Bringing a baby into your life is magical, beautiful… and honestly? A little chaotic. Before you’re knee-deep in diapers, sleepless nights, and baby giggles, one of the kindest things you can do for yourself is decluttering your space. Trust me — as a minimalist mama myself, clearing out the clutter before your little one arrives is a total game changer.
So today, I’m walking you through 10 things to declutter before having a baby, with practical tips and no judgment (we’ve all got that junk drawer).
Let’s make room — for bottles, for blankets, and most importantly, for peace. 💛
Why Decluttering Before Baby is So Important
Let’s be real. Babies come with stuff. Even if you’re aiming for a minimalist baby registry, the bottles, burp cloths, and swaddles pile up fast. But it’s not just about space — it’s about mental clarity, too.
Decluttering before your baby arrives:
- Reduces overwhelm during postpartum
- Makes your home easier to clean
- Helps you focus on what matters (like snuggling your newborn)
Now, let’s dive into exactly what you should declutter — and why.
1. Excess Clothing
Let’s start with your closet. If it hasn’t been worn in over a year or doesn’t fit your lifestyle anymore, it’s time to let it go.
Why it matters:
You’ll likely spend the first few months postpartum living in cozy loungewear and nursing-friendly tops. Clearing space now means easier access to what you actually wear.
Tip:
Create three piles: Keep, Donate, and “Try Again in 6 Months.” Trust your gut.
2. Duplicate Kitchen Tools
Do you really need three vegetable peelers? Be honest.
Why it matters:
You’ll need space for baby bottles, formula makers, or a bottle drying rack — not five spatulas.
Tip:
Keep your favorite version of each tool. Donate or recycle the rest. Less clutter = more counter space.
3. Expired Pantry & Bathroom Items
This one’s easy and satisfying.
Why it matters:
Old spices, meds, or expired face creams take up space and energy. You’ll want fresh, simple essentials within reach once baby arrives.
Tip:
Set a timer for 15 minutes and do a sweep. Toss anything expired or unused.
4. Unused Baby Gear from Older Siblings
If this isn’t your first baby, go through your stored gear.
Why it matters:
Styles change, safety standards change — and let’s be honest, some things just didn’t work for your first kid.
Tip:
Keep what’s still safe and useful. Donate or recycle the rest.
5. Old Paperwork
You won’t want to sort through tax forms or utility bills when you’re running on 2 hours of sleep.
Why it matters:
Paper clutter causes invisible stress. It piles up quickly and hides important documents.
Tip:
Digitize what you can. Recycle what you don’t need. Create one folder labeled “Important” for baby-related paperwork.
6. “Someday” Projects & Craft Supplies
That half-finished scrapbook from 2016? Yeah. Let’s talk.
Why it matters:
Clutter from unfinished hobbies can make you feel guilty every time you look at it.
Tip:
Let go of what no longer excites you. Keep only the creative supplies you’ll realistically use in the next year.
7. Mismatched Containers & Tupperware
The lids with no bottoms? The bottoms with no lids? BYE.
Why it matters:
Baby bottles, pump parts, and snacks will soon fill your cabinets. Don’t waste time digging through a Tupperware jungle.
Tip:
Match everything. Toss or recycle what’s missing pieces.
8. Bulky Furniture or Decor
That huge coffee table might have been cool in your 20s, but it’s not baby-friendly.
Why it matters:
You’ll want open floor space for tummy time, play mats, or just walking around with a sleepy baby in your arms.
Tip:
Rehome pieces that no longer serve your new lifestyle. Embrace cozy minimalism.
9. Books You’ll Never Read
We all have them — that “someday” pile we never touch.
Why it matters:
You’ll have less time (and brainpower) for reading in the early months. Keeping only what inspires or soothes you creates a calming space.
Tip:
Donate what doesn’t light you up. Keep a few favorites for quiet feeding times.
10. Random Junk Drawer Stuff
You know the one — filled with expired coupons, dead batteries, and maybe a few mystery keys?
Why it matters:
That drawer becomes a catch-all for stress. A clear junk drawer = a clear mind.
Tip:
Dump it out. Only put back what truly belongs. Label compartments if you’re feeling extra.
Bonus: Emotional Clutter
Not everything that needs decluttering is physical.
Maybe it’s expectations. Maybe it’s perfectionism. Maybe it’s guilt around asking for help. Mama, you don’t need to carry it all.
Give yourself grace. Let go. Make space — physically and emotionally — for the beautiful mess that is motherhood.
Final Thoughts: Make Space for What Matters
Preparing your home for a baby doesn’t have to mean buying more — it can also mean clearing out what no longer serves you.
When you declutter with intention, you’re saying “yes” to peace, clarity, and presence.
And trust me, once that baby is in your arms, you’ll be so glad you made space. 💛
