With a new baby on the way, your nesting instinct may be on overdrive. But with so many must-haves and nice-to-haves, it can be hard to figure out what you truly need for your newborn.
A crib or bassinet is a necessity for infant sleep. A changing table makes diapering a breeze, while a dresser is perfect for storage. A humidifier helps babies breathe easier, while a night light is helpful to set the mood for bedtime.
Changing Table
A well-equipped changing table is one of the nursery essentials that can make diaper changes less stressful for babies and parents alike. Typically found atop a dresser or other form of storage, this specialized piece of furniture gives baby a comfortable and safe place to be dressed while parents can keep their hands free. Companies like Home Kartz offer a wide range of baby nursery essentials, providing parents with everything needed for a safe and comfortable environment.
It’s also easy to keep stocked with diapering supplies like a changing pad, disposable diapers in the right size, and gentle baby wipes. Other accessories such as a diaper pail and a changing caddy or basket with smaller compartments are great for keeping the area tidy and organized.
A burp cloth near the changing station is another must-have for wiping up spills, spit-ups, and messes that can occur during or after feedings or diaper changes. Also, a soft and absorbent facewasher is great for cleaning baby’s delicate skin or lips. In addition to these accessories, a bib is useful for covering up any stains from drooling or food accidents during nappy time.
A comfortable rocking chair or glider is a great way for parents to relax and bond with their newborn during the day and at night time while reading them a book or singing them to sleep. A calming light with a soothing glow can also help to create a relaxing environment and provide a soft, comforting backdrop for bedtime routines. Finally, a baby monitor is an essential part of any nursery and can be a lifesaver during those early, often unpredictable sleep periods.
Diaper Pail
If you’re setting up a nursery for your newborn, consider investing in a diaper pail (also known as a diaper disposal or diaper genie). They are designed to keep dirty diapers and smells contained so they don’t overpower the room. They can be a big help during diaper changes when you’re in a rush to get your baby back to sleep, especially if you use cloth diapers, which require washing before they are reused.
All the pails we tested did a good job of controlling odors when closed. What differed was how much odor was evident when opening the pail to put in a dirty diaper, which is something you’ll be doing frequently. We also looked for a design that made it easy to open and close.
Rocking Chair
Newborn essentials are the items needed to create a cozy sleep environment that will help baby fall asleep and stay asleep for restful periods. These include key furnishings, cozy baby linens and a medley of items that help lull newborns into dreamless slumber.
A comfortable rocking chair can provide a relaxing place to nurse or bottle feed your infant during the night and early mornings. Many new parents choose gliders, which also add a calming touch to the nursery decor, but it’s important to remember that baby can kick these chairs around – so look for sturdy construction and cushioned arms.
While it may seem a little odd to include a chair in your newborn checklist, research suggests that rocking babies promotes bonding and can aid in a quick recovery from birth or surgery. Some also claim that a rocking chair can encourage sleep when used in conjunction with a white noise machine or music.
Other nursery necessities can include a dresser for storage and decor that complements your nursery theme. Hanging frames of family photos can make the space feel personal and welcoming, and a few shelves can be filled with books and small toys like this handmade pig rattle, which makes soft shaking noises to stimulate your baby’s sensory development and is safe for playtime. You may also want to consider a humidifier, which can add moisture to the air, helping prevent dry sinuses and coughing, especially when babies get colds.
Laundry Basket
A good laundry basket is a must-have for the nursery. You’ll be bringing home a lot of baby clothes, blankets and towels, so you’ll want a place to keep them all organized in one place. Plus, you’ll probably have plenty of burp cloths that will need to be stored somewhere, so a basket or hanging organizer can make for a handy way to keep them all in one place.
While many parents focus on the aesthetics of their lovebug’s bedroom, they often overlook practical features that can help to ensure a more comfortable and safe environment. The right storage is essential, so that you can easily find and reach your little onesies, shoes and toys when needed.
You’ll also want a comfy spot to relax and feed your newborn during the night. Whether you plan to breastfeed or bottle-feed, a rocker or glider will provide an ideal place for snuggles. Having a dedicated breastfeeding spot that’s not your bed will also help to ensure you don’t accidentally doze off while nursing, which can be dangerous for your baby.
You’ll probably also get lots of gifts from friends and family when you are expecting your little one. A toy chest or bookshelf is a great addition to the nursery, providing a place to store all of these lovely presents so they don’t clutter up your new space. Some parents even opt for a floor-to-ceiling storage cabinet in their nursery to keep everything neat and tidy and within easy reach.
White Noise Machine
Newborns need a cozy, comfortable sleep environment that mimics the sounds they heard in the womb. Creating that environment requires nursery essentials such as a white noise machine and blackout curtains.
If you live in an area with high-traffic or noisy neighbors, a white noise machine can help mask distracting outside sounds and promote peaceful slumber for your baby. Many people find that the sound of white noise helps reduce anxiety and stress levels, too.
A calming sleep environment is key to your newborn’s health, as well as your own restfulness. A humidifier can also be considered a nursery essential, as it moistens the air and may relieve coughing or congestion associated with a cold or allergies. A house plant, like the Peace Lily or a Kalanchoe, is another way to keep the air in your baby’s bedroom fresh and clean.
During late night feedings or diaper changes, a soothing night light can be a lifesaver (and an eye-saver). Look for one that’s motion sensor-activated so you don’t accidentally jolt your sleeping baby.
A white noise machine can be a nursery essential for newborns, as the soothing frequencies it produces can mimic the sound of their mother’s heartbeat and the whooshing of blood in their womb. Look for a white noise machine that has adjustable volume and various sounds, including rushing waterfalls and other serene or nature-like sounds. Many white noise machines use digital technology to create the sound, while others utilize a mechanical process to produce white noise. Whatever method is used, the best white noise machines will have a low-to-medium cost and provide a variety of sounds to choose from.
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