How to Get Housework Done with a Newborn
When you bring your new baby home,
housework is the last thing you feel like doing. You’re exhausted and
this sweet little person demands all of your time and energy.
But
since most of us can’t afford a housekeeper and we don’t want to live
in chaos, take heart. You don’t have to choose between bonding with your
baby and keeping your home clean.
From
taking advantage of nap time to making use of the baby carrier, these
tips for getting household chores done with a newborn will help you
tackle housework without becoming overwhelmed.
Use a baby monitor
Using
a baby monitor was so helpful because once my baby was asleep, I could
easily watch them and be at ease knowing that they were sleeping
contently. A baby monitor is a very convenient product to have because
you don’t need to the nursery and check on your baby every few seconds
to see if they are okay. You can take the monitor with you anywhere you
want. You’ll have peace of mind while getting things done and being
productive.
Take advantage of nap time
You
can take advantage of nap time by being productive or even taking a nap
yourself. I would recommend taking a nap if you’re really tired or you
just want to, napping is okay once in a while. Fold laundry, prep for
dinner, or tidy up the house, take a shower or just read a book. You can
get a lot of things done while your newborn is taking a nap.
Make use of feeding time
You
can use feeding time to your advantage as well. You can catch up with
your emails, search recipes and meal plan, jot down on your phone what
needs to get done. You are still bonding with you baby but getting
things done at the same time.
Have a routine
I
had a routine with all my babies and it helped me get more done. As you
now, newborns sleep most of the day and can work to your advantage. I
would change their diapers, feed them, burp them, and afterwards, they
would fall asleep. And since I knew at around what time they would fall
asleep throughout the day, I was able to plan the things I wanted to
accomplish during those nap time breaks.
Wear your baby
The
easiest way is to use a baby carrier which helps free your arms while
still being able to hold your baby. A baby carrier helps allows you to
be hands-free while being with your little one. Just be sure to avoid
spraying chemicals around your newborn and making any movements that
will put your baby in harm’s way.
What type of baby carrier should you use?
I suggest using a sling or cloth baby wrap for newborns. They are the
most comfortable for both baby and mom. Most structured carriers are not
suitable for newborns.
Use a swing or bouncer
For
all the chores that are harder to do while wearing your baby like
cooking over a hot stove or washing and putting away dishes, a
swing or bouncer is a great option. Finding a quality swing or bouncer
that can be moved around where you go is an easy way for you to watch
your baby ad your baby to see you too. Sometimes all they want is to see
what you are doing.
Ask for help
This
may be obvious, but it is very important. Ask family and friends to
come over and help. They can watch the baby so you can run errands. They
can bring you food so it’s one less meal that you have to cook. And,
whatever you do, don’t feel guilty for asking for help. Our loved ones
want to offer support. So let them. And remember, you can always return
the favor.
Bring your kids on board
Older
kids can help with housework when your newborn arrives. Give your child
a clean sock to put on her hand and let her do some dusting or other
age-appropriate chore. Letting them help will reassure your kids that
they are still a very important part of the newly expanded family.
What are your tips for getting housework done with a newborn?
Hello, I’m Kelly, a regular contributor on this blog. I live in Pennsylvania with my loving husband and our five beautiful children. I have a background in early childhood education, but I am currently homeschooling my kids. From pregnancy to postpartum to toddler life, I love sharing advice with other moms who are having a challenging time with this crazy but wonderful role of motherhood.
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