosphere for both you and your baby.

First, look at the rooms you’ll spend the most time in (typically kitchen, living room, bedrooms). You’ll want to consider the type of lighting you have in each room.

• Do you want to add a lamp option (yes, even in the kitchen)?
• Under cabinet lights?
• How about a dimmer switch for the overhead lights?
• What about small wall plug in lights to help light the way in the halls for the middle of the night?

The right lighting can help frustrating or overly stimulating situations feel much more calm and peaceful.

6. Prepare YOUR wardrobe | Edmonton Newborn Photographer

Of course we’re thinking a lot about how to prepare for the baby, but don’t forget about yourself!

Preparing your wardrobe for the first 2-3 weeks postpartum is an important step in getting ready for the arrival of your new baby. As a mom who planned to exclusively breastfeed the first year, I wish I had purchased more comfortable nursing friendly tops.

Comfort and functionality are key during this time! You’ll want to focus on loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that can accommodate changes in your body shape and allow for easy breastfeeding access if you plan to breastfeed.

Yo Mama Maternity in West Edmonton has an excellent selection of nursing bras, clothing and accessories.

Consider investing in a few nursing bras, loose-fitting pants or leggings, and comfortable tops that are easy to pull up or down. Some women also find it helpful to have a couple of nursing-friendly dresses on hand for a dressier option. I also loved having my maternity jeans – I kept those on for a few months post partum.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you will likely still be bleeding for a few weeks, so having a few pairs of comfortable and absorbent underwear or postpartum pads on hand is a good idea.

Remember, the key to preparing your wardrobe for the first few weeks postpartum is to prioritize comfort and practicality. By doing so, you can focus on bonding with your new baby without worrying about your clothing or physical discomfort!

Which of these tips are you going to do first? Did you learn something new today? Let me know in the comments!

Don’t forget to download my free checklist, TWO WEEKS TO PREP FOR BABY—a handy checklist to help you get ready for your little one’s arrival!

Want to preserve this once-in-a-lifetime moment? Whether your baby is already here, arriving in a few weeks, or still a few months away, I’d love to share more about my luxury studio newborn photography experience or my in-home lifestyle newborn sessions. Contact me today to book your 2025 maternity and newborn session!