The ultimate baby nursery checklist

There are so many things to do to before you welcome a new baby, and creating your baby's nursery is one of those exciting parts of preparing for parenthood. No matter the theme or wallpaper, there are a few nursery essentials that every parent should have for their newborn. This newborn nursery set-up checklist will help you figure out the necessary from the not-so-necessary. So, what do you really need for a nursery?

What are the must-have baby nursery items?

Safe sleep space

There are a few safe sleep options for your baby, with many families choosing either a bassinet or a cot. Bassinets are generally smaller than cots, making them a great option for keeping your newborn close during those early months while still providing a separate, safe sleep space. As your baby grows and starts showing signs of rolling or pushing up, it's time to transition them to a cot. According to Whānau Āwhina Plunket, babies should always sleep in their own safe sleep space with a firm, flat mattress and no pillows, toys or loose bedding. If you're choosing a cot, look for one that meets New Zealand's mandatory safety standard.

Firm cot mattress and fitted cot sheet

 A firm mattress with the right fitted sheet and a mattress protector will go a long way! Our top tip? Buy more than one set of sheets so you can easily re-make the bed should accidents happen.

Somewhere to change your baby

A changing table can be great to store all your nappies and changing items all in one convenient place – and save your back! Or, if you’re low on space, a change mat is a great alternative. Make sure whichever one you choose has a surface that is easily cleaned.

Nappies

Having a supply of nappies on hand can be extremely helpful, especially in those early weeks as your family adjusts to life with a newborn around. Start with 1-2 boxes of newborn nappies and a box or sleeve of the next size up - newborns grow so quickly that one day you'll notice the newborn size just doesn't do the job anymore! If you're planning to use cloth nappies, you'll first need to decide whether you're going to use cloth part time or full time. Many parents choose to use cloth part time in the newborn weeks as their little one's digestive system develops; babies often dirty their nappies several times a day in the first weeks.

Newborn and baby clothes

It can be easy to overdo it with clothes, because babies never stop growing. Bodysuits and onesies are great for keeping babies warm, especially during the night. Depending on when your baby is due to arrive, you might also need other seasonal essentials such as jumpers or beanies. Other clothing, like shirts, leggings, pants, etc, should be kept in small supply, as your little one may grow out of them quicker than you think.

Other items you might like for your baby nursery

These are the things that many people enjoy, but some find they don't necessarily need or may not end up using, depending on your baby, your parenting style, and your family's values.

Baby monitor

Some parents choose to use a baby monitor to allow them to keep an eye on their little one during naps. They can be reassuring for parents and are a handy way to let you know if your baby is waking from sleep or crying. It's important to remember that baby monitors are not a safety device, and babies should sleep in the same room as an adult caregiver for the first 6–12 months of their life.

Baby night light

It's no secret that parenting (especially with a newborn) is a 24/7 gig. A night light can save you the trouble of turning on harsh, overhead lights and disturbing your baby while you feed and change them overnight.

Baby room thermometer

Babies can become too hot or too cold because they are not yet able to regulate their body temperature effectively. Keeping your baby at a comfortable temperature while they sleep can help them stay safe and settled. Dress your baby in light layers suitable for the room temperature and check their chest or back to make sure they feel warm, but not hot or sweaty.
Babies lose heat through their face and head, so it's important to keep these areas uncovered while they're sleeping, or if they fall asleep in the car or pram.

Baby cloths and wraps

Cloths and wraps are often the underrated MVP of parenting - you'll take them with you everywhere, and use them for everything from milk overflows to wiping hands. And, of course, some parents even use the wraps to actually wrap their baby during the newborn weeks.  

Baby dresser with changing table

A baby dresser is very handy for the nursery, as the various drawers and compartments help to organise your baby’s essentials as well as clothes and other knick-knacks. If you’re looking to save space, a baby dresser can also act as a changing station when paired with a compatible changing pad. You can keep baby accessories tucked away safely, so you don’t need to worry about your child getting into lotions, powders or baby wipes.

Bin for soiled items

A hamper for your baby’s soiled clothes and a nappy bin can help keep your nursery space tidy. A laundry hamper specifically designed for baby clothes will help to ensure that your little one’s garments can be washed separately if you choose to do that, while a sturdy nappy bin can help keep nasty smells and odours at bay.

Mobiles

Mobiles can be great for baby play and sensory stimulation. They can be placed above a change table or in a play area to help stimulate your little one as their eyesight develops - just make sure the mobile is high enough so it can’t be reached by curious hands and fingers.

Baby sleep music and musical toys

Some parents use sounds or textures to help signal sleep time for their little one. You might want to try sleep music, white noise machines, or small toys for your little one to snuggle while they are settling down for sleep. Just remember to remove any toys from their sleep space once they are asleep, and ensure any sounds are at levels which are safe for sensitive and developing newborn ears.

Bookshelf

It’s never too early to start reading to your baby. Your newborn baby will love listening to the sound of your voice and listening to the words will help with their mental and social development. Having bookshelves allows you to start building their library early and keep the nursery tidy, and allows you to share your favourite childhood books with your little one. Just make sure any bookshelf or chest of drawers is fastened safely to the wall for when they start to crawl and walk and become a bit more adventurous!

Breastfeeding pillow and nursing chair

A nursery furniture checklist would be lacking if it didn’t mention a breastfeeding pillow or nursing chair. Nursing pillows make it easier to find a good and ergonomic position for you and your baby while having a chair, such as a glider chair,makes it more comfortable when feeding your baby at all hours of the day and night.

Nursery decor

Decorations and themed decor are elements of building your little one’s nursery that many parents look forward to. As a nice-to-have, nursery decorations help to make the space feel homely, inviting and perfect for a baby.