For new parents, getting the nursery ready can be quite overwhelming. I remember when we were expecting our first baby, we took an extra room and began changing it into a nursery. I was looking around and going through my mind was “Where do we start?” “What colors should we choose?” It was a little overwhelming to say the least, especially if you don’t know whether you are having a boy or girl.
There are many resources available and with a little thought and effort, you can end up with a nursery that is cute, bright and fun or one that is more traditional. Talk to your husband or relatives, look through magazines or search the internet. There you can get ideas on what type of color scheme or theme that you want to go with.
If you have chosen the colors for the room, the first thing to get is the Crib. Cribs are one of the most basic items that you buy for the nursery. Make sure it is strong, sturdy, and meets all the safety requirements. This crib will have to last several years, especially if you will be adding to your family later on. There are many styles and finishes available and you will have to decide what will go best with the look you are going for. Taking a hand-me-down crib from a relative is very cost effective, but make sure it meets today’s safety standards. There are some features in the older styled cribs that you may want to consider whether you want to use that crib or not.
The next thing to choose are the baby bedding sets and the crib sheets. Usually included in a crib set is a crib throw, bumper pads, fitted sheet, and a crib skirt. Sometimes you may find additional pieces like a window valance and a diaper stacker.
You will want to buy some extra fitted crib sheets. You will be washing a lot! Make sure they are soft and comfortable, and will keep the baby warm. You should also purchase a few mattress pads. These are small square pieces of waterproof fabric that you can lay under the baby on top of the fitted sheet. Sometimes you will be able to get away with just washing the mattress pad. As your baby gets older, you will have to wash more.
The next thing you want to consider are the baby pillows. You can have 1 or 2 in the crib for decoration and when the infant is sleeping (on its side), you can use a pillow to prevent the baby from moving onto its back. If you don’t want or need a baby pillow, you can just roll up a receiving blanket and us that to support the baby.
Crib bumpers are a necessity, to keep the baby from hurting him (or her) self. Make sure it is padded and will not fall apart.
I would highly recommend that most everything is machine washable, so you don’t need to hand wash. Pillows usually have to be spot cleaned. Easy care is very important, so you will have more time to spend with your family.
Additional items to add are matching Window Valances, a Diaper Stacker, and a Crib Mobile.
Finally, all I have to say is have a lot of Fun with this! This is a very exciting time in your life and getting the baby’s nursery ready can be very enjoyable! I remember how excited I was and it’s something you will never forget!