Kids are a wonderful addition to your small family. They can bring joy and happiness to every home. However, having a baby needs work. You need to prepare for the baby’s needs, your finances, as well as your home.
If your home is not designed for a child, you will have some serious redecorating to do. Making sure that your home is baby-proof is important. Soon enough, the baby will be a crawling toddler, and you have to prepare for that, too.
If you live in a home with multiple rooms, you have a larger space to consider. However, living in a condo can have challenges as well. You can hire a professional to take care of your condo interior design. Here are some steps that you can take to make sure that your home is ready for its newest addition:
1. Clean your home.
Before your newborn baby arrives, make sure to deep clean your home. A newborn can be a sensitive little bundle, so you need to ensure that your home is free from mold and mildew. Vacuum the floors and carpets. Wash the draperies, change the beddings, and vacuum your furniture.
You might also want to schedule a visit from your HVAC maintenance guy to ensure that your ducts and vents are clean. Clean your AC filters to ensure that your indoor air is safe, even for your newborn.
2. Prepare your baby’s space.
Whether you plan to have a nursery or your baby will be in the same room as you, you must prepare a comfortable crib. It must have railings sturdy and be high enough to prevent the baby from falling when he or she rolls over. Make sure that the mattress is comfortable and firm enough to support your baby. You might want to have a waterproof covering on the mattress to prevent accidents.
Make sure that you have a place for all your baby’s necessities nearby. From baby wipes, diapers, cloth wipes, to sensory toys, they must always be within your reach. If your crib comes with a changing table, good for you. If not, have the changing table nearby.
For some sensory stimulation, hang a baby mobile with colorful toys to entertain and stimulate your baby. You can choose a musical device, which can help your baby fall asleep easily.
If you are planning to have a nursery, have it next to your bedroom. This way, you can be at your baby’s side when he or she needs you. Choose light colors for the wall to calm and relax your baby. Skip the carpet, as it can be a place where dust and allergens can gather.
You can find a place where you can sit down or rest while watching your baby. Make sure to use only the safest materials for your nursery. Choose natural paints that have the NF label. Some paints can be harmful to your baby. Make sure that no furniture is near the crib. Lastly, make sure that all electrical sockets are out of your baby’s reach.
3. Prepare the rest of your home.
Of course, you will need to check the rest of your home. Examine your furniture for sharp edges or corners that you must look out for. Cover them with padding to protect your baby. Make sure that shelves and cabinets are stable so that you reduce the risks of them falling over your crawling child.
Keep away dangerous chemicals such as cleaning agents and detergents. Have them on shelves with doors where a toddler cannot reach them. Keep knives, scissors, and other sharp tools away and out of reach.
You need to consider rearranging your furniture to create a safer space for the baby. If possible, get rid of carpets in your living room to ensure that your home is free from dust mites, mold spores, and other allergens.
Do not bring your shoes inside. This will prevent you from bringing more dirt and germs inside your home. Soon, your baby will be crawling on those floors, and you want them to be germ-free.
4. Prepare a place for your visitors.
Family members who wish to lend you a hand might come and stay for a few nights to help you take care of your newborn. Thus, prepare a space for them. Have some extra toiletries ready in case Grandma will want to spend the night with the baby.
You can do other things to prepare for a new baby. Ensuring that your home is safe for your newborn is a must. By the time you come home with your bundle of joy, you can rest assured that your baby is in a safe and comforting place.
