How many of you have watched the movie “Baby’s Day Out”? Well, we gather that any young parent who has watched it would have ogled in awe at the sight of Baby Bink’s posh, extravagant nursery. Well, in real life, one need not build a nursery to impress such as that, but one can certainly have a nursery that is comfortable, pleasantly adorable and completely functional! As soon as your chosen space is painted, curtains are fitted and the fan and/or air conditioner is in place, it will be time to fill up the room with all the other baby stuff to make up your baby’s very own nursery. Here are some suggestions on what makes a perfectly functional nursery.
Table of Contents
1. Baby crib/cot
Your baby will need a place to sleep in which is safe and comfortable. You might find it a little overwhelming to pick out a baby crib out of so many to choose from out there. Whichever your choice is, be sure to check on the safety functions, the material it’s made of and all the features it offers to make sure that there are no false claims.
2. Bedding and sheets
You’ll need at least two sets of sheets. Try covering the mattress pad with a crib sheet, then layering that with another pad, topping off with a second crib sheet on top. That way when the first layer is wet through, you can just remove it and the crib is ready to go once again.
3. Changing table
Here we have an item much debated about on its necessity. Some might see a changing table as a complete waste of money as one can change the baby anywhere – on the floor, the bed, etc… . Some however, find that a changing table can be useful for it’s far more comfortable to handle a baby while standing up. Plus, it can be converted into a decorative table or shelf unit when you’re done using it as a changing table.
4. Diapering supplies
Stock up on your cloth or disposable diapers. Have at least a dozen out on the changing table, ready to be used. If you’re using disposable ones, resist the urge to get too many jumbo-sized packs, for your little bundle will outgrow them before you know it!
5. Nursing chair
Regardless if you’re breast feeding or bottle feeding, you will want to nurse your baby with as much ease as possible. A nursing chair can be a lovely thing to have in a nursery, but you may use any other chair, as long as it is comfy to sit on.
6. Baby Monitor
Baby monitors have given countless parents some peace of mind as they go about their household chores. Invest in a baby monitoring device with two receivers. Keep one in your bedroom and another in the kitchen, living room, or home office for the day, so you can keep track of your baby and hear his movements (or see him) anytime.
7. Baby closet or clothes cupboard
Ask any parent who has been through it and you will find that it’s astounding how a little child’s clothing can accumulate so quickly! A closet or cupboard will be a brilliant investment and if you choose your item well, it will serve its purpose for a long time to come.
8. Storage baskets or bins/containers
Like your baby’s clothes, you will find that baby’s toys and other knick knacks tend to accumulate as if they’re breeding! Storage units will help keep the room tidy and clutter-free.
9. Diaper pail with lid
Pick an ample sized one which will serve you well, for your baby will be going through diapers like there’s no tomorrow! A larger pail will mean that you will only need to empty it once a day.
10. Laundry basket
If you’re wondering why you will need one, think of the following: Spit-ups, vomit, pee and poop. Your baby’s clothes will hardly be free of any of the above, so you will need somewhere to collect all those dirty little items before taking them to be washed.
11. Shades or blinds
While plenty of natural sunlight will do both baby and you good, there will be times when you will appreciates the darkness, especially when your little one is trying to take a nap.
12. Baby mobiles
Hang these over baby’s crib to keep the little bundle suitably entertained for a while. Musical mobiles can be very useful too, especially if your baby tends to doze off at the sound of his favorite tunes!
13. Play-gym
This colorful and interesting play mat will provide much delight and entertainment for your baby while you take a much-needed breather! They generally come in an assortment of colors, designs and attachments to choose from. You simply cannot go wrong with one, whichever design you choose!
14. Baby burp cloths
The reason we list them here on their own is because you will need lots of them on standby to catch, wipe and mop up baby’s drool, spit-ups and vomit, anytime of the day or night.
15. Night light
A good investment if you wish to keep your toes from hitting the bottom parts of furniture in the dark. Can also be used later on if your growing child does not fancy being left in a pitch-dark room.
16. Bouncer/rocker
This is a really nice item to have to keep your baby nearby as you read or relax. The soothing movements of a bouncer or rocker may even help to calm a fussy baby.
17. Table or wall clock
Not that you would even want to know the time when you’re scurrying around all the time, but a clock can be essential so that you can keep track of feeding times, bath time, tummy time and so on.
18. Essential toiletries
Keep your baby’s toiletries such as nappy cream, lotion and massage oil in a convenient spot, ideally on or near the changing table so that they’re easily accessible.
19. Nursing gear
Breast pads, breast pump if you’re using one and nursing pillow. – Everything you need to use (including a nursing cover, in case you have guests!), should be placed at your disposal, near your nursing chair.
20. CD Player
If you fancy your baby dozing off to the sound of classical music, then let there be music in the nursery!
