With so much excitement surrounding the arrival of a new baby, it’s only normal to feel overwhelmed. There’s a lot to get done and organised in a short amount of time, and before you know it your baby will be here. One thing that can cause parents-to-be, especially first-time parents, a lot of worry and stress is how to properly set up the nursery. Yes, you want it to be a welcoming and soothing room space for your baby to spend time in, but there is also a long list of necessities.
To cut down on some of the stress you may be feeling as you get started on creating the perfect nursery, here’s a look at some of the key items you’ll need to have.
Where Will Your Baby Sleep?
Because the nursery will be used mainly for sleeping in the first few months, you need to figure out what you'll be using. A crib will be necessary, but some parents also like to invest in a bassinet that can be used in those first few weeks to months.
One of the best things about bassinets is that they are portable so they can be left in the nursery, or brought into your bedroom. The bassinet can be in the nursery during daytime naps, and then for nighttime, you can place it next to your bed. Proximity to parents can be a huge benefit.
If you purchase a bassinet to use, be sure to look at the weight and size limits. This will determine how long it can be used. After that, you'll need to transition your baby to a crib.
In terms of bedding, you’ll just need a fitted sheet for the mattress but because they can get soiled often, you’ll want a least a few of them. The proper mattress for a crib that is supportive and safe for your little one, ideally with a waterproof cover, is the final step to getting their crib ready.
A Fully Stocked Changing Station Should Be Prepped
As you are putting the nursery together, a full-stocked changing station needs to be high on the list of priorities. Newborns will go through many nappies in those first few weeks. Having everything you need within reach is imperative and will make sure you can change the nappy quickly, and without any messes.
Here are the items you’ll need when stocking the changing station:
- A waterproof changing table or mat
- Barrier cream
- Baby wipes (look for those that are good for sensitive skin)
- Clean nappies
- Diaper pail
- Laundry basket
- Hand sanitisier
As babies get a little older and become more mobile, parents often find that changing them on the ground with a changing mat or pad is safer.
How Much Clothing Is Necessary?
A common question parents-to-be often ask is how much clothing they should purchase. You don’t want to be washing soiled clothes daily simply because you don’t have many to spare. At the same time, babies grow so fast that you don’t want to waste money by over-buying.
The essentials for newborns and babies up to around the one-year mark are stretch suits (all-in-ones), bodysuits (short-sleeved and long-sleeved), cotton hats, cardigans, leggings or pants, socks, and swaddles. The items you'll need the most are bodysuits and sleepsuits since they will be used daily. Having 4-7 of each means you'll get through at least a few days if not a full week.
While there is nothing wrong with using a traditional lightweight blanket to swaddle your baby in at sleep time, a sleeping bag can be more convenient. Rather than wrapping your little one, they are zippered into the sleeping bag providing a sense of warmth and cosiness. Just be sure you purchase the right size so it fits properly and is safe for them to wear.
Adequate Storage to Ensure Everything Has a Place
Storage is always a consideration when designing any room in a house and your baby's nursery is no exception. You need to factor in clothing, linen (blankets and bedding), toys, books, and all the other items you accumulate with kids. If your nursery is rather small, look for space-saving solutions and get a little creative with storage.
Adaptive Lighting Is Often Overlooked
Finally, give some thought to the lighting in the nursery. This is a category that is often overlooked yet can make a huge difference in how well your baby sleeps. Having the option to switch between full, soft, and night lights will go a long way in creating an environment they feel restful in. Nightlights, lamps (safely out of baby’s reach), and overhead lights with a dimmer switch will give you full control.
Setting Up a Nursery Can Be an Enjoyable Experience
When you’ve got a plan and useful tips such as these, you’ll find that setting up a nursery can be an enjoyable experience as you prepare for your little one’s arrival.