Nesting during pregnancy: Tips and signs to look out for
If you're an expectant mother, you might find yourself suddenly tidying the house and organizing everything in sight. This instinctive behavior, known as "nesting", is a natural part of preparing for the arrival of your newborn. In this article, we'll discuss what it is, what the signs are, and tips for doing it efficiently without wearing yourself out.
What is nesting?
Nesting is a natural instinct when you feel an urge to clean, declutter, and make sure your home (or "nest") is ready for your new baby. This burst of energy typically kicks in in the last few weeks or months of pregnancy. While the exact causes are unclear, it may be linked to hormonal changes or serve as a way to cope with pregnancy anxiety. Not every parent-to-be experiences it, but for those who do, it can help you focus attention on tasks that may have been put off.
What are nesting signs?
You might be nesting if you notice yourself doing the following:
- Deep cleaning all corners of the house
- Tidying up everything in sight
- Wanting to stay home more
- Planning for birth
- Planning for the months after birth
- Packing and repacking your hospital bag
- Meal-prepping far in advance
- Constantly babyproofing your home
- Setting up the nursery
- Stocking up on baby items
Tips for nesting
If you need tips to help satisfy your nesting instincts, here are some activity ideas to get you started, but it’s crucial to take things at your own pace — don’t overdo it, so you can avoid any physical or emotional stress.
Making lists
Instead of letting all your ideas and to-do tasks swirl around in your head, put them down on paper. This can help visualize what you've done and what you've got left to do. Checking things off can give you a great sense of accomplishment, too.
Batch cooking and stocking up
If you have more energy while you're nesting, you could use that to stock the fridge or the pantry with non-perishable items. You could also batch-cook meals to store in the freezer. These can come in handy when you're busy with your newborn and have less time to prepare your meals.
Cleaning your home
Be mindful of your energy levels in the build-up to your baby's arrival, but if you have the urge to clean more or tidy, make sure you wear gloves and avoid toxic cleaning products. Open the windows to air out the house, and avoid lifting anything heavy. For any tasks you don't have the energy to tackle, remember to ask for help from your other half, your friends, or your family.
Purchasing newborn essentials
Create a list of essential baby products you'll need from birth. Items such as six-month-old baby clothes and baby spoons can wait, but you’ll need some newborn must-haves — such as a crib, diapers, onesies, bottles, and a newborn stroller — well before your due date.
When it comes to newborn strollers, Bugaboo newborn strollers let you explore with your baby from birth and are made for the smoothest rides. They sail over bumps, and each spacious bassinet offers next-level naps for your new arrival. From the all-terrain Bugaboo Fox 5 and the compact Bugaboo Dragonfly, to the Bugaboo Donkey 5 for more than one, there's an option for any family.
Assembling in advance
Put together any DIY furniture that comes in parts or requires setup. Avoid waiting until the last minute. Whenever possible, choose products that are easy to fold and assemble.
For example, if you're looking for a portable cot, the Bugaboo Stardust is a one-second pop-up play yard. It has an all-in-one design that unfolds in one second, so you’re ready for rest and play in an instant. Folding is just as easy, and it folds into a streamlined package for simple storage. The built-in mattress lets your baby rest, wriggle, and play in comfort. And the zip-in bassinet gives you easier access to interact with your newborn.
If you are setting up a nursery for your baby, then try and do that in advance as well to avoid extra stress and tasks when they arrive.
Digital nesting
Nesting isn’t just about organizing your home — it’s also about decluttering your digital life. Catch up on your emails, wrap up any work handovers before maternity leave, and set up automatic bill payments. Clearing these tasks can give you peace of mind, knowing there’s nothing left undone.
Prepping the car
If you have a car or plan to travel home from the hospital in a car, then make sure you set up a secure infant car seat before their arrival. Doing this before your due date will help avoid last-minute stress.
The Bugaboo Turtle Air Shield by Nuna offers top comfort and security for your baby on the road, and it's simple to install. It pairs seamlessly with your Bugaboo stroller to make a travel system (adapters are needed), so you can move your baby from car to stroller and back again. If you have two cars, consider adding another car seat base for extra convenience.
Do things at your own pace
Most importantly, prep for your baby's arrival your way. Create to-do lists you feel comfortable with, be kind to yourself, and remember that what matters most to your baby is having a loving and dependable parent by their side.
The journey begins
Nesting is a natural instinct, so if you have the energy, channel it in a way that works for you, fits your lifestyle, and doesn't put you under any stress. Listen to your body and rest when needed, so you feel mentally and emotionally ready for your baby's arrival.