Baby Essentials
Nursery Setup Checklist
Complete guide to setting up a functional and safe nursery.
Best to start: Second or third trimester
Overview
Setting up the nursery is an exciting part of pregnancy preparation. While Pinterest-perfect nurseries are lovely, functionality and safety are most important.
Focus on essentials first, then add decorative elements as desired. Remember: baby doesn't need a completed nursery on day one.
Sleep Area
- Crib, bassinet, or play yard
- Firm, flat crib mattress
- Waterproof mattress protector (2)
- Fitted crib sheets (4-6)
- Sleep sacks or wearable blankets
- White noise machine
- Room-darkening curtains or blinds
- Baby monitor
- Nightlight
Changing Station
- Changing table or dresser with changing pad on top
- Changing pad with safety strap
- Changing pad covers (3-4)
- Diapers (multiple sizes)
- Wipes and wipe dispenser
- Diaper cream
- Diaper pail with odor control
- Small trash can for non-diaper trash
- Hand sanitizer
Storage & Organization
- Dresser for baby clothes
- Closet organizers
- Storage bins or baskets
- Hamper for dirty clothes
- Bookshelf (can wait)
- Drawer dividers
- Labels for organization
Feeding Station
- Comfortable chair (rocking chair, glider, or armchair)
- Small side table
- Lamp or reading light
- Nursing pillow
- Water bottle
- Snack basket
- Burp cloths within reach
- Phone charger
- Clock to track feeding times
Safety Items
- Outlet covers
- Furniture anchors for tall furniture
- Cord shorteners for window blinds
- Door stop/holder
- Baby gate if stairs nearby
- Fire extinguisher
- Smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector
- First aid kit
Nice to Have
- Rug (make sure it's non-slip)
- Wall art and decorations
- Mobile (ensure it's securely attached)
- Curtains
- Bookshelf with books
- Toy storage
- Growth chart
- Picture frames
- Blackout curtains
💡 Helpful Tips
- ✓Safety first: anchor all tall furniture to walls
- ✓Keep crib clear: no bumpers, pillows, blankets, or toys
- ✓Place crib away from windows, cords, and curtains
- ✓Test white noise machine volume - shouldn't exceed 50 decibels
- ✓Keep changing supplies within arm's reach but out of baby's grasp
- ✓Make sure there's adequate lighting for nighttime changes
- ✓Consider room temperature - ideal is 68-72°F
- ✓You don't need a complete nursery before baby arrives
- ✓Many babies sleep in parents' room for first months
- ✓Focus on function over aesthetics
💾 Tip: Use your browser's print function (Ctrl/Cmd + P) to save or print this checklist for easy reference.
This checklist is a general guide. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.