What to Put in Baby’s Nursery

The first time I found out I was pregnant I quickly ran to the book store and bought books not only on what to expect, but on what to buy.

Walking into a baby store was overwhelming to say the least, so I reasoned that buying a book would be easier. The book was just as overwhelming, consisting of over 300 pages, covering a multitude of topics from diapers and wipes to crib sheets and toys to larger items like cribs, strollers and car seats. It was a lot to take in. But what really needs to be in baby’s nursery?

I bought a lot of the suggestions; of course, not using all of it or even half. With my second pregnancy, I made more conscious decisions about my purchases.

RELATED READING :: Project Nursery: Babying on a Budget

Here is a list (not an exhaustive one) of what we put in baby’s nursery:

1. Crib and regular dresser-In my opinion, a crib is a very personal choice, but a necessity for your little one. The first few weeks after our baby was born, we kept them in our bedroom in a bassinet to have easier access to them during those nighttime feedings. The crib we bought for baby’s nursery was a convertible one that lasted until each our children were 3 years old. We also purchased a regular dresser that would grow with them rather than purchasing a separate changing table. The cushioned changing pad was bolted to the back of the dresser and when we were done with diapers, it was easy to remove with the dresser still intact.
2. Rocking chair and foot rest-A MUST for any new mama or dad. There were many a days and nights that we spent rocking our babies to sleep, reading books to them and simply sitting and enjoying those newborn days and late nights. I spent a pretty penny on ours, but it also lasted 9 years, through 2 kiddos and 2 moves. What was also nice is the company allows you to order new cushions if you want a different color. With my first, I purchased light brown cushions and it was a dark brown chair. With my second, we painted it white and ordered grey cushions. It was a much cheaper option than buying a second rocking chair.
3. Wipe warmer-Again, a personal preference. I just felt it was nice to have something warm to wipe with than a cold one.
4. Clothes basket-You will need one. There are a lot of clothes changes happening during that first year. I purchased a canvas one with handles, making it easier to move from their room to the wash room.
5. Side table and lamp (night light)-This was a purchase I regretted not buying with my first. However, with my second, I realized what I was missing. It was a place to put bottles, diapers and burp clothes rather than putting on the floor whilst also holding a newborn. A lamp or night light was a must! I was not waking up that baby, therefore a dark room was necessary.
6. Monitor-While it kept me up at night, it is a necessary evil to keep a watchful eye on our little ones. There are so many monitor options including some old-schooled options that are just have just audio options to more advanced technology with two-way communication options and loads of other options.

I am sure there are many other items purchased for baby’s nursery, some necessary and some decorative. For us, we had pictures, curtains, a fancy light fixture for her room, bedroom rug, stuffed animals, basket for blankets and other items, baby board books and decorative pillows.

Just know mamas, it may be overwhelming, it may be a lot of figure out; but remember this: HAVE FUN! These moments are fleeting, so enjoy the process.

On March 5, 2022 AustinMoms.com is hosting our 7th annual Bloom for New & Expecting Parents event at Lake Hills Church. Join us for the BEST baby event in Austin!

Photo Credit :: Noelle Westcott Photography