"The first few weeks with a newborn can be described as utter chaos. Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth, there’s a lot happening in your suddenly very full (and likely messy) house.
But with a little preparation, I realized my house could be transformed into a baby-ready space. My first baby happened to spit up a lot, so I initially needed burp cloths strategically placed within arms reach of anywhere I might be. Once I had those set, I then started adding other items, like snacks, water bottles, a change of clothes (for me and baby), and so on. The piles of gear continued to grow until I decided to get myself organized and made well-stocked stations around the house.
These stations were immensely helpful with a newborn and I recommend setting these up before you even bring your baby home. These stations can be all over your house, including where you plan to feed your baby, where you might rock your baby to sleep, and so on. With these stations, there’s still going to be chaos, but at least now it’s organized chaos.
Below are suggestions for what to include in your stations. Not every item is essential, choose what feels right for your situation.
A Place to Put Everything
Consider buying a couple of small baskets to place around your house, or go big with a 3-tier utility cart for the place you plan to spend the most time.
A storage caddy is a great option to hold a smaller selection of gear. Plus, you can easily grab it with one hand if you're moving around the house.
Feeding Essentials
Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, you’re going to spend a lot of time feeding your newborn and you’ll want the right products nearby.
If breastfeeding is leading to sore or painful nipples, this cream may help.
The Haakaa is a great item to use while breastfeeding to help collect extra milk.
Spit up happens a lot. Make sure you have a burp cloth within arms reach whenever you're with your baby.
The Elvie Curve is a newer take on a manual pump. It has a similar function to the Haakaa but can be worn in your bra and therefore won't be kicked off by your baby while nursing.
If you're experiencing leaking, these pads will help keep your shirt dry.
It's common to have bad posture while breastfeeding. Avoid hunching and use a pillow, like this one from Boppy, for extra support.
Source: @karissfarris
Snacks, Hydration, and Comfort for Mom
It’s not just about what your baby needs, it’s also about what you need. Keep yourself well-fed, hydrated, and comfortable.
Hydration is super important for mom, especially if breastfeeding. Keep a large water bottle nearby for sipping throughout the day.
Just as important as hydration is eating enough. These bars by Boobie* may help support milk production.
These oat bars are another great snack option to have for a quick bite. They are also great for toddlers, so should a hungry older sibling stop by, you'll have something for them as well.
If you're feeling run down, a quick swipe with one of these cooling towels will make you feel refreshed.
Calming and Comfort Items
At some point or another, you’re going to deal with a fussy baby. Stock the items that help to calm your baby and you’ll both be happier.
If your baby is fussing, swaddling them may help to calm them down.
You can never have too many pacifiers around the house for a fussy little one.
These loveys by Wubanubb are another sweet item to have nearby to calm your baby.
And finally, even if you're sitting down, you may need to pop your little one into a carrier for a closer hold. This carrier by Nesting Days is easy to put on and allows for skin-to-skin time.