As a new mom you will get a lot of advice about how and when your baby should sleep. And the truth is, what is right really depends on your baby and what works best for your family.
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It can be a stressful process and there will be some trial and error until you figure out what works best. Here are some of the essential sleep items to help navigate those first few months with your newborn.
Bassinet
The CDC recommends that your baby sleep in the same room as you until at least 6 months. Bassinets provide a safe and close place for your baby to sleep, and are small enough to fit in most bedrooms, right near the bed.
Having your baby close in those first few months is also ideal because it can provide comfort for both baby and mom, and also make late night feedings easier.
Crib
Once your baby grows out of the bassinet, they will most likely switch to a crib, or floor bed. Most cribs are convertible so they can be transformed into a toddler bed as well.
There are various options in different price points and style preferences.
Crib Mattress
Crib mattresses come in a wide variety of materials, sizes and prices. It would be hard to tell me which mattress is best for you without knowing your lifestyle, budget and personal preferences. But I can work on a crib mattress guide in the future.
Crib Mattress Fitted Sheets (2-3)
Like the mattress, crib sheets come in a variety of materials. When choosing a crib sheet, the most important factor is the fit. A tight fit helps ensure no bunching. I recommend 2-3 sheets so that you can easily rotate them for middle of the night sheet changes.
Swaddles (2-3)
Swaddling refers to wrapping your baby tightly in a blanket to prevent their startle reflex from waking them. There are many types of swaddles to choose from, but once you find which type works, I do recommend grabbing at least two incase you have to change in the middle of the night.
Sleep sacks (4-8)
A sleepsack is a wearable blanket. This is often used after the baby transitions out of the swaddle to keep them warm without using a loose blanket in the crib. It goes over their pajamas like a swaddle, but allows the baby more mobility, while still keeping them warm.
Changing table/dresser
A changing table allows you to keep all your baby’s diaper essentials in one place for diaper changes. Some parents opt out of a changing table and instead use a changing pad on top of the dresser, and one of the dresser drawers to organize diaper essentials. Whatever option you choose, be sure ensure it has enough storage, and fits in the space comfortably.
Rocker/Glider
Rockers and gliders create a nice and comfortable space for you feed and put your baby to sleep. The best one for you depends on the motion you prefer, your size, the amount of space you have in your nursery, and decor preferences.
Monitor
Baby monitors are important if you plan to leave your little one alone in a separate part of the house. The best option for you depends on your needs and when and where you plan to use them.
Sound Machine
Sound machines can help calm infants by playing sounds that mimic the womb. They can also drown out noise while your little one is sleeping.
Black out curtains (optional)
If your baby sleeps better curtains, get the curtains. They are going to look super cute in the room anyway.
Related posts: 0-3 Month Baby Necessities for a Minimalist, 3-6 Month Baby Necessities For A Minimalist
This is not an exact or absolute list, but it will get you started. Of course you will probably want bedroom decor and toys as your baby gets older and spends time in their own space. Creating a cute and calming nursery for your baby is so fun! Be sure to register, borrow or shop second hand for items you might need.
I have linked the exact (or very similar alternative)to items used in my daughter’s nursery but most items we received as a gift, or purchased second hand.
Tag me in your photos on Instagram (@wifeychat), I would love to see!
You can start your Amazon registry here!
