If you’re expecting a new baby, you may feel overwhelmed by a rush of feelings about all the changes in your life. Over 18,000 of the babies who were brought home in 2023 were the result of the surrogacy process. Therefore, whether you are pregnant or expecting a child via surrogacy, you’ll need to prepare your home and your heart for your pending arrival. Here are some guidelines to consider!
Prepare Yourself for Unexpected Costs
The average cost of the surrogacy process will be between $100,000 and $140,000. The costs vary widely because the price depends on several factors, including whether you work with a traditional or gestational surrogate. While you’re aware of these costs before you decide to start the surrogacy process, other costs come up when you have a new baby you might not expect. Because the unexpected can happen, it’s best to set aside savings for unknown circumstances.
Set Aside a Nursery Area
When your baby comes home, they will need a place to sleep and a place for their clothing and supplies. If you have an extra room for a nursery, these months before the baby arrives can be used to convert that area into a nursery. If you and the baby will share a room, making a dedicated space for a crib and a dresser is essential. After all, over $480 billion was projected to be spent during 2024 on home improvement projects.
Gather Needed Supplies
You’ll need more than a crib and dresser before the baby arrives. Clothing and linens will be a good start, and you’ll also need bottles, baby toys, wipes, and bibs. During the months while you’re waiting for the baby, think about whether you’d like to use disposable or cloth diapers. Be sure everything you buy or receive for the baby is washed or sterilized before the baby comes.
Baby-Proof the Home for Safety
Once your baby begins to crawl around your home, they are at risk of hazards that may be in your home. Push any heavy furniture or appliances against the wall to prevent them from falling on the baby. You’ll also need baby locks for kitchen cabinets and outlet protectors for electrical sockets. You can also purchase a baby gate to help prevent the child from entering an area where they shouldn’t be.
Designate Some Baby Stations
You’ll want to take your baby out of the nursery when you’re in the kitchen or living room, so clear some spaces in those rooms for a ‘baby care basket.’ Place a supply of diapers, wipes, powder, trash bags, and a change of clothing in those places. Once your baby is old enough to eat, you can place some healthy snacks in those stations. Prepare a fully stocked diaper bag for when you need to take the baby out of the home with you.
The surrogacy process may take between 12 and 13 months. This means you’ll have several months to wait for your blessed event. As you take each step toward preparing your home, keeping your baby in your mind may help the time pass quickly. Best wishes to you and your family as you prepare to bring your new baby home!
