Bebeco has teamed up with leading UK expert, Sonya Murray of the Baby Gurus to bring you the first in a series of articles to help you prepare for the birth of your baby.
Preparing the nursery for your new arrival
Preparing your nursery is probably one of the most exciting activities when expecting a baby. There are many things to consider including budget, comfort and storage and to be baby and parent friendly to name but a few.
Here are our best ideas for your special nursery:
Budget
Let’s start with a budget. Work out exactly how much you are planning to spend on your nursery. This will help in the long run and you will be able to indulge in some areas without feeling too guilty!
Furniture and storage
You will need some basic furniture such as a moses basket and/or cot and storage such as a set of drawers or a wardrobe for your baby’s clothes. When choosing suitable storage, consider if it will provide enough space for the next few years. Think ahead to when you will be storing three year olds clothes in it – will they fit? Will the clothes hang or fold?
Keeping a box handy to put clothes in that are too small and another for clothes, which are too big, is helpful. That way only the clothes that fit your baby are in the wardrobe or drawers. Sorting clothes in this way will save time and make life easier on a day-to-day basis. It’s also worth considering where you will put the clothes when your baby has outgrown them. You can either store them for your next baby, give them to a neighbour, friend or a charity shop. There are also fantastic nearly new sales where you can earn some money for your second hand clothes, toys and equipment.
You may wish to have additional storage for toiletries for mum (breast pads, nipple cream etc) and for baby (bottom cream, massage oils etc). For nappy changing it is a good idea to have everything at hand so work out exactly what you need for each change and make sure that they are no more than a hands reach away. If you are using a nappy station, make sure it is at the correct height for you and that it has ample storage. If you are using a change mat ensure it is at a level that you can comfortably care for your baby. It is possible to change a baby very easily on the floor using a basic mat. Always ensure your baby is safe. If your change area is not on the floor, never leave your baby alone, not even for a second.
Sleeping
When buying a cot, one of the most important aspects is the mattress. A good quality mattress is well worth the cost. Buy organic if you can, as this will reduce the risk of any chemicals. The fit of the mattress is vital for safety and must fit the cot snugly with minimal space between the cot and the mattress. Never use a second hand mattress. New baby, new mattress!
Blankets and bedding are essential for the nursery. Look for bedding that is easy to wash and dry. Blankets with air holes are ideal for a new baby. Duvets and pillows should not be used until the baby is at least one year old and even then should be used cautiously.
Baby bags are ideal for a wriggly baby and can be a used as part of a cue for a good sleeping pattern. Ensure you use the correct tog, as there is a winter and a summer tog rating. The bag should be the correct size for your baby. If you are planning on purchasing baby bags then you will need fewer blankets. As a very basic guide, a baby should wear one more layer than you are wearing, however you should also take in to account the baby’s room temperature.
Lighting
Multiple light sources within a nursery can help meet the needs of both you and your baby.
A night light will provide enough light to attend to a baby during the night. A small lamp will provide a slightly brighter light which is ideal for the bedtime routine; undressing and dressing at bath time, nappy changing, book reading and settling. A main light with a lampshade will provide bright light, which is useful if you need to check your baby for rashes or if the nursery has poor daylight.
Helping your baby to sleep at night
Planning a nursery well may even help your baby to sleep Gentle bedtime music such as a soothing lullaby played each night at bedtime can help your baby know that its time to sleep. A simple tape or CD player is suitable for this. A nursery monitor will ensure that once your baby is settled for the night you can relax knowing that you will be able to any noises. It is worth investing in a nursery thermometer to check that the room is at the correct temperature. This can take practice and a thermometer can help you gain confidence.
Parent comfort
A chair or a bean bag is almost essential for a nursery. You need to be able to relax and enjoy time with your baby. This chair can later be used for book reading and playtime. Consider pillows or cushions for the chair to ensure your are going to be comfortable. A small table or access to a flat surface is a good idea for breastfeeding mothers who may find that they need to drink whilst feeding.
Having a baby is a very exciting time , which should be enjoyed. Your nursery will form part of your preparation for your baby and the finished room can be enjoyed for many years to come.
It is worth remembering that the safest place for a baby to sleep is next to your bed in a moses basket or cot. Ideally this should be for the first six months as research shows that this reduces the risk of cot death. For further advice on sleeping and prevention of cot death speak to your health visitor who is based at your local General Practitioners (GP). Written by Sonya Y Murray, 11 Feb 2007. The Baby Gurus Ltd for Bebeco.
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