10 'Been There, Done That' Mom Hacks For New Moms

You're going to become a mother, and you can't help but wonder how all the other parents out there manage to keep their heads above water. To cut to the chase: (They don't!) You've heard horror stories about the arduous first few weeks with a baby, and you'd love to learn how other mothers have dealt with the stress.

Setting limits (both for others and yourself) is the most important thing I did to survive the insanity of raising three children. Because folks want to come over and see the baby doesn't mean you must play hostess. You have the right to decline. And listen, in the beginning, you shouldn't worry about making the bed, cleaning the kitchen, or making dinner. You can, but it will take some time for your brain and body to readjust.

Here are some "hacks" seasoned mothers have found useful for surviving the infant phase.

Give Yourself Something To Look Forward To

Put aside some of your favorite sweets, snacks, and meals for the difficult feedings that occur around midnight. Two in the morning was a lot easier to get through when I had an ice cream bar or a bag of chips.

Prep Everything Ahead Of The Birth

Prepare meals in double quantities and store one in the freezer as the due date draws near. Also, ensure you have the necessary ingredients for meals that need no cooking, such as smoothies. Employ a cleaning service to carry out a thorough cleaning just before the arrival of the baby.

Shower Power

Placing a bassinet in the bathroom will allow you to shower whenever you want.

Make Things Easy For Yourself

Create a "favorite" list of items to speed up your grocery delivery service. Expect to feel euphoric and have low expectations for what you can do. You should also stock up on a pair of feeding pillows: two, one for your bedroom and one for the living room.

Cabbage For Sore Breasts

Many mothers swear by the curative powers of cold cabbage. It's effective in reducing breast engorgement.

Baby Containment Everywhere Is Key

Get a baby carrier or anything similar that can be simply moved from room to room—easy access to the bathroom, the upper floors, etc.

Say 'Yes' To Help

Learn to take a helping hand. Do not attempt heroic actions. The same goes for when you need assistance. According to common assumptions, you do not have to handle everything alone.

Keep Essentials Downstairs

Keep a toothbrush and toothpaste in the first-floor bathroom. Depending on how your home is set up, you will barely leave the first floor those first few days. You may have one floor. Keep things in the place you'll be the most.

Set Expectations For Visitors

Make sure everyone knows they won't necessarily be allowed to hold the baby during their visit. They may be in the midst of a meal or a nap. As a result, fewer emotions will be injured.

Leave One Message For Everyone Who Wants To Visit

Put in a new voicemail saying, "We are home and all fine," and then hang up. Inform your guests that you will contact them as soon as your home is ready for their arrival.

It's Important To Remember You Just Gave Life To A New Human

That can't be topped by anything else. The priority is your health and the well-being of your unborn child. It's entirely OK to order takeout for a week straight and tell loved ones they can't visit unless they're willing to pitch in. Remember that this is the one moment in your life when you have permission to do whatever makes you happy and fulfills your essential needs.