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Preparing a safe, comfortable, and functional room for your baby is an exciting process! In this guide, we explain everything you need to know when setting up a nursery, step by step.
When Should You Start?
Starting nursery preparation in the 6th-7th month of pregnancy is ideal. This way, you can research without rushing and complete everything before the fatigue of the final months.
Nursery Preparation Checklist
Nursery Essential Requirements
9/9 checks completed
- Safe crib and mattress(Critical)
- Diaper changing unit
- Wardrobe or chest of drawers
- Nursing/feeding chair
- Night light (dim lighting)
- Baby monitor/camera
- Room thermometer
- Outlet covers(Critical)
- Furniture anchoring straps(Critical)
Section 1: Choosing a Crib
The crib is the most critical piece of furniture in the room. Safety standards must be met.
Recommended Age Group
Bassinets are suitable for 0-6 months, while standard cribs can be used up to 3 years old.
Types of Baby Beds
| Type | Age Range | Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bassinet | 0-6 months | Small, portable | Short-term use |
| Standard Crib | 0-3 years | Long-term use | Takes up more space |
| Convertible Crib | 0-6+ years | Economical, long-lasting | Higher initial cost |
Tutti Bambini
Tutti Bambini Malmo Convertible Crib
Crib Safety Criteria
Baby Crib Safety Checklist
6/6 checks completed
- Slat spacing between 4.5-6.5 cm(Critical)
- Mattress surface is firm and flat(Critical)
- EN 716 or ASTM safety certification
- Corners and edges are rounded
- Unpainted or lead-free paint used
- Adjustable mattress height
Important Warning
Do not place pillows, quilts, plush toys, or bumpers in the crib. These pose a suffocation risk. Only use a tightly fitted sheet.
Section 2: Diaper Changing Area
Consider that you'll be changing diapers 8-12 times a day - it's very important for this area to be ergonomic!
Diaper Changing Options
Pros
- Changing table: Ergonomic height, storage space
- Dresser-top pad: Economical, multi-purpose
- Portable pad: Portable, flexible use
Cons
- Changing table: Takes up space, limited lifespan
- Dresser-top pad: May be lower
- Portable pad: No storage space
We put a changing pad on top of a dresser. When our child turned 3, we continued using the dresser as children's room furniture. Both economical and practical!
What You Need for a Changing Station
- Waterproof changing pad
- Diapers (newborn and size 1)
- Baby wipes (for sensitive skin)
- Diaper rash cream
- Spare clothes
- Trash can (with lid, odor-preventing)
Section 3: Nursing/Feeding Corner
A comfortable corner for night feedings is a lifesaver.
How to Create the Ideal Nursing Corner?
Choose a comfortable armchair or rocking chair - armrests are important
Place a small side table next to it (for water, snacks, phone)
Add a dim night light - so the baby doesn't wake up
Keep a blanket or shawl ready
Add a nursing pillow - provides arm and back support
Tutti Bambini
Tutti Bambini Oscar Rocking Chair
Section 4: Room Safety
When the baby starts crawling and walking, home safety becomes critical. Prepare early!
Nursery Safety Measures
9/9 checks completed
- All furniture anchored to the wall(Critical)
- Outlet covers installed(Critical)
- Cable organizers used
- Curtain cords at unreachable height(Critical)
- Window locks installed
- Corner protectors placed
- Cabinet and drawer locks installed
- Room temperature can be maintained at 64-72°F
- Smoke detector working(Critical)
Furniture Anchoring
Thousands of children are injured every year due to tipped furniture. Anchor all tall furniture (wardrobes, dressers, bookshelves) to the wall.
Section 5: Lighting
Proper lighting is important for both the baby's sleep pattern and your nighttime tasks.
Lighting Tips
| Need | Solution |
|---|---|
| Night feedings | Dim, warm-toned night light |
| Diaper changing | Adjustable desk lamp |
| General lighting | Dimmable ceiling light |
| Sleep environment | Blackout curtains + night light |
When choosing a night light, opt for red or orange-toned light. Blue light suppresses melatonin production and can disrupt the baby's sleep.
Section 6: Budget Planning
Nursery budgets often end up higher than expected. Here are approximate costs by category:
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crib + Mattress | $200-400 | $400-800 | $800+ |
| Dresser/Wardrobe | $150-300 | $300-600 | $600+ |
| Nursing Chair | $150-300 | $300-600 | $600+ |
| Diaper Changing | $75-150 | $150-300 | $300+ |
| Lighting | $40-75 | $75-150 | $150+ |
| Safety Products | $40-75 | $75-150 | $150+ |
| Total | $655-1,300 | $1,300-2,600 | $2,600+ |
Money-Saving Tips
- You can use second-hand furniture (with safety checks)
- Convertible furniture is more economical in the long run
- Start with basics and add over time
- Follow baby fairs and end-of-season sales
Section 7: Decoration Ideas
Safety first, then aesthetics!
Popular Nursery Themes
- Scandinavian Minimalist: White, natural wood, soft tones
- Safari/Forest: Green tones, animal motifs
- Sky/Space: Navy blue, stars, clouds
- Pastel Colors: Soft pink, blue, yellow combinations
- Bohemian: Macrame, natural textures, warm colors
For wall decoration, prefer vinyl stickers over frames. They're both safe and easily changeable as the baby grows.
Nursery Preparation Timeline
Week-by-Week Preparation Plan
Months 6-7: Research
Research furniture, set a budget, choose a color palette. Compare store and online prices.
Months 7-8: Furniture Order
Order main furniture (crib, dresser, chair). Consider delivery times - some furniture can take 4-6 weeks.
Month 8: Paint and Flooring
Paint the room or apply wallpaper. Choose VOC-free, baby-safe paints. Ventilate for at least 2 weeks.
Months 8-9: Furniture Assembly
Set up furniture and anchor to walls. Complete electrical and lighting arrangements.
Month 9: Decoration and Safety
Add decoration details. Apply and check all safety measures.
Final Check
Do all safety checks, test room temperature, try the baby monitor.
Conclusion
Setting up a nursery can be tiring, but with proper planning, it becomes an enjoyable experience. Remember:
- Safety is always the first priority
- Start early, don't rush
- Focus on essential needs
- Make flexible choices that can adapt as your baby grows
Ready for Nursery Shopping?
Discover nursery furniture, safety products, and decoration items on Amazon.
This guide was last updated on January 10, 2025.
