The 5 Pieces of Furniture That Every Baby’s Nursery Must Have
All mommys-to-be dream of setting up a picture perfect nursery for their new baby. But, what makes a perfect nursery? Well, the very first thing you will need to do is decide on the nursery furniture. Every baby’s nursery must have a crib, changing table, dresser, rocking chair, and a lamp.
The baby furniture market has come a long way since our grandmothers were born. There are now many more cribs to select from. Before you start shopping, set a budget and write down the measurements of the nursery. Price and the size of the crib are not the only decisions you will be making, so start early so you will have plenty of time to find that perfect crib. You may choose a traditional rectangular crib, or go with a unique round crib. You may also plan for the future by purchasing a crib that will convert into a toddler bed and, later, an adult bed. Just be sure you are buying from an authorized dealer of the brand so all warranties will be in tact. Also, the crib must meet or exceed all Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and government requirements. Most importantly, all materials should be finished with non-toxic paint and contain no formaldehyde.
With every new baby comes the added chore of dirty diapers. Several times a day you will need a place for you and baby to comfortably and efficiently complete this chore. A changing table designed specifically for this purpose is the answer. When you are shopping, ask if the changing pad comes with the table, or if it is priced separately. Take measurements of your space and decide what items you will be storing in the changing table. Many models have shelves or drawers, or a combination of both. When you are shopping, remember you will have one hand holding the baby. So, any drawers or doors that need to be opened must be accessible one-handed.
Unless you have built-in cabinets in your baby’s nursery, you will need a dresser. Many times, you can save money by purchasing the crib and dresser as a set. Selections include dressers with drawers, dressers with side-by-side shelving, or a combination of both. Try opening each drawer one handed, because most of the time you will be holding baby in one hand while you gather items with the other. Some models are very hard to open one-handed. Also, check all warranties and ask about safety features before you buy.
You will be spending many hours rocking and feeding your new baby. This makes a rocking chair in the nursery a must. Before you shop, decide what you will be most comfortable in for long periods of time and how much space it will take up in the nursery. Some mothers choose a traditional rocking chair with a comfortable cushion. Others like the option of a recliner to comfortably put up your feet and sleep with your precious new baby.
The lighting in your baby’s nursery is very important. When your little one wakes up at four in the morning, the last thing you or your baby want is a bright light. On the other hand, you need enough light to safely move around in the nursery for changing and feeding. A lamp will let off enough light for you, and still keep the room in semi-darkness for a sleepy baby. You have a choice between floor lamps, table lamps, and lamps with several light settings (these last ones require a special bulb that is a little more costly). Just be sure any lamp is safely out of reach once baby starts becoming more adventurous.
However you choose to design your baby’s nursery, nothing will take the place of you being there. It is exciting to shop for furniture and decorations to welcome a new baby into our family, but that is not the most important part of this new baby’s life. It’s not the furnishings that your child will recall with fond memories. It will be the loving, caring touch of you and your family that will make memories for a lifetime.
Happy Shopping