Don’t Waste Your Money: The Only Baby Nursery Items You Really Need

As an expectant parent, getting caught up in the excitement of preparing for your baby’s arrival is easy. Between the cute onesies, soft blankets, and adorable decors, it’s tempting to go overboard and purchase every baby nursery item in sight. Not only can this quickly become overwhelming, but it can also be a waste of money. Thus, before buying everything in sight, here are the only baby nursery items you need.

A durable baby carrier.

A baby carrier is a must-have for new parents. It can help soothe a fussy baby and allow you to get things done around the house or while out and about. 

A good carrier can help you keep your baby close while you go about your day, whether you’re running errands, doing chores around the house, or simply going for a walk. It’s a great way to bond with your baby while keeping your hands free and can be especially helpful if you have older children to look after as well. 

When shopping for a carrier, look for one that’s comfortable for both you and your baby, and consider the different carrying positions available to find the one that works for you. Be sure to choose a carrier that properly supports a baby’s developing spine and neck.

Nursing or feeding supplies.

For breastfeeding, it’s necessary to prepare nursing or feeding supplies in the baby nursery. Look for a comfortable nursing pillow, nursing bras, breast pads, and a breast pump if you plan on pumping milk. 

If you plan on bottle feeding, make sure to have bottles, nipples, and a bottle brush for cleaning. Look for bottles that are easy to clean and assemble, and consider investing in a bottle warmer to make things even easier.

Cot or bassinet for sleeping.

Your baby needs a safe and comfortable place to sleep, and a cot or bassinet is the perfect solution. While it may be tempting to splurge on a fancy designer cot, the truth is that a simple, safe, and affordable option will do just fine. 

Look for a cot or bassinet that meets safety standards, has a firm mattress, and fits snugly against the wall. 

Changing table or pad.

A changing table or pad is essential for any baby’s nursery. In contrast, it may seem like a simple piece of furniture, but a dedicated area for nappy changes can make a big difference in keeping your baby safe and comfortable. 

Changing tables typically come with storage space for nappies, wipes, and other essentials, which can help keep everything you need within reach. However, if you’re short on space or prefer a more portable option, a changing pad that can be placed on top of a dresser or other flat surface can work just as well. 

Clothing for newborns.

When preparing for a new baby, clothing is an essential item you can’t skip. But don’t go overboard and buy too many outfits for your newborn, as they will quickly outgrow them. Instead, focus on practical pieces to keep your baby comfortable and cosy. 

Look for onesies, sleepers, and footed pyjamas in soft, breathable fabrics that are easy to put on, take off, and wash.

Swaddling blankets for comfort.

Swaddling blankets are a must-have for new parents who want to provide their little ones with the comfort and security they need to sleep soundly. These blankets are designed to wrap around a baby’s body, mimicking the snug feeling of the womb. They can also prevent babies from startling themselves awake with sudden movements. 

Bouncer or swing for soothing.

Swaddling blankets come in different materials, but it’s best to choose a breathable fabric like cotton muslin that won’t cause overheating. They are also available in different sizes to accommodate babies of different ages and weights. With proper use, they can help parents establish healthy sleeping habits for their babies, leading to better sleep for the entire family.

These items provide a gentle rocking motion that mimics the movement of being in the womb, which can help calm a fussy baby. A bouncer is typically a smaller, more portable option that can be used on the floor or placed on a table, while a swing is larger and typically sits on the floor. 

Both options come with a variety of features, such as different speeds and settings, built-in music or nature sounds, and even mobiles to entertain your baby. 

Nappies and wipes.

While not technically an item for your baby’s nursery, nappies and wipes are essential for any new parent. You’ll go through many of these in the first few months of your baby’s baby’s life, so it’s essential to stock up before your baby arrives.

There are two main types of nappies: disposable and cloth. Disposable nappies are convenient and easy to use, while cloth nappies are more eco-friendly and can save money in the long run. Whichever type you choose, be sure to have plenty on hand.

Wipes are another essential item for any new parent. They’re great for cleaning up messes, wiping down your baby’s face and hands, and cleaning up after nappy changes. Be sure to choose gentle wipes that are free from harsh chemicals.

Final Thoughts

When preparing for your baby’s arrival, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and end up with many unnecessary items. However, by focusing on the essentials, you can save money and make sure you have everything you need to keep your little one safe, comfortable, and happy. 

Before adding items to your registry or shopping cart, take a moment to consider if it’s really something you need or if it’s just a nice-to-have item that you can live without. Keeping it simple and practical allows you to create a cozy and functional nursery for your baby without breaking the bank.