Preparing for a new baby is exciting, and setting up a nursery is one of the most enjoyable parts of the journey. Here’s a helpful checklist to ensure you’ve got everything you need to create a comfortable, practical, and cozy space for your little one.
Download our ultimate nursery checklist now to have handy when you're shopping for essentials, from cribs, to diaper pails, to other key pieces of nursery furniture!
Crib
Start with the crib, the centerpiece of any nursery. Go for one that’s safe and sturdy; many parents love convertible cribs that can grow with their child, turning into a toddler bed and then even a daybed. This way, it becomes a long-term investment. Pair it with a firm, well-fitted mattress—this is a must for safety—and grab a couple of fitted crib sheets and a waterproof mattress protector to make cleaning up easy. A swaddle blanket or sleep sack is the only other thing you’ll need to help your baby sleep; decorative crib bumpers, stuffed toys, and pillows are a major safety no-no, however.
Read more: What is a Convertible Baby Crib? | Ultimate Guide to 3-in-1 Cribs
Diaper Changing Station
Next, think about diaper changes. You’ll be doing this a lot, so set yourself up with something comfortable and practical. Some parents choose a dedicated changing table, while others opt for a dresser with a removable changing topper. Either way, it’s great to have storage space right there for all the diapering essentials—diapers, wipes, creams, and extra clothes. Having these within arms’ reach makes those middle-of-the-night changes a little easier.
A Diaper Pail
A diaper pail is a must-have for any nursery, offering convenience and odor control that every parent will appreciate. Unlike regular trash cans, diaper pails are designed to seal in odors, keeping your nursery fresh and clean. With their easy-to-use design and ability to handle countless diaper changes, they simplify cleanup and make late-night changes less stressful. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference in maintaining a comfortable and organized space for you and your baby.
A Comfortable Chair or Rocker
A comfortable chair is essential for feeding, snuggling, and just spending quiet moments together. Rocking chairs or gliders are especially nice because the gentle motion can soothe both you and your baby. Look for one with good back and arm support, and consider adding a small side table next to it. This gives you a place to set down bottles, burp cloths, or even your phone or a book. The Child Craft Cozy Glider is a favorite among parents, and was just voted one of the best nursery rockers of 2024!
Storage Solutions
You’ll also want some storage solutions to keep the nursery organized. A dresser is key, and if it has multiple drawers, you can separate items by type (like onesies, pajamas, and socks). Baskets and bins are super helpful for toys, blankets, and extra diapers. And small hangers can help you organize all those tiny clothes in a closet. Keeping things sorted by size or type makes it easy to grab what you need without rummaging around.
Safety First
Safety is the last big thing to think about. Install a baby monitor for peace of mind, secure any furniture that could tip over, and keep any small items or loose cords out of reach. At Child Craft, we pride ourselves on being a leader in safety for children’s furniture. All products are tested to meet or exceed ASTM and CPSC standards to ensure you have a product you can trust.
Read more: A Guide to the STURDY Act
With these essentials in place, your nursery will be ready for the exciting journey ahead! Enjoy creating this special space, you’re making a room where so many wonderful memories will begin. Be sure to download our PDF checklist so you can have our checklist wherever you go!
Shop your nursery furniture essentials today at Child Craft!