Having a baby brings about a lot of changes. Before you know it, your first thoughts of the day will include ‘How many times did he poop in the night?’ and ‘Was that spit-up or snot that got on the sheet?’ You’ll be researching the benefits of swaddling and googling baby rashes before you know it. A lot of caring for a baby is learning as you go but it’s best to get yourself — and your house — as prepared as possible before the big arrival. Here are some suggestions on how to do just that:
Bedroom
Think about where the baby will sleep once you bring him home from the hospital. Many parents have the baby in their bedroom for the first few months, so there’s not a huge rush to complete a nursery. Instead, purchase a cradle, bassinet or co-sleeper to keep your babe close. Saves you from running next door for those nightly feeds, too!
Bedding — both yours and the baby’s — should be next on the ‘To Do’ list. Less is more when it comes to the baby’s crib as many pediatricians now recommend newborns simply sleep on a flat mattress with fitted sheet and no loose blankets. For the little guy or gal’s parents’ bed, consider duvet covers with a pattern that will hide that inevitable middle-of-the-night spit-up session.
Living Room
Before you know it, the baby will be on the move. Once he or she starts rolling, it’s important to baby proof each room in the house. Put away the sharp-cornered coffee table and line bookcases and fireplace hearths with foam in the living room. Tie up or get rid of all blinds and cords and consider buying a cute tub or chest (with no sharp corners) to keep the toys contained.
Kitchen
Babyproof your kitchen drawers to keep those little fingers from getting pinched and, if you have any hanging pans, make sure they are completely secure. You can have some fun with the decor and get animal or alphabet magnets for the fridge. Pretty soon your child will need a good distraction while you attempt to make dinner! These will also stick to many baby gates, should you require one of those as well.
Bathroom
Finally, make the bathroom a fun yet safe place as well. Secure the drawers and mirror well but then get a little creative with your bath supplies. You can find bath mats in cute colors and animal shapes and the world is your oyster when it comes to shower curtains. Brighten up your loo with a polka-dotted or fish-patterned curtain and the baby will love it.
So, with a little creativity, you can make your house a safe yet fun place to be!