Welcome Home! The First 24 Hours At Home With Your New Baby

What To Expect And How To Prepare

Bringing your newborn home for the first time is an exciting and monumental experience. After spending time at the hospital, you’re ready to start this new chapter as a family. However, the first day at home with a baby can also be filled with a mix of emotions — joy, nervousness, and perhaps a little anxiety. Here’s what to expect on this big day and how to set yourself up for success during this transition.

1. The Homecoming

Walking through the door with your newborn is a moment you’ll never forget. The first thing to remember is to take a deep breath and enjoy the experience. You might feel pressure to have everything “perfect,” but the most important thing is ensuring you and your baby feel safe, comfortable, and supported.

• Prepare Your Space: Before coming home, set up a comfortable, cozy space for you and your baby. Have the essentials ready — a place for the baby to sleep, diapers, wipes, feeding supplies (whether it’s bottles or breastfeeding equipment), and baby clothes within reach.

• Limit Visitors: It can be tempting for family and friends to stop by, but it’s important to allow yourself time to settle in without the added pressure of hosting. If you prefer, you can let visitors know you’ll welcome them after you’ve had a little time to adjust.

2. Feeding Your Baby

Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or a combination of both, feeding your baby will be one of the main activities of the day. Newborns typically feed every 2 to 3 hours, but this can vary, especially if they’re cluster feeding (when a baby wants to feed more frequently in a short period).

• Breastfeeding: If you’re breastfeeding, it’s normal to feel like your baby is feeding almost constantly. This frequent feeding helps establish your milk supply. It may take time to get comfortable with breastfeeding, so don’t hesitate to ask for help from a lactation consultant if you’re feeling unsure.

• Formula Feeding: If you’re formula feeding, make sure you have plenty of bottles ready and pre-measured formula to make feedings smoother. Feeding on demand — when your baby shows signs of hunger, like rooting or sucking on their hands — is the best approach in the early days.

3. Sleep (For You and Baby)

Newborns sleep a lot — about 16 to 18 hours a day — but they sleep in short bursts, often waking up every 2 to 3 hours to eat. It’s common for newborns to have their days and nights mixed up, so don’t be surprised if your baby is more alert at night.

• Sleep When Baby Sleeps: This classic advice is easier said than done, but try to rest when your baby does, especially during the first few days. Let go of household chores or distractions and prioritize your sleep, even if it’s just for short naps.

• Safe Sleep Practices: Ensure your baby’s sleep environment is safe by following safe sleep guidelines. Your baby should sleep on their back, on a firm surface like a crib or bassinet, with no loose bedding, pillows, or toys nearby. This reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

4. Diapering and Baby Care

You’ll likely go through several diaper changes during your first day home. Expect to see a variety of bowel movements, starting with meconium (dark, sticky stools) that transition to lighter-colored poop as your baby begins to eat more.

• Diaper Changing: Have all diapering supplies ready in multiple areas of the house, such as diapers, wipes, diaper cream, and a change of clothes. This will make the frequent changes easier.

• Bathing: There’s no need to bathe your baby on the first day home unless it’s necessary. Newborns typically only need sponge baths until their umbilical cord stump falls off (usually within the first few weeks). For now, focus on cleaning their face, neck, and diaper area with a warm cloth.

5. Managing Your Own Recovery

While your focus will be on caring for your newborn, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, your body is still healing. You’ll likely experience soreness, fatigue, and potentially postpartum bleeding.

• Rest and Hydrate: Keep yourself hydrated and try to eat nourishing meals to fuel your recovery. If you can, have meals prepared in advance, or ask friends and family to help with food.

• Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask your partner, family, or friends for help with household tasks or baby care. It’s okay to lean on others during this time.

6. Emotional Adjustment

The first day home can stir up many emotions, ranging from pure joy to moments of feeling overwhelmed. This is completely normal. The postpartum period is a time of intense hormonal changes, and it’s natural to experience mood swings.

• Baby Blues: Many new mothers experience the "baby blues," characterized by feelings of sadness, irritability, or anxiety. These typically subside within a few weeks. However, if these feelings persist or intensify, it may be a sign of postpartum depression, and it’s important to reach out to a healthcare provider.

• Bonding with Baby: Bonding doesn’t always happen instantly, and that’s okay. Focus on spending time with your baby, holding them, engaging in skin-to-skin contact, and enjoying their presence. The emotional connection will grow naturally over time.

7. What to Do If You Feel Overwhelmed

It’s completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed, especially if this is your first child. The first day at home is a big transition, and there’s no manual for exactly how to do it. If you’re feeling anxious or uncertain:

• Reach Out for Support: Don’t hesitate to call your healthcare provider, a postpartum doula, or a trusted friend if you have questions or need guidance. You’re not expected to know everything right away.

• Give Yourself Grace: Parenting is a learning curve, and every family’s journey is different. Be patient with yourself and recognize that every parent has moments of uncertainty.

Final Thoughts

The first day at home with your baby is a mix of joy, excitement, and adjustment. While it can be a bit overwhelming, being prepared and having realistic expectations can make the experience more manageable. Focus on bonding with your baby, getting the rest you need, and asking for support when necessary. Over time, you’ll find your rhythm and build confidence as you navigate parenthood. Remember, you’re doing great — one day at a time.