One of the most enjoyable experiences for expectant families is preparing the nursery for their new baby. All the decisions and choices, from the color of the walls to the style of cribs, can be overwhelming. But it can also be a fun time. Experienced parents have learned that newborn babies need just some basic items at first - a warm and safe place to sleep, food, clothing, and diapers. When you focus on these basics, you can enjoy making the choices to create your nursery.

When you prepare for your nursery, look for sturdy furnishings and equipment as you prepare your home for your new baby. Be sure that all products meet current safety standards. This is especially important if you are borrowing or buying items second-hand.

Safety is the most important issue when choosing your baby's new furniture, especially for the bed and bed linens. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offers recommendations for many of these items.

All baby cribs must meet federal safety standards. Slats should be spaced no more than 2 3/8 inches (60 mm) apart and intact. The mattress should fit snugly, and the mattress support should be securely attached to the head and footboards. The bed itself should have corner posts no higher than 1/16 inch (1.5 mm) and the head and footboards should have no cutouts. Drop-side mechanisms should securely hold sides in the raised position. All screws or bolts, which secure components of crib, should be present and tight. Don't place the crib near draperies or blinds where a child could become entangled and strangle on the cords. When your child reaches 35 inches in height, or can climb and/or fall over the sides, the crib should be replaced with a bed.


Soft bedding may be a major contributor to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). You should place your baby on his/her back on a firm, tight-fitting mattress in a crib that meets current safety standards. Don't put pillows, quilts, comforters, sheepskins, stuffed toys, and other soft products in the crib. And don't place your baby on a waterbed, sofa, soft mattress, pillow, or other soft surface to sleep.

Changing tables offer a convenient place to change your baby's diaper. The CPSC recommends not leaving a baby on the table unattended. Always use the straps to prevent your baby from falling. For safety reasons, be sure to look for a changing table with safety straps to prevent falls and drawers or shelves that are easily accessible without leaving your baby unattended.

For comfort, look for a chair with arms that are wide enough for you to hold your baby, especially when breastfeeding.

Many baby stores offer a gift registry service so that you can list the items you prefer for others to consider when buying a baby gift. Although there are many baby products now available, listed below are the essential items you will want to have ready for your new baby.

	three to four fitted crib sheets two waterproof crib pads two lightweight cotton crib-size blankets (no fringe) three to six receiving blankets four waterproof lap pads crib bumper pads that attach securely
	about 10 to 11 disposable diapers per day for the first few weeks, or 48 cloth diapers (plus three to five diaper covers or wraps) diaper stacker diaper pail at each changing area diaper wipes
	baby bathtub four to six baby washcloths two to four hooded towels mild bath soap no tears baby shampoo
	Choose simple clothing that is easy to get on and off, without long strings or ties that might be a choking hazard. Make sure sleepwear is flame retardant. You many want to buy mainly 6 to 9 month size clothing and a few newborn items. four to six receiving gowns two to three one-piece footed sleepers four to six undershirts two to three pairs of booties or socks one to two blanket sleepers (depending on the season) one to two dress up/special occasion outfits bonnet with brim bibs sweater
	pacifier baby brush and comb baby nail clippers or scissors baby acetaminophen drops (given as advised by your baby's physician) bulb syringe for clearing baby's nose humidifier rectal or digital thermometer crib mobile decorations for room a front baby carrier or backpack laundry hamper