In honor of the little one joining our family in the next few months – because I can’t wait to be an Auntie again! – here is a nursery guide. This guide features tips on safety and how to create the ultimate nursery for your bundle of joy. And let’s be honest, if you are a new parent, you will be spending A LOT of time in this room, so why not make it comfortable for you too?
Nursery Safety Considerations:
- Choose a zero-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paint or wallpaper for the nursery. These compounds are nasty and can reek havoc on your baby’s ears, nose, and throat.
- Wall hangings over the crib are great! Just make sure to choose decor that is light and can be safely secured to the wall. Seems obvious right?
- Natural fabrics and fiber rugs are always the best options for nurseries because they emit less VOCs and toxins. If you have non-organic fabrics in the nursery, keep them to smaller items like a throw pillow. Allow for adequate off gassing too! You know when you purchase something new and it has that funky smell? That’s what off gassing is – make sure that smell is gone before you place your decor in the nursery. If you can place your item outside for a couple of hours, that would be ideal, especially in the cooler weather. Cold air = cleaner air.
- Humidifiers and air filters are always a plus in a nursery. They double as white noise which is great for making sure your baby isn’t being disturbed while they sleep. And it keeps the air clean, so win-win!
crib | dresser | floor lamp | table lamp | mobile | blackout curtain | night light | baby book | skwish toy |ottoman | wooden blocks |picture frames | crib blanket | wallpaper | black and white pillow | eucalyptus pillow | similar rocker | sheepskin rug | rug | white star object | moon bookend | basket | side table
Creating a cozy corner for your glider or rocker is important for you and your baby! You can do this by having a table next to your glider or rocker makes your life easier during those late night feedings or placing a rug underneath. As for the rocker, here is what I recommend keeping in mind while searching for the perfect one:
- Cushioned support. Your neck, your back, need I say more? Adding a supportive pillow wouldn’t hurt either.
- Lots of room for that booty! This will allow you to easily change positions while rocking your baby – more importantly so you can lay back and snuggle. And move without waking them.
- Coordinating ottoman. Having a sturdy ottoman is great for setting extra bottles, books, etc. on top of and for propping up your feet.
- Smooth gliding motion. I prefer gliders or rockers that are not the “semi-upholstered” kind because the ottomans that come with them easily knock over and if you rock on them long enough the wood mechanisms underneath start hitting each other. Go for the solid old fashioned rocker base or glide/swivel combo.
On this episode of Cribs, we are talking safety and functionality:
- Find a crib that can convert to toddler or full size beds for added long term value.
- Make sure that all finishes are non-toxic and free of lead.
- Cribs with stationary sides are important. Drop-side cribs are just problems waiting to happen.
- Adjustable mattress height – also adds long term value – it changes as your baby is able to sit up and stand.
- Slats must be no more than 2 3/8″ apart to prevent baby getting stuck. Or making a run for it when they are older during nap time.
- Mattress fit: mind the gap! If you can fit more than two fingers between the mattress and the sides of the crib, your mattress is too small.
Experienced Moms: share your own tips and tricks below!
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