A first time parent's guide to preparing for a new baby

Are you an expecting parent? Whether you're the person who gives birth or the other partner, it's one of the most exciting times in the world. You're about to welcome brand new life into your home, heart and soul.

It's also a nerve-wracking time, with plenty of anxiety. Your thoughts may be running and are probably composed of equal parts wonder, excitement and nervousness.

Lucky for you, we've put together this helpful article. We will share some hints and tips to help new parents prepare for their first baby. So, before you hit the baby shop Melbourne, read on.

This tip will probably save you some money, and that's a good thing as chances are you'll be on one income for six months or more.

Ask your friends, family and colleagues who have older children if they have any toys, clothes and other assorted baby items to spare. People tend to hold onto this stuff in case they know someone who is about to have a baby. You'd be surprised at what people keep stashed away.

You're going to need a pram, no doubts about it. There will be plenty of walks, trips out and shopping runs to do before your baby can walk.

There are plenty of prams on the market, both new and second hand. Determine your budget, then find a pram that sits within that budget that matches your needs and wants.

A good rule of thumb is to get a pram that folds up easily and is lightweight, which makes getting in and out of the car a breeze.

This is something to do in the few weeks before the due date. A newborn is very demanding of time and energy, and cooking from scratch will be pretty low down on your list of priorities.

So, spend a weekend doing some bulk cooking. Choose meals that freeze and defrost easily. Think curries, soups, pasta sauces, stir-fries and other meals that are easy to bulk cook.

You'll thank yourself when your newborn is crying, and all you have to do for dinner is pop a container in the microwave and press a button.

Another thing to do before the baby arrives is to prepare their nursery. Trust us, you won't have the energy to paint, decorate and lug furniture around with a newborn, so get this done before your bundle of joy decides to come into the world.

The final step is to have your child's cot ready to go when they come home.

A word of warning - never purchase a secondhand cot or crib. They can be fatally dangerous. Always buy new, and ensure that they meet your country's minimum standards for child safety.

Make sure that you have the right size sheets and never put pillows or soft toys in a newborns cot - the same applies to blankets. Get some swaddles and sleepsuits instead.

We've outlined some tips on how to prepare for a new baby in this useful article.

Ask friends and family for toys, clothes and other baby items. Buy a pram, and prepare bulk meals for the first few weeks of living with your newborn. Prepare the nursery while you have the energy and time, and have their brand new cot ready to go.

By now you're a new baby expert, and you can head into parenthood safe in the knowledge you are truly prepared.