As parents, we all want to provide the best for our children, especially when it comes to their nursery. A baby’s nursery is a special place where they will spend their first months and years of life, and it’s important that it’s both comfortable and functional.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the range of nursery furniture that’s typically needed, including cribs, dressers, changing tables, and more. We’ll also discuss the importance of safety and space considerations when choosing furniture for your baby’s room.
Whether you’re a first-time parent or looking to update your current nursery, this article will provide valuable information to help you create the perfect space for your little one.
Crib or bassinet
A crib or bassinet is the most important piece of furniture in a baby’s nursery. It should be made of sturdy, non-toxic materials and meet all safety standards. In the United States, cribs and bassinets should be certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) and meet the stringent safety standards set forth by ASTM.
The crib should have adjustable height settings to ensure the mattress is at the proper level as the baby grows, and the crib mattress should be firm to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
It’s also important to follow all manufacturer instructions and ensure that all hardware is securely fastened and tightened on a regular basis. Of course, you should always place your baby on their back when putting them in a crib or bassinet, and never place them on their stomach or side.
When it comes to design, there are a variety of styles to choose from, such as traditional, modern, or contemporary. Some bassinets and cribs are convertible, meaning that they can adapt to your growing child: some can convert from bassinet to mini crib, from mini crib to full size crib, from full size crib to toddler bed, and beyond. This versatility can help you save space and money in the long run.
Before you buy a crib or bassinet, be sure to check out reviews to find out which made it to the top of the baby gear rankings.
Dresser
A dresser provides storage for the baby’s clothes, blankets, and other essentials. It should have enough drawers to store all the baby’s clothing, and it should have smooth gliding drawers with safety stops to prevent accidents. Speaking of safety, dressers should always be tethered to the wall to prevent tipping, and they should be made of durable and non-toxic materials.
Safety certifications such as Greenguard GOLD and MADE SAFE help ensure that nursery furniture is made with non-toxic materials and has very low emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Hardwoods, such as oak, maple, and cherry, are great options for dressers. Avoid cheap pressed wood options, as these are more likely to contain formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals.
You should also consider the style of the dresser, as it should match the overall aesthetic of the nursery. There are a variety of styles to choose from, such as traditional, modern, or contemporary. Also, you may want to consider getting a dresser with a changing table on top, which will save space and provide a convenient place to change the baby’s diapers. Even if the dresser doesn’t come with an integrated changing table, you can always purchase a changing pad separately and place it on top of the dresser.
Glider or rocking chair
A nursery glider or rocking chair is a great addition to a baby’s nursery, providing a comfortable and convenient place for parents to sit and bond with their baby. Gliders and rocking chairs come in a variety of styles, materials, and colors, so it’s important to choose one that matches the overall aesthetic of the nursery.
When it comes to comfort, it is important to choose a glider or rocking chair that is made of durable and comfortable materials (including fabrics, padding, and other touch-points). The seat and backrest should be padded and have enough support for the parents. The armrests should also be comfortable to rest on and the chair should have a smooth gliding or rocking motion.
The chair should be at a comfortable height for the parents and should have enough room to comfortably hold the baby while they are being fed or soothed, and an ottoman is a great accessory. It’s also important to consider if the chair is easy to clean and maintain; removable and washable fabrics are a great bonus.
Changing table
A changing table is designed specifically for changing diapers and dressing the baby. It should have a safety strap to secure the baby and a changing pad that is easy to clean (or removable covers that are easy to wash). It should also have enough storage space (drawers, shelves, bins) for diapers, wipes, and other changing essentials.
The height of the changing table is also an important consideration. It should be at a comfortable height for the parents to use, ideally around waist or counter height. This will reduce strain on your back and shoulders while doing frequent diaper changes.
When it comes to design, there are a variety of styles to choose from, such as traditional, modern, or contemporary. Some changing tables also convert into a dresser when your child outgrows it, which can save space and money in the long run.
Accessories
No room is complete without a few accessories, and the nursery is no exception!
- Crib sheets and blankets – Soft, comfortable bedding to keep your baby warm and cozy. Always keep at least one extra for laundry time.
- Diaper caddy – A portable container for storing and organizing diapers, wipes, and other changing essentials.
- Diaper pail – A diaper disposal bin to house dirty diapers and prevent odors in the nursery.
- Nightlight – A soft light to provide a gentle glow in the room during nighttime feedings and diaper changes.
- Baby monitor – Allows parents to keep an ear and eye on the baby from another room (or even when out of the house!)..
- Sound machine – Creates soothing sounds or music to help lull your baby to sleep. Save some money by finding one integrated into a baby monitor.
- Wall art and decor – Items such as posters, paintings, and wall hangings decorate the nursery and create a visually pleasing space.
- Rug or playmat – A cozy and soft place for your baby to play on the floor.
- Curtains or shades – They can add color and warmth to the nursery and can also help block out light for naps and overnight sleep.
- Storage containers – A variety of containers such as baskets, bins, or shelves can be used to store and organize baby items.
- Humidifier – helps to keep the air in the nursery moist, which can be especially helpful during cold and flu season or if your baby has a stuffy nose.
- Laundry hamper – A convenient place to store dirty clothes and linens.
- Musical mobile – A hanging mobile with small toys or stuffed animals that can be rotated to keep your baby entertained.
There are so many different types of furniture that can be used in a nursery to create a comfortable and functional space for your baby. From the essential crib to multi-functional items such as a rocking chair or glider that can be used for nursing and soothing the baby to sleep.
Overall, the furniture you choose for your baby’s nursery should reflect your personal style and create a welcoming and safe environment for your little one.
