Having a baby is magical, beautiful, and wonderful. And honestly? A little chaotic. It means that before you have to deal with the little one's dirty diapers and sleepless nights, one of the nicest things you can do for yourself is to declutter your space. As a minimalist mama myself, I know firsthand that getting rid of the clutter before the baby arrives makes all the difference.
So today, I'm sharing 10 things to declutter before having a baby, with tips, no judgment (we all have that junk drawer).
Let's give space for bottles and blankets, and more importantly, peace. 💛.
Why Decluttering Before Baby is So Important
Let's be real. Babies come with stuff. If you're putting together a minimalism-pantry-essentials-that-save-money-and-reduce-waste" class="auto-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">essentials-what-you-really-need-and-what-to-skip" class="auto-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">minimalist baby registry, they give you the bottles, burp cloths, and swaddles fast. It's not just about space but also about getting a clear mind.
Decluttering before your baby arrives:
- Reduces overwhelm during postpartum.
- Makes your home easier to clean.
- Allows you to focus on what matters (like snuggling with your newborn).
👉 Declutter Emotional Clutter: 5 Questions To Ask Before You Keep or Toss
1. Excess Clothing
Let's start with your closet. Toss it out if you haven't used it in a year, or if it doesn't match your larger life anymore.
Why it matters: You should wear loungewear and breastfeeding-friendly tops for the first few months after giving birth. Clearing out closet space now makes it easier to get to things you actually wear.
Tip: Make three stacks: Keep, donate, and "try again in 6 months." Follow your gut.
2. Duplicate Kitchen Tools
Do you really need three vegetable peelers? Be honest.
Why it matters: You'll need room 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.
👉 Kitchen Minimalism Pantry Essentials
3. Expired Pantry & Bathroom Items
This one's easy and satisfying.
Why it matters: Having old spices, meds, and expired face cream takes up space and energy. Fresh and simple essentials will be within easy reach of the baby.
Tip: Set a timer for 15 minutes and do a sweep. Toss anything expired or unused.
Hack: According to the U.S. Expired cosmetics can cause severe infections: American Food and Drug Administration Not worth the risk.
4. Unused Baby Gear from Older Siblings
If this isn't your first baby, go through your stored gear.
Why it matters: Safety standards and design change — and let's be honest, some things didn't work for your first kid.
Tip: Keep what's still safe and useful. Donate or recycle the rest.
👉 For tips, see our Secondhand Baby Gear Guide.
5. Old Paperwork
When you're on 2 hours of sleep, you do not want to sort through tax forms or utility bills.
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. Make one folder named "Important" for baby documents.
6. Future Project Supplies and Tools
That half-finished scrapbook from 2016? Yeah. Let's talk.
Why it matters: The guilt from unfinished hobbies can clutter your space and mind, and get in the way of your mood and creativity.
Tip: Let go of what no longer excites you. Make sure to keep only the creative materials that you will need.
👉 Top 5 Overlooked Declutter Spots in the House You’re Forgetting
7. Mismatched Containers & Tupperware
The lids with no bottoms? The bottoms with no lids? BYE.
Why it matters: Soon, the cupboard will be overflowing with bottles, pump parts, and snacks. 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 large coffee table may have been fun in your 20s, but it is not baby-safe.
Why it matters: You'll need some space on the floor for tummy time, play mats, or just walking around with a sleepy baby.
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 will have less time and brainpower for reading as the months go on. A space that only contains the things that inspire you or soothe you will create a bubble of calm within you.
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 that is full of expired coupons, dead batteries, and 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.
👉 Use the 10-10-100 Decluttering Method here — 10 minutes, 10 items, repeat.
Bonus: Emotional Clutter
Not everything that needs decluttering is physical.
It could be expectations. It may be 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 for the beautiful mess of motherhood, both physically and emotionally.
✨ Make Space for What Matters – Final Thoughts
Just because you're preparing your home for a baby doesn't mean it all has to be about 'buying more'. It could also mean clearing out!
Decluttering with intention gives you the gift of peace, clarity, and presence.
And believe me, after you have your hands on the cuddly newborn, you'll be happy you made room. 💛.
