Setting up the baby’s nursery is one of the first orders of business for new parents. Ideally, you’ll want to get a start on doing so early–the last thing you want is to have an unfinished room when the little bundle of joy does come home. You’ll also want to have all the things that your baby will need properly laid out.
Part of the experience of putting the nursery together is choosing the right furniture. However, it’s also the area where most first-time parents get stumped. Which pieces do you need, how do you choose which ones to buy? Consider the following factors–which will hopefully provide a few answers to your burning questions–before making any purchases:
Space
Furniture is likely going to take up the most space in the nursery, and it’s important to know exactly how much of it you’ll have before considering any nursery furniture sets. The amount of space you have in the nursery will also determine which pieces you can get, and which ones you’ll have to leave out of your shopping list.
Those who live in smaller apartments may need to get creative about their nursery furniture choices. You’ll want to make sure that you have all the essentials that your baby will need, but not fill the space so much that would make it hard to move around.
Here’s a list of the most basic pieces you need to have in a nursery:
– Crib, crib mattress, and sheets
– Dresser
– Changing table
– Diaper bin
– Glider or rocking chair
– Storage solutions such as shelves
Depending on the amount of space you have, you may want to leave out certain pieces or opt for multi-purpose furniture, such as a dresser that doubles as a changing table.
Safety
Safety is of utmost importance when choosing furniture for your baby. You’ll want all pieces to be sturdy and stable, of course, but it’s also a good idea to check if the piece is equipped with additional protective features.
Before buying the first attractive crib or bassinet you find, make sure that the piece adheres to the safety standards set by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commision (U.S. CSPC). It’s also a good idea to check if the piece is GREENGUARD Gold certified. This certification ensures that the product emits lower VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds, such as formaldehyde and other chemicals that could be harmful to your baby’s health.
Versatility
Furniture that can grow with your baby is always an important consideration for cost-conscious parents that don’t want to buy a new bed or cabinet for their child every few years or so. Children grow quickly, after all, and they will outgrow that crib before you know it.
One of the easiest ways to ensure that baby’s furniture will stay consistent throughout the years is to buy nursery furniture sets. Choose one that includes a convertible crib that can easily be turned into a toddler bed and/or a daybed–you’ll find this functionality in many of the options from Kids n Cribs. This way, you won’t have to worry about the pieces clashing as your child grows.
Ease of cleaning
Keeping the nursery clean is very important, not just for the baby but for you. Leaving messes around can be harmful to an infant, and can also cause health problems for you.
Choosing furniture that’s easy to keep clean and sanitize is essential to your family’s health. Instead of plastic or metal furniture, choose wood, a more durable material that doesn’t rust and can easily be wiped down.
