Whether you’re adopting, embarking on single parenthood, or you and your partner are expecting, setting up a nursery for your newborn is one of the most exciting tasks new parents get to take on.
From registering for the perfect bassinet and infant seat to comparing paint swatches and themes, there’s a reason that new moms are known for nesting—beyond the natural inclination, this is one aspect of soon-to-be parenthood that you have some control over.
So, whether you’re searching for the most durable crib or the swing with the most calming motion, it’s well within your power to put together the perfect nursery.
Start with your design.
The ideal nursery will most often begin with an image. For example, you might love the idea of a Noah’s Ark theme, with a giant stuffed giraffe smiling from one corner. Maybe you love nautical imagery and plan to decorate in blues, whites, and boats.
It might even be as simple as falling in love with a particular shade of Dunn Edwards eco-friendly paint, knowing that their non-toxic alternative is EG-free, VOC-free, and generally healthier for you and your baby. Then, you can coordinate the furniture, furnishings, and other details to craft a nursery worthy of Pinterest from that starting point.
Make a List
Like any major project, the process of setting up your nursery will be easier and more efficient if you create a list before diving in. You’ll find countless checklists with a simple internet search and create your own customized version, too, noting everything you need to buy, do, or delegate.
If you have your heart set on a 4 moms swing, add it to your list before mommy brain kicks in and makes you forget all about it. The same is true of any item for your registry or shopping list—be sure to prepare ahead of time to have your nursery perfectly put together before your due date arrives.
Pay attention to reviews.
Whenever you’re making a purchase, it’s a good idea to read customer reviews. By doing so, you can see honest reviews from, in this case, other parents. If there’s an issue with the product, you can rest assured that reviewers will report it. And, if there are particularly wonderful features they love, then you’ll hear that, too.
When you see that other parents love and recommend a 4moms mamaroo, you can guess that you and your baby’s favorite soon, too. Whether you’re purchasing a crib and mobile or a changing table and brand of diapers, expert reviews and those from customers will work together to help you make the best choice.
Go your own way.
Reading customer or expert reviews can give you valuable insight into a particular product, but that doesn’t mean you should follow all advice to a tee. Your mom might have been a perfect parent, but that doesn’t mean she should guide every decision you make with your child. After all, contemporary parenting has all sorts of unique products and resources—Mom didn’t have a 4moms Bluetooth bassinet or websites full of fellow moms ready to share their stories.
Of course, you can listen politely and let your mom know you respect her and are grateful for her suggestions—but you’re the parent in this case and are solely responsible for your child’s wellbeing. If you want a particular piece of furniture but Mom swears by another, make sure you’re making the best decision for your baby from your standpoint.
From the relaxing sway of a baby swing to finding paint with optimal emissions reduction, the choices you make in setting up your newborn’s nursery will have a direct influence on your baby’s health and wellbeing in their earliest years. By creating careful plans and utilizing customer and expert reviews, you can give your baby the best possible start in life.