Organizing for Baby

Preparing for a baby can be overwhelming, even if you are an organized person. The changes your little one brings (sleepless nights, frequent feedings and a whole new lifestyle) are an adjustment in themselves, so get your baby essentials in order before she arrives. Here's a room by room guide:

The Baby's Room:

Design the nursery so accessories, clothing, and supplies are within easy reach but well contained. Start by choosing furniture that comes with extra storage, like a dresser that doubles as a changing table, a crib with drawers beneath it, or an ottoman with a lift up top for toys. Each item should have a specific home, so it is easier to find what you're looking for, and put it away when you're finished with it.

• Arrange the top dresser drawers with clothing your baby is currently wearing.
• Sort and categorize larger sizes in the lower dresser drawers.
• Create closet space for bulkier items like extra bedding (keep all like items together).
• Use a hanging shelf bag to increase the vertical storage space in the closet (since many baby items don't require hangers).Use the shelves for clothing, shoes, toys and blankets.
• Place diapering essentials in one bin or container and keep it handy. Include diapers, wipes, creams or ointments, burp cloths, and a toy (for distractions).
• Contain all similar toys and books in an area that is easy to access for baby for when she is old enough.
• Designate a feeding area, and place a pillow, snacks, and an extra burp cloth in that spot.

The Kitchen:

• Create countertop space for preparing, washing and drying bottles.
• Designate a cabinet close to the sink for bottles, formula, food and utensils.

The Living Room:

• Put together a basket for baby accessories you'd like to have nearby, such as rattles, burp cloths, bibs and pacifiers
• Create a second diapering bin with essentials, so you don't have to trek to the nursery for wipes or diaper cream.
• Decide where to incorporate large items, like a swing, exersaucer, bouncy seat and play mat.

The Bathroom/Linen Closet:

• Line a closet shelf with individually labeled baskets or bins to store washcloths, soap, bath toys and towels. If possible, keep the baby bathtub in the same spot.
• Set up a travel basket of bath essentials, so if you decide to bathe the baby in the sink, you can easily transport supplies.

Organizing for baby should fun, so take time for it well before your due date. You can control how organized your belongings are, but you can't control when your little one decides to make her debut!