The third trimester—you're almost there! This is the phase when everything starts to feel real, and that to-do list seems to grow by the day. To make the final stretch smoother, we've put together an essential third trimester checklist to help you prepare for the big day. From getting your mind and body ready, to setting up the nursery, and even organizing those precious keepsakes, this guide covers everything you need to tackle before your little one arrives.
Download Free Printable Third Trimester Checklist
Prepare for Birth
- Research Birth Options: Explore hospital births, home births, and birthing centers to decide what suits you best.
- Learn Labor Signs & Stages: Understand early labor signs and stages to recognize when to head to the hospital.
- Create Birth Plan: Outline your preferences for labor, delivery, and post-birth care to guide your healthcare team.
- Pack Hospital Bag: Prepare essentials like clothing, toiletries, and baby items well before your due date.
- Attend Birth Classes: Gain confidence by learning pain management techniques and what to expect during labor.
- Know Hospital Drop-off Points: Familiarize yourself with the hospital’s layout, entrances, and parking for a smooth arrival.
Get Ready for Baby
- Install Car Seat: Ensure the car seat is properly installed and meets safety guidelines before bringing baby home.
- Finalize Baby Name: Decide on your baby’s name, making sure it’s a choice you love and feel connected to.
Mind & Body Prep
- Relax and Unwind: Take time to rest and recharge; your body needs it for the upcoming journey.
- Catch Up with Loved Ones: Enjoy quality time with friends and family before baby arrives, strengthening your support network.
- Gather Postpartum Essentials: Stock up on recovery items like pads, nursing bras, and pain relief to ensure a smoother postpartum experience.
- Buy Postpartum Clothes: Choose comfortable, practical clothing that accommodates your post-birth body and makes you feel good.
House Prep
- Clean and Organize: Declutter and deep clean your home to create a welcoming environment for your baby’s arrival.
- Buy/Organize Baby Items: Ensure all essential baby gear, like diapers and bottles, is purchased and organized for easy access.
- Set Up Stations: Create designated areas for changing, feeding, and sleeping to streamline daily routines.
- Set Up Nursery: Arrange the nursery with everything your baby needs, from the crib to storage, making it a cozy and functional space.
- Stockpile Items: Stock up on household essentials like toiletries and non-perishable foods to minimize errands after baby arrives.
- Prepare Freezer Meals: Cook and freeze meals in advance to simplify meal prep during those busy early weeks with your newborn.
Life Admin
- Sort Bills and Finances: Organize and pay upcoming bills to reduce stress during the newborn phase.
- Understand Health Insurance Process: Review your health insurance coverage for birth and postpartum care to avoid any surprises.
- Understand Birth Certificate Process: Familiarize yourself with the steps to obtain your baby’s birth certificate, including necessary documents and timelines.
Baby Keepsakes
- Take Pregnancy Photos: Capture your pregnancy journey with photos to cherish these special moments forever.
- Schedule Newborn Photoshoot: Plan a newborn photoshoot, either DIY or professional, to document your baby’s first days.
- Plan Birth Announcement: Decide how you’ll share your baby’s arrival, whether through social media, cards, or a special announcement.
- Organize a Keepsake Box: Gather mementos like ultrasound photos, baby’s first outfit, and other cherished items in a dedicated keepsake box.
- Plan Homecoming Decorations: Prepare simple decorations to celebrate bringing your baby home, making the moment even more memorable.
- Download & Set Up Baby Book App: Try the Dujourbaby Memory Book App—get notifications, jot down memories, upload photos, and receive a printed book at the end of the first year. Set it up now so it’s ready before baby’s arrival.