Nesting To-Dos for Soon-to-Be Moms

Birds do it, and so do cats, apes and other mammals preparing for birth. Nesting is an instinctual mechanism that prepares your “empty nest” to suddenly become quite full. And trust us: You’ll want to make the most of the impulse before baby arrives and finding a moment to shower will seem like a serious challenge.

Nesting is like spring cleaning on steroids—it’s all about organization, cleanliness and preparation. Here’s a bunch of last-minute details that you’ll want to check off your list before going into labor, so you can put your mind and ease and relax before the big day:

• Prep Your Essentials

• Cook in Quantity

• Do Laundry

Wash your towels, duvet cover, pillow shams, throw rugs, guest sheets, and anything else that needs a once-over before the baby arrives. Use an alternative to hefty chemical detergents. I like Dapple products because they contain eco-friendly formulas that are safe for your family and the environment. If you live in a place where you don’t have access to laundry, consider hiring a laundry service to take care of your needs for the first six weeks until you get into a rhythm. Stock up on your preferred detergent and cleaning solutions, because you’ll be washing lots and lots of little onesies, pajamas, and receiving blankets.

• Load Up Your Pantry

Stock up on staples like it’s going out of style—because it is. You won’t be doing the shopping once the baby arrives—you won’t have time. It’s all about keeping the pantry healthy and convenient. Think nuts (the perfect nutrient-dense nibbler), trail mix, quinoa, and broths for easy soups. Other goods to get as you prepare for birth: whole-grain crackers, canned beans, brown rice, and healthy sauces.

• Order Birth Announcements

You can get these online or at a stationery store, so they’re ready to go as soon as you know the final baby stats. Address the envelopes now so they’re ready to be stuffed and mailed. They have a variety of designs and you don’t have to bother with postage unless you really want to.

• Restock Your Refrigerator

Out with the old, in with the new! Throw away any outdated items and shop for fresh ones. Stock up on foods for breastfeeding that you’ll want to have on hand once baby arrives, like filtered water, fruits, veggies, hummus, prewashed salad greens and so on. Make it easy on yourself and order your groceries online.

• Spring into Clean Mode

Do you know the spring cleaning that you’re always putting off until next fall? Whatever the season, now’s the time to tackle it while your nesting instinct is in full swing. Wipe down the window sills and blinds, wash the floors, and vacuum under the couch and between the cushions—you may find a nice chunk of change while you’re at it! Be sensible in your quest for cleanliness: Call in a team of friends, blast some good dance music, and get moving. Use chemical-free cleaning solvents. I love Mrs. Meyer’s brand and Honest Company. Don’t push yourself if you’re pooped. Instead, push someone else, like your partner. Stay as close to the floor as possible. In fact, hanging out on hands and knees scrubbing the floors Cinderella-style is not a bad idea. The position helps to open up your pelvis and the hip-swaying encourages your baby to move down into the pelvic outlet.

• Style Baby

Don’t overbuy while you prepare for birth, but make sure you’re well-stocked on those newborn essentials (T-shirts, onesies, sweaters, receiving blankets, and booties). Prewash baby’s outfits so there are plenty of things for her to wear. If you haven’t had a baby shower, put together a registry online to get all the basics and beyond.

• Style Mama

Get fitted for the big day and postpartum. Buy adjustable nursing bras as well as nursing pads and easy-open nursing shirts. And stock up on soft, full-back cotton underwear. Your thong days are over for a bit, my friend. You’ll need big bloomer action for the first few weeks after the birth. Don’t go for the expensive undies here, as they may become stained with blood and discharge.