Are you expecting a new baby in the next few weeks?


The anticipation can be exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. But don't worry, I've got your back! I've rounded up my top 5 tips for getting your home ready for your new arrival in just a couple of weeks.


As a mother who's been through the newborn phase 4 times, I've gathered some simple but effective ideas and tips that you might not have thought of before!

expecting mother in lace dress cradling bump mullingar westmeath newborn photographer
  • Batch cook


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 easy to batch cook meals like


  • Cottage pie
  • Chicken & Vegtable Soup
  • Pasta Bake
  • Chicken, Lentil, or Veggie Curry


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


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.

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! 


  • Stock up on essentials (& not just baby essentials)


You’re likely already stocking up on things like nappys, wipes, bottles, etc.

But have you considered stocking up on regular household items like toilet paper, washing powder etc


My best tip would be to start online shopping with Dunnes Stores it will record all of your past purchases making it easy for you to quickly order what you need and have it delivered to your door. So you never have to worry about running out those first few months with your newborn!

Mullingar Westmeath Newborn Photographer baby girl held in mams arms holding her finger
  • Put together a baby care basket 


This is a great one!

A baby care basket, or sometimes called a “downstairs” 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

  • nappys
  • wipes
  • muslin cloths
  • extra clothes
  • soother, and anything else you might need for the baby frequently.


I also like to think about including things for Mum like

  • nipple cream
  • breast pads
  • chapstick
  • bottle of water
  • phone charger.


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


  • Light your home the right way


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? 
  • Dimmer switch for 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.


I found these ones from Amazon great and still use them now in my childrens room at night. Click Here

And Lastly - Prepare Your Wardrobe!!

..... keep reading

Mother breastfeeding her little boy Mullingar Westmeath Newborn photographer

Preparing your wardrobe for the first 2-3 weeks postpartum is an important step in getting ready for the arrival of your new baby.


This is something I didn’t prepare for the first time and I wish I had. I remember my feet swelling so much that I went up a shoe size and had nothing to fit.


Comfort and functionality are key during this time! Of course you're thinking a lot about how to prepare for the baby, but don’t forget about yourself!


I don’t know about you, but when I feel good it makes all the difference, and that starts with getting dressed in the morning!



Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that can accommodate changes in your body shape and allow for easy breastfeeding access if you do plan to breastfeed.


Consider investing in a few nursing bras, loose-fitting trousers or leggings, and comfortable tops that are easy to pull up or down. Some women also find it helpful to have a couple of flowy dresses on hand for a dressier option.


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 prioritise comfort and practicality. By doing so, you can focus on bonding with your new baby without worrying about your clothing or physical discomfort!


I hope you've found the Effective ways to prep your home for a new baby, from a Mum of 4 |Mullingar Westmeath Newborn Photographer blog post helpfull. If you did please let me know.


And if you're looking for a Mullingar Westmeath Newborn Photographer just click here to see my newborn session details.