What Are Must-Haves in a Baby Nursery?

There are countless baby products on the market today that can make your nursery into a top-of-the-line miniature childcare facility. From diaper disposal machines to bears that make heartbeat sounds to soothe baby to sleep, you can find just about anything your baby could ever want or need if you look. But there are a few items that parents simply must have. These products are necessary for a good functioning nursery that is not only comfortable for your new baby, but also convenient for the parents.

The Crib

Perhaps the most important piece of furniture for a nursery is the baby's crib. There's no bedroom without a bed. This is the place where the baby will likely sleep for at least two years, so it's worth it to invest in the best one you can. Buy a crib that looks good in the room, but focus more on a crib that is structurally sound, sturdy, safe and easy to use. Buy a new mattress to go with it, and invest in a waterproof mattress cover if the mattress isn't already waterproof. Depending on where you live, it may take some time to order the crib you want, so remember to do this long before the baby is due so you can have it assembled and ready to use.

Changing Table and Supplies

A changing table is invaluable to the parent who is faced with the task of changing the diapers. This piece of furniture gives parents a convenient place to set the baby for easy access without reaching over the rails on the crib to get the job done, or having to put the baby on the floor. A changing table is a sturdy, safe place for the task. A changing pad to make the baby's experience more comfortable is a must for a changing station. Parents should also stock up on diapers, wipes, cotton swabs, rash ointment, baby powder and any other convenient supplies that can be best used at this convenient station.

Chair

When your baby cries out in the night you'll rush to its side for a midnight feeding or change, but you'll want the baby to get back to sleep as soon as possible so you can do the same. The best way to soothe a baby back into a slumber is to rock. Rocking chairs or glider chairs make this an easier feat. Simply sitting down with the baby and rocking it to sleep will be more comfortable than trying to hold the baby while standing up. Some babies take a long time to get back to sleep, and this necessity in the nursery can make the process much more relaxing for both of you.

Monitor

Your nursery may be some distance from where you sleep at night, but you want to make sure you can hear everything that is going on in the nursery. You need to be able to hear cries and any other disturbance in the baby's room. This is why it's a must to have a monitor. There are many different types of baby monitors, the most basic resembling two small radios---one to transmit constantly from the baby's room and the other to receive in your room. Some higher-end monitor sets actually have a video camera so you can see what's going on as well as hear it.