Welcome to the nesting phase! As your due date draws near, it's time to transform that excitement into action. But don't fret, we’ve got your back with a handy tool: the Free Printable Nesting Checklist! Because let's be real, those last few months of pregnancy come with a whirlwind of emotions and tasks. From assembling the crib to stocking up on diapers, we've got it all covered. So, kick back, relax, and let's tackle that to-do list together. With this checklist in hand, you'll breeze through the nesting phase like a pro!

Download Free Printable Nesting Checklist 

What is Nesting in Pregnancy?

Nesting during pregnancy is like an instinctual switch that flips on as your due date approaches. It's that sudden urge to organize, clean, and prepare your nest for the arrival of your little bundle of joy. Picture a mama bird meticulously arranging twigs and feathers in her nest – that's you, but with a human touch!

Nesting is more than ticking off a checklist of things to do before the baby arrives. It's not just about scrubbing floors or rearranging furniture (though that can be part of it), but also about creating a cozy, welcoming environment for your baby. You might find yourself obsessing over nursery décor, stocking up on baby essentials, or even cooking up a storm to freeze meals for those hectic post-baby days.

Nesting isn't just about physical tasks either; it's a mental and emotional preparation too. It's the excitement, anticipation, and readiness to embrace the new chapter of motherhood. So, if you suddenly feel the urge to organize your sock drawer at 2 a.m., don't worry – it's just your nesting instincts kicking in!

When Should You Begin Nesting?

The timing of nesting varies for every expectant parent, but it typically kicks into high gear during the third trimester, around the 28-week mark. This is when the reality of impending parenthood starts to sink in, and the urge to prepare for your baby's arrival intensifies. However, some parents-to-be might feel the nesting instinct earlier or later in their pregnancy.

Factors such as individual personality, lifestyle, and circumstances can influence when nesting begins. For example, first-time parents might start nesting earlier as they navigate the excitement and anticipation of becoming parents. On the other hand, experienced parents might delay nesting until later in the pregnancy, especially if they have other children to care for or busy work schedules.

Ultimately, there's no right or wrong time to start nesting. Listen to your instincts and trust your body's signals. Whether you begin preparing your nest early or late, the important thing is to enjoy the process and embrace the journey into parenthood.

Nesting Checklist Before Baby Arrives

Nursery

• Set up furniture: Assemble the crib, changing table, and any other must have baby shopping nursery furniture according to safety guidelines and your desired layout.
• Wash and organize clothes: Launder baby clothes, blankets, and linens using gentle detergent and prepare them for storage or use.
• Arrange drawer/closet: Organize baby's clothing by size and type, making it easy to find what you need when the little one arrives.
• Decorate nursery: Add personal touches with wall decals, pictures, and other decorations to create a warm and welcoming space for your baby.
• Put on bassinet/cot sheets: Dress the crib or bassinet with freshly washed sheets, ensuring a cozy and clean sleeping environment.
• Set up baby mobile etc: Hang a soothing mobile above the crib and any other decorative elements to stimulate your baby's senses and enhance the nursery's ambiance.

Kitchen

• Stock up: Ensure your kitchen is well-stocked with essential pantry items like non-perishable goods, snacks, and beverages to keep you nourished during those early postpartum days. Add this to your newborn shopping list. 
• Freeze foods: Prepare and freeze meals in advance for easy and convenient nourishment once the baby arrives, saving you time and energy in the kitchen.

Car

• Install car seat: Ensure your baby's car seat is properly installed according to manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines, providing a secure and comfortable ride for your little one.
• Attach baby car mirror: Install a baby car mirror on the rear seat to keep an eye on your baby while driving, providing peace of mind and easier communication during car rides.

Bathroom

• Organize baby supplies: Arrange baby toiletries, diapers, wipes, and other essentials in accessible locations, making diaper changes and bath time hassle-free.
• Organize baby bath: Set up a designated area for baby baths, including a baby tub or bath seat, towels, and gentle cleansers for your little one's hygiene needs.
• Stock up on bath essentials (toilet paper etc): Ensure your bathroom is stocked with essentials like toilet paper, tissues, and other toiletries to accommodate your needs as well as your baby's.

Keepsakes

• Take before nursery photos: Capture memories by taking photos of the nursery before it's filled with baby gear, providing a nostalgic glimpse of the anticipation before your little one's arrival.
• Organize a keepsake box: Gather sentimental items like ultrasound photos, hospital bracelets, and newborn mementos in a keepsake box to cherish and share with your child as they grow.
• Plan baby homecoming (outfit, decorations etc.): Prepare for your baby's arrival home with a special outfit, decorations, and any other touches to make the homecoming memorable and heartwarming.
• Set up Baby Book App: Now's the perfect time to organize your baby book! Download the Dujourbaby Memory Book App and start creating your baby book to have it ready for when your little one arrives. Update pregnancy milestones with ultrasound photos and bump pics for a cherished keepsake!

Download and Try Baby Book App for FREE

Changing 

• Organize changing stations: Set up changing stations in key areas of your home, stocked with diapers, wipes, and other essentials for quick and easy diaper changes.
• Pack hospital bag: Prepare a bag with essential items for your hospital stay, including toiletries, comfortable clothes, and baby necessities for both you and your newborn.
• Pack diaper bag: Assemble a diaper bag with diapers, wipes, changing pad, spare clothes, and other essentials for outings with your baby.
• Get familiar with breast pump: If planning to breastfeed, familiarize yourself with your breast pump, including assembly, cleaning, and usage, to ensure a smooth transition once your baby arrives.

Postpartum

• Prepare postpartum clothes: Gather comfortable, loose-fitting clothing suitable for the postpartum period, prioritizing items that accommodate changes in body size and facilitate breastfeeding.
• Organize postpartum recovery essentials: Stock up on postpartum recovery essentials such as sanitary pads, soothing creams, peri bottles, and any prescribed medications to support your physical recovery after childbirth.

Life Admin

• Sort bills and finances: Review and organize bills, set up automatic payments if necessary, and ensure financial matters are in order to alleviate stress during the postpartum period.
• Understand insurance process: Familiarize yourself with your insurance coverage for prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum care to avoid surprises and ensure smooth billing processes.
• Understand birth certificate process: Learn about the process for obtaining your baby's birth certificate, including required documentation and procedures, to streamline the administrative tasks following childbirth.

Embracing Parenthood: A Nesting Checklist for New Beginnings

As you embark on this exciting time of nesting and eagerly await the arrival of your little one, we hope this checklist serves as a helpful guide to ensure you feel prepared and organized. Remember, it's perfectly okay to ask for help along the way – whether it's from friends, family, or professionals. Embrace the journey with open arms, cherish every moment, and trust in your instincts as you navigate parenthood. With the right support and a well-prepared nest, you'll be ready to welcome your bundle of joy with open arms. Congratulations, and happy nesting!