In the final weeks of pregnancy, you might feel a sudden burst of energy, an irresistible urge to clean, organise, and prepare your home for your baby. This is known as nesting – and it’s a completely normal part of getting ready for birth.
Whether you find yourself deep cleaning the kitchen cupboards or folding tiny baby clothes for the fifth time, nesting is your mind and body’s way of preparing for your little one’s arrival. But where does the instinct come from, and what does it mean?
What Is Nesting in Pregnancy?
Nesting is the strong, often sudden desire to tidy, clean, organise, and plan in the lead-up to birth. It usually happens in the third trimester, most often in the final few weeks before labour starts. While some people never experience nesting at all, others feel a powerful drive to get everything in order.
It might look like:
- Rearranging furniture in the nursery
- Washing and folding baby clothes multiple times
- Batch cooking meals for the freezer
- Creating lists, spreadsheets, or a birth plan
- Deep-cleaning areas of the house (especially ones no one ever sees!)
Nesting is a real psychological and behavioural response, and it’s perfectly natural.
When Does Nesting Start?
For most people, nesting kicks in during the late third trimester, often between weeks 36 and 40. Some experience it earlier, while others never get the urge at all. It varies from pregnancy to pregnancy.
You might notice a sudden rush of motivation and a surge in energy, despite feeling physically tired or uncomfortable.
Why Does Nesting Happen?
There isn’t one clear explanation, but experts believe nesting is a mix of hormonal, emotional, and biological instincts. In animal behaviour, nesting prepares a safe environment for birth. Humans are no different – the desire to create a clean, secure, and welcoming space for your baby is deeply rooted.
Hormones like oxytocin (the love and bonding hormone) may also play a role in the nesting instinct, helping you feel emotionally connected to the space where you’ll meet and care for your baby.
Is Nesting a Sign That Labour Is Near?
Nesting isn’t a clinical sign of labour, but for many people, it happens just days or hours before labour begins. That said, it’s not a reliable indicator. Some people experience a nesting surge weeks before their due date; others never experience it at all.
It can, however, be your body’s way of getting mentally and physically prepared for what’s ahead.
Healthy Ways to Nest
Nesting can be satisfying and even calming. But don’t overdo it – your energy is valuable, and your body is doing a lot already.
Here are some ways to channel nesting energy productively:
- Create a baby essentials checklist (nappies, vests, wipes, etc.)
- Pack your hospital bag by week 36
- Cook and freeze meals for those early postpartum weeks
- Set up the baby sleep space and ensure it follows safe sleep guidelines
- Do gentle organising rather than heavy lifting
- Prioritise rest and accept help when it’s offered
When Nesting Becomes Overwhelming
Sometimes the urge to get everything 'perfect' can spiral into stress or anxiety – especially if you feel unprepared or are worried about birth.
Try to:
- Let go of perfection – your baby won’t mind if the cupboards aren’t colour-coded
- Share tasks with your partner or support network
- Take breaks, drink water, and stay nourished
- Talk to your midwife if you feel anxious, restless or overwhelmed
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Start with small tasks and build up gradually
- Avoid heavy lifting – ask for help with anything strenuous
- Use a checklist to stay organised without feeling overwhelmed
- Pack your hospital bag early so it’s ready to go
- Rest is productive too - balance activity with self-care
Nesting is your body’s natural way of preparing for your baby’s arrival. Whether it’s washing baby grows, organising the nursery or writing a meal plan, this instinctive drive can help you feel calm, prepared, and empowered in the final weeks.
Just remember: it’s okay to do a little, or a lot, or nothing at all. The most important thing is that you feel supported, well-rested, and ready to welcome your baby in your own way.
