Setting up a nursery is one of the most exciting — and sometimes overwhelming — parts of getting ready for a new baby. Think of it as a place where the sleep routine starts, where stories are read and where quiet moments occur before and after chaos. The big things, like the crib or monitor, get all the attention — but it’s the little, tender choices that make the room feel done.
This checklist isn’t a quest for perfection. It’s about doing the best to make a space work well — it’s comfortable, safe, and personal. Whether you’re setting up your nursery from scratch or just adding a few finishing touches, these 12 Nursery tems can help make the room feel complete.
1. Crib or Bassinet
A safe sleep space is “at the root of a nursery. No matter whether you choose a full-size crib or a portable, nest-like bassinet during those early months, make it one with modern safety credentials that take up the right amount of space. And cribs are a longer-term investment that usually lasts into toddlerhood, while bassinets are convenient for room-sharing and late-night feedings.
Seek out a straightforward, sturdy construction and steer clear of drop-side models or decorative cutouts. If you are using a hand-me-down, check for recalls and ensure it complies with current safety guidelines. Peace of mind starts here.
2. Safe Crib Mattress
A firm, breathable mattress is just as important as the crib itself. It should fit snugly within the frame—no gaps around the edges—and resist sagging or soft spots. Skip anything labeled “dual-use” unless you understand how the firmness levels are structured for infant versus toddler stages.
Opt for materials that are free from flame retardants, PVC, and other chemicals that off-gas. Organic or Greenguard Gold-certified options can offer added reassurance, especially if air quality is a concern. Ultimately, what matters most is solid support, not mere softness.
3. Swaddle Blankets & Sleep Sacks
Newborns crave the close comfort of swaddling. It calms the startle reflex and can ease them into longer stretches of sleep. Whether you choose a basic muslin swaddle or a zip-up style with wings, go for ones that are secure, breathable and idiotproof: easy to use, even if you’re doing the Looney Tunes shuffle at 3 a.m.
As your baby starts rolling, you’ll need to transition to sleep sacks. These wearable blankets keep them warm without the risks of loose bedding. Have a few in different weights so you’re ready for both summer naps and chilly nights.
4. Changing Table or Dresser with Changing Pad
You’ll change hundreds of diapers in the first few months alone—make it easier on your back and your sanity. Whether it’s a classic changing table or a sturdy dresser topped with a contoured pad, the goal is a stable surface with everything within arm’s reach.
Stock the area with diapers, wipes, diaper cream, and a spare onesie (or three). Safety straps can help, but always keep a hand on your baby. A washable pad cover and an extra or two will go a long way when the inevitable happens.
5. Nursery Name Signs
It’s the minor details that give a nursery its soul. A personalized name sign adds warmth and meaning to the space—something that’s uniquely yours. These pieces do more than decorate; they help mark this new chapter with intention and care.
Beautifully handcrafted nursery name signs can serve as a focal point above the crib, reading nook, or changing area. Pick a style that matches your color palette or theme, whether that’s rustic wood, soft pastels or something more modern. It’s the kind of simple touch your child can grow with and keep as a keepsake for years to come.
6. Storage Bins and Baskets
Babies come with stuff—tiny socks, burp cloths, board books, and mystery items you’ll find under the crib months later. Baby nursery essentials, such as storage bins and baskets, help keep the chaos in check without sacrificing style. Use them to group essentials: diapers here, swaddles there, toys in their corner.
Go for soft-sided bins for safety and accessibility, especially once your baby starts crawling. Canvas, felt, or woven textures add warmth to the room while maintaining a neat appearance. Labels aren’t essential, but they can make a midnight search for a pacifier go a lot smoother.
7. Glider or Rocking Chair
You might not think you need one—until you’re up at 4 a.m. bouncing a baby who won’t settle. A glider or rocker gives you a dedicated spot to feed, soothe, and breathe. Look for one with good back support, comfortable cushions, and armrests at the right height.
If space allows, add a small side table and a dimmable lamp. It turns a single chair into a quiet corner where you’ll spend some of your most memorable early moments.
8. Sound Machine or Nightlight
A sound machine can drown out background noise and encourage sounder, more restful sleep. White noise, soft rain or ocean waves often work best, however the best setting depends on your baby. Look for one with a simple interface and adjustable volume.
A gentle nightlight is also helpful in the middle of the night when you’re feeding or changing the baby’s diaper. Pick one with a soft, low-level glow so you’re not fully waking the room (or yourself). Some models combine sound and light features, saving space and simplifying your setup.
9. Baby Monitor
Even if the nursery is just across the hall, a reliable monitor gives you peace of mind. Whether you opt for an audio-only or a video model with motion and temperature tracking, choose one that offers clear sound, secure transmission, and a dependable range.
If you’re following safe sleep recommendations from pediatric experts, a monitor helps you stay aware without having to hover. It’s not a substitute for being present, but it’s a helpful backup when you need it.
10. Diaper Pail
Dirty diapers accumulate quickly. A good diaper pail traps odors holds multiple changes’ worth of waste and is easy to empty without fuss. Look for one with a hands-free lid and compatibility with standard bags, unless you’re fine with using brand-specific refills.
Select a design that complements your nursery’s style. You don’t want it to scream “diaper duty,” even if that’s precisely what it’s doing.
11. Clothes & Onesies Organizer
Baby clothes are adorable, but they multiply quickly and become chaotic even faster. With constant size changes, unexpected messes, and multiple outfit swaps a day, without a system, even the tiniest outfits become a daily frustration.
Drawer dividers, closet organizers, and labeled bins make it easier to sort onesies, socks, pajamas, and extras by size or type. Focus on visibility and ease of access—you won’t be thinking about aesthetics when you’re half-awake and reaching for a clean outfit at 2 a.m.
12. Bookshelf or Reading Nook
Even in the earliest weeks, it’s worth setting up a small spot for books. A low shelf or wall-mounted ledges keep stories within reach and make reading feel like part of everyday life from the start.
You don’t need much. A cozy pillow, soft lighting, and a few board books are all you need. Keep the space calm and welcoming — somewhere you’ll both keep coming back to, no matter how your bedtime routines change.
Conclusion
Assembling a nursery is not about checking off every design trend — it’s about making a space that feels prepared for your baby, real for you. From the basics, like a mattress you don’t sink into and blackout curtains, to the quirks that just make it yours, each piece has a part in how you’re going to live together in that space.
Something as simple as baby name signs can add meaning, turning blank walls into reflections of family and identity—small gestures that make the room feel whole from the start.
