You might have shopped for the perfect crib and picked up a pack of nappies or two, but there’s still a bunch of important bits to get out of the way before you pop. And we’re not just talking baby stuff – you need to make sure that you’re relaxed and ready for the birth and make the most of the remainder of your pregnancy journey before you move on to the next stage.

Your third trimester might seem to go by in a flash but you have plenty of time to get all this done and out of the way and focus on the new little member of your family.

Pack your hospital bag

There’s no way to predict exactly when your baby will arrive, and you really can’t plan down to the minute like you might like to… Basically, your due date means virtually nothing and your baby doesn’t care about your personal schedule (get used to this mums and dads).  

But one thing you can do is make sure you’re well and truly prepared for when they do decide to grace you with their presence. Packing your hospital bag in advance and packing it in excess and as organised as possible, will save that crumb of sanity you have left when the time comes, trust us.  

Finish the nursery

If you’re like us, you’ve probably spent hours trolling through Pinterest looking for the perfect theme for your little one’s room. And there are so many ideas! Jungle adventurer, under-the-sea, night sky etc. etc…

Check out some of our fave designs here.

There’s nothing better than inspo and support from other parents when decorating but remember, your nursery does not have to be Pinterest perfect and it certainly doesn’t have to cost the earth to decorate. You can get some amazing pre-loved furniture or bargain goods that your little one will destroy as much as the expensive stuff.

Wash & Sort

You’ve stocked up on all your baby vests and sleepwear but remember you’ll need to wash and put them all away again before they’re ready for your little one.  

Babies have super sensitive skin so washing their clothes before they’re used will remove any residue and make sure they’re good to go. And if you’ve managed to bag some pre-loved clothing for your little one, you’ll want to make sure any dust particles are wiped out before they go in the cupboard.

Baby proof

They probably won't be wandering around for a while but who has the time to baby proof when your little one has already taken over the house. If you can, take some time in your pregnancy to baby proof your home and make sure it is safe for your new arrival to live in.

This can include:

• Making sure all doors and draws are able to stay closed and not be prised open by little hands (mostly so they don’t get into the cleaning cupboard).
• Keeping extra blankets, pillows and crib bumpers out of their crib so they don’t become tangled.
• Surveying some of the heavier objects around the house and making sure they’re not in a place where they could fall and cause an injury.
• Getting yourself some socket covers to avoid little fingers getting into electrical holes.
• Taking a look at your blinds and curtains and making sure there are no hanging strings that your little one could get tangled in.  

Treat yourself

Take some time out of your pregnancy and make it all about you. Get a pedicure, go to the hairdressers, have a spa evening – whatever you do to relax, do it now.

You could even have one last 'pre-parent' night and go on a date night with your partner – celebrate the cracking job you’re doing growing a child and toast to the amazing parents you’ll be.

Sleep!

The most important task of them all. Get in as many good and full night's sleep as you can before your little one arrives. You never know – you could get a really good sleeper and your routine could hardly change… But just in case.