So you’re expecting a baby – congratulations! Now comes the fun part of getting ready for their arrival. One of the most important tasks is to create a comfortable and safe nursery.
Growing your family is an exciting and rewarding journey, but it can be a little overwhelming too. After all, there’s so much to think about before your little one arrives. One of the most important things you’ll need is the nursery – and we’ve got the ultimate checklist for making sure it’s just right.
You’ll want to make sure your nursery is stocked with everything you need, and that it’s outfitted according to safety standards. Here are some essential items you should consider when preparing your nursery for your new bundle of joy.
A Crib or Bassinet
The most important item in the nursery is the bed. Consider safety when choosing a crib or bassinet, and look for ones that meet current safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Make sure there are no loose pieces, splinters, or peeling paint, and that the mattress fits snugly in the crib.
Changing Table
A changing table can be a convenient way to keep all of your baby’s diapering essentials at arm’s reach. Make sure it is sturdy and has guardrails on all sides so your baby can’t roll off. You should also avoid placing items on top of the table that can easily be pulled down.
Humidifier and Sound Machine
Adding a humidifier to the nursery can help keep the air moist, which may soothe your baby’s skin and make breathing easier. Cool mist humidifiers for bedroom quiet and sound machines can also be helpful for lulling your baby to sleep, as they provide soothing background noise. You may also want to invest in a sound machine or white noise machine to help them sleep better and block out external noises that could wake them up.
Storage Space
Babies come with a lot of stuff, so you’ll need plenty of storage space to keep it all organized. Choose baskets and bins that are safe for your little one to explore, and make sure they’re easy to reach when cleaning or changing diapers. You can find many storage options that are made specifically for nurseries, so be sure to shop around to find something suitable.
Safety Gates and Plug Covers
You’ll want to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of your baby in their nursery. Install safety gates at any doors leading out of the room, and be sure to cover any electrical outlets with plug covers. You should also keep any toys, furniture, or decorations that are not age-appropriate out of the nursery.
Bedding and Blankets
When choosing bedding for your baby’s crib, look for ones made from breathable materials like organic cotton. Make sure all blankets are lightweight and free of pillows, thick quilts, or stuffed animals. Additionally, you should dress your baby in sleepwear with no loose strings or buttons that can strangle them.
Rocking Chair
A comfortable rocking chair or glider is a great addition to the nursery. A rocking chair is the perfect spot to sit and bond with your new baby, and you can even use it for nursing or bottle feeding. Choose a chair that is comfortable and has armrests so you can rest your arms while holding your little one. It provides a cozy place for cuddling with your baby and can even double as an extra seat when they get older. Look for one with soft cushions and armrests that make feeding, reading stories, and rocking your little one to sleep easy.
Artwork and Decorations
You can also add a bit of personality to the nursery with meaningful artwork or decorations. Choose pieces that match your style, but be sure to avoid anything with sharp edges, small parts, or choking hazards. You can even make your own decorations to add a special touch.
Lighting
The right lighting is important for creating a soothing environment in the nursery. Consider investing in a nightlight to make nighttime feedings easier. Warm lighting can also be helpful for calming your little one before bedtime. You can also install dimmers or soft bulbs to create gentle lighting for bedtime stories and cuddles.
Conclusion
Preparing for a new baby can be overwhelming, but with the right items you can create the perfect nursery. Make sure you have all of the essential items like a crib or bassinet, changing table, humidifier and sound machine, storage space, safety gates and plug covers, bedding and blankets, rocking chair, artwork and decorations, and lighting. With these tips in mind you’ll be sure to create a safe and comfortable environment for your baby. Enjoy the special time with your new arrival!
