One of the most exciting parts about preparing for a baby’s arrival is daydreaming about how you want to decorate the nursery. What color should I paint the walls? What theme should I use for the decor? But before getting caught up in the aesthetics, don’t forget to double-check that you’ve got the basics. With the world at your fingertips, shopping for nursery essentials can be overwhelming. The options are endless! That’s why Mega Babies has created this useful guide to what you need in a nursery.
13 Must-Have Nursery Essentials
1. Crib or Bassinet
When it comes to newborn nursery essentials, the crib tops all checklists. Babies sleep at least 16 hours a day in the early days and weeks! Your baby will need a safe, sturdy crib for all that snoozing. Check out this gorgeous two toned crib with rustic finishes and an upholstered wooden panel. Some parents prefer using bassinets in the first few weeks. Bassinets are small and portable; they take up less room than cribs and can be moved easily from room to room.
2. Mattress
One of the most important newborn baby room essentials is a firm mattress that fits the crib you’ve bought perfectly. This is the safest surface for sleep.
3. Bedding
Crib bedding for newborns is simple. In prep for potential spit-up and diaper leaks, it’s good to have at least 3 crib sheets and one waterproof mattress cover.
4. Dresser/Changing Pad
A nursery dresser is high-up on the nursery bedroom must-haves. A dresser with a changing pad gives you a place to change your baby's diapers, organize diapering essentials and store clothes. A good nursery dresser can literally make your life as a new Mom or Dad so much easier. You get to have everything within arms-reach when you are changing your baby's diaper or getting your baby ready for the bath.
5. Rocking Chair/Glider
A rocking chair or glider in the newborn nursery is the perfect spot for bottle and breastfeeding, a bedtime story or lullaby, and a last cuddle before sleep. It may help make nighttime feedings less disruptive for your baby, and the rocking motion may help soothe you and your newborn. If you’re looking for a rocker that will add a modern, elegant pop to the baby’s room, check out this velvet and hardwood rocker.
6. Blackout Curtains
Even a small sliver of light can disturb your little one from a nap or wake them up early in the morning. Blocking out daylight can be a lifesaver (or sleep-saver!) for you and your baby. Using blackout curtains is the best way to do this.
7. Hamper
No baby’s room is complete without a hamper. When changing your baby’s outfit on the changing table, you’ll want to be able to drop the dirty clothes straight into a hamper. You’ll want a hamper that doesn’t take up much floor-space (think tall and skinny) and can be easily transported to the washing machine.
8. Humidifier
A humidifier is the best way to keep your baby breathing easy in cool, dry weather. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends having a humidifier in your baby's room. Because it's unsafe for babies to take cough and cold medicines, a humidifier is a safe way to help relieve a cough or cold. The moisture that the humidifier releases in the air helps thin out baby's congestion and reduce coughing.
9. Nightlight
To set the mood and help your baby associate dimmer lighting with bedtime, a nightlight is a must-have for the newborn nursery. You’ll also find the nightlight helpful when you sleepwalk into the nursery for those late-night feedings!
10. Mobile
A colorful mobile will help entertain your little one in their crib! A mobile with a variety of shapes and bright colors (especially red, as it’s the first color babies see) is a fun option and can help your baby’s motor skills to develop.
11. Baby Swing
The baby swing provides a safe, comfortable environment for your baby when they are awake and supervised. It allows you to take a much-needed break from rocking and bouncing your little one during the day and can also serve as a tool to help soothe a fussy baby. Its motion is akin to the womb's rocking motion, often having a magically calming effect on babies! Baby swings can be used straight from birth till around 6-9 months old. This compact baby swing has a sleek, modern design and is 1/3 the size of a traditional swing so it looks and fits great in any home.
12. Diaper Pail
A diaper pail is basically a garbage can that's specifically designed to store dirty diapers. A good diaper pail will effectively seal in the not-so-fresh odor and reduce the number of times you need to take out the diaper garbage. This is a great investment for new parents!
13. Monitor
Unless you are sleeping right next door and feel confident you’ll be awakened by your baby’s cries, consider buying a baby monitor. The monitor will alert you when it’s time to go into the nursery for whatever your baby needs.
Planning the Baby’s Room Before Arrival
No need getting overwhelmed by the tons of items out there on the baby market. Relax! Babies are simple, so keep their nursery simple with this list of nursery essentials. Browse Mega Babies full nursery collection for all your nursery furniture must-haves.
