Preparing Your Home for Birth: A Step-by-Step Guide
Giving birth at home is a deeply personal, powerful experience. Whether it's your first or fourth birth, creating a comfortable, safe, and prepared space can help you feel grounded and supported during labor. If you're planning a home birth, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to do to get your space—and yourself—ready for the big day.
Step 1: Choose the Space
Think about where in your home you want to give birth. Many people choose their bedroom, living room, or bathroom—somewhere with enough space to move around, easy access to a bathroom, and a calm, private environment.
Ask yourself:
Where do I feel most safe and relaxed?
Is there enough room for my birth team, birth tub (if using), and supplies?
Can I dim the lights or control the lighting?
Where can I sleep and be comfortable for the first week or two postpartum?
Your midwife will do a home visit around 36 weeks to help evaluate the best space for your birth. During this visit, you’ll walk through your home together to assess lighting, space, access to water, and overall comfort. This helps ensure you feel confident and prepared ahead of time.
Step 2: Gather Supplies
Your midwife will likely provide you with a supply list or even a birth kit, but here’s a general list of things to have on hand:
For the Birth:
Chux pads (absorbent pads)
Towels (a mix of old and new)
Washcloths
A bowl for the placenta
A waterproof cover for your bed
Heating pad or hot water bottle
Trash bags for easy cleanup
Clean sheets and extra pillows
Snacks and drinks for you and your support team
Music playlist, candles, or essential oils if desired
If Using a Birth Tub:
Clean hose (drinking water safe)
Hose adapter for your faucet
Water thermometer
Net for catching debris
Large pot or pitcher for adding warm water
Water Birth Tub Recommendations:
1. Birth Pool in a Box
A popular choice for both professionals and families. Comes in standard and mini sizes, with eco-friendly materials and a disposable liner option. Great for comfort and easy setup.2. La Bassine Birth Pools
Known for their compact, soft-sided pools that retain heat well and are comfortable for active labor. Available in regular and professional versions.3. Earthside Birth Pools
Designed by a home birth midwife, these tubs are extra roomy, sturdy, and intentionally crafted with comfort and labor in mind. Earthside pools are free from phthalates and lead, and built with birthworker needs in mind—ideal for deep immersion and partner support.4. Amazon – Inflatable Birth Pools
You can often find affordable options like "Birth Pool in a Box" or La Bassine via Amazon, sometimes bundled with hoses and liners.5. Your Midwife or Doula's Lending Program
Ask your midwife or doula—many birth professionals offer loaner tubs or have preferred sources already compatible with their equipment.
Postpartum Supplies:
Mesh underwear and maternity pads
Herbal sitz bath or postpartum herbal tea
Peri bottle
Comfortable clothes and robes
Baby blankets, onesies, diapers, and wipes
Step 3: Prepare Your Bed
About two weeks before your due date, prep your bed with the “double layer” method:
Layer 1: Clean fitted sheet (your nice one)
Layer 2: Waterproof cover or plastic sheet
Layer 3: Fitted sheet you don’t mind getting stained
This makes for easy cleanup and allows you to quickly remove the top layer after birth and settle into clean bedding.
Step 4: Create a Calm, Supportive Environment
The emotional environment of your birth space matters just as much as the physical setup.
Try:
Hanging birth affirmations or artwork that inspires you
Using soft lighting (string lights, salt lamps, candles)
Keeping the room warm and cozy
Playing music or using white noise
Letting your birth team know how to support your energy and preferences
Step 5: Involve Your Support Team
Let your midwife, doula, partner, or loved ones know your birth vision. Talk through logistics like:
Who will fill the tub?
Who’s in charge of snacks or pet care?
Who will support older children or siblings?
Have emergency numbers posted somewhere visible, and keep your phone charged and within reach.
Step 6: Stock the Fridge and Freezer
Prepare meals ahead of time if possible. Having easy-to-reheat food available after birth will make those early postpartum days more manageable. Think hearty soups, lactation-friendly snacks, and hydrating drinks.
Step 7: Trust the Process
Your body knows how to birth. Your birth team is trained and ready. While no birth goes exactly according to plan, preparing your home and your heart will help you feel ready, supported, and empowered.
Looking for personalized support or a home birth midwife in your area? Reach out to us at Birth in Color Midwifery. We’d be honored to walk with you through your pregnancy, birth, and beyond.
