by Kristen Moore

Created on: November 17, 2011   Last Updated: December 29, 2011

So your feet are swelling, your back aches mercilessly, and painful heartburn is plaguing you. Indeed, the third trimester of pregnancy can simultaneously become a joyous and stressful occasion. While you will soon get to meet your new blessing, the stresses of having a new baby in the house may seem overwhelming. Before your baby arrives, it is mandatory that you prepare your home for the circumstances. Following is a guide to making home preparations for the newest addition to your family.

Get the Nursery Up and Running

Even if you are feeling sick and exhausted, it is always best to prepare the nursery before your child’s arrival. Although you might not be in the best shape at the moment, you will only be more stressed and sleep-deprived after the baby arrives. Go ahead and select a room for your child’s nursery. Make sure that you have a crib and a bassinet ready for sleep arrangements. If you would like for the baby to sleep in your room with you, set up the bassinet in your bedroom. Regardless as to where your baby will sleep, make sure that there are no fluffy blankets or pillows in the vicinity – these can be a suffocation hazard.

Think like a Baby

In order to baby-proof your home, it is best to put yourself in the mindset of a small child. Although you may feel silly doing this, try crawling around your house, so that you are on the same level as a baby. This way, you can clearly see all of the hazardous situations that might peak your child’s interest. Your baby will not be able to crawl for several months, but time sneaks up much sooner than you realize. When scanning your home for hazards, make a note of all the electrical outlets and wires. Since these could be an electrocution hazard to your baby, all sockets will need to be covered. Additionally, keep your eye out for small objects. Babies instinctively place such objects in their mouths. Since these are common choking hazards, all small objects must be removed from the area.

Seal off Cabinets and Drawers

Children love to discover new things. Unfortunately, these new things include your tools, eating utensils and cleaning supplies. Since all of these items pose a serious threat to your child’s well being, all drawers and cabinets must be securely sealed with child locks. If you have a cabinet that is impossible to seal, it is mandatory that all hazardous objects be moved to an inaccessible area.       

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