If you’re searching for a helpful pregnancy checklist, you’re probably trying to get organised without overwhelming yourself. As a Pretoria maternity and newborn photographer, I chat with expecting moms every week who say, “I feel like there’s so much to do before baby comes.” The truth is, you don’t need a perfect home or a huge shopping list. You only need calm, simple steps that make life easier during those first few weeks. A realistic plan helps you feel prepared, supported and confident. This guide focuses on things that actually matter — things that make your home feel ready and your heart feel lighter.
1. Prepare a small, functional sleep space
You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect nursery. For many Pretoria moms, a simple bedside cot works beautifully. Wash your bedding, place a fitted sheet and keep the space free of clutter. Babies sleep best when the area around them is calm. Even if you have big plans for decorating later, focus on function now. Your baby just needs a safe, flat place to sleep close to you. This small step gives you peace of mind during night feeds and early mornings.
2. Wash and fold a few essential outfits
Many moms overprepare clothing, but newborns only need a small rotation at first. Wash and fold five to seven onesies, some vests, a warm blanket and two swaddles. Soft, breathable fabric keeps your newborn comfortable. You can add more clothing once you know your baby’s size and the season’s temperature. A simple start is enough — your pregnancy to-do list does not need to be long or expensive.
3. Set up a feeding corner
Choose a comfortable chair, keep a water bottle nearby and add burp cloths within reach. Whether you breastfeed or bottle-feed, feeding becomes easier when everything is close by. A small basket next to your chair can hold nappies, wipes, nipple cream or extra bottles. Moms often tell me they spend many hours in this one spot, so make it cosy and gentle for your body.
4. Pack your hospital bag early
This is a classic item on every pregnancy checklist before baby arrives. Pack comfy pyjamas, toiletries, snacks, chargers, baby’s going-home outfit and important documents. Add a cosy gown and socks — hospitals can feel cold. Packing early removes last-minute stress, especially if your baby surprises you and comes sooner than expected.
5. Install and check the car seat
Practice buckling and unbuckling the seat before baby arrives. Make sure the straps sit at the correct height and the base is secure. This is one of the most important items on any pregnancy checklist, and it’s easy to overlook until the hospital discharge moment. A few minutes of preparation saves stress later.
6. Create a simple nappy station
You don’t need a fancy setup. A small table or basket with nappies, wipes, bum cream and a change mat works perfectly. Keep the area stocked and ready, especially for those late-night changes when you don’t have extra energy.
7. Stock up on easy snacks and freezer meals
The early days can feel busy and blurry. Snacks like nuts, fruit, yoghurt, muffins and sandwiches help keep your energy up. Preparing a few freezer meals makes a big difference during the newborn period.
8. Charge and prepare your phone for baby photos
This is one of my favourite checklist items. Make space on your phone, back up old images, and keep a charger next to your bed. Babies change quickly in the first few weeks, and you’ll want to capture those tiny details you never want to forget.
9. Arrange support before birth
Ask a friend or family member to help with meals, school lifts or quick check-ins. Support doesn’t need to be big — small kindnesses make the postpartum weeks feel softer. It also helps you rest, heal and bond with your baby.
10. Take a moment for yourself
This isn’t on most checklists, but it matters. Go for a slow walk, take a long shower, or write a small letter to your baby. Calm moments help you feel grounded before life shifts into a new rhythm.
Final Thoughts on Pregnancy Checklist
A good checklist doesn’t overwhelm you — it simply helps you feel prepared for what matters most. Keep it simple, realistic and gentle. You’re building a soft landing for both you and your baby.
Now, if you are still pregnant, don’t snooze on booking your maternity photoshoot.
Here is a quick post that you might like:Newborn First Night Home – What Pretoria Moms Should Expect
