Baby Equipment for the Nursery, Home and Travel
Accessories for Newborn Babies – Crib, Bassinet, Rocking Chair, Car
Oct 24, 2009
Once a couple learns they’re about to have a baby, they need to focus on what they need before they head out to the store, where they’ll be surrounded by more baby equipment than they ever dreamed existed. All newborn babies need a place to sleep, clothes, a source of food and comfort. They also need a car seat that meets government standards. Other items that make life easier and help the baby with developmental skills are nice, but those things can be bought later, after stocking the baby layette.
Baby Nursery
The baby nursery will need a crib, a changing table and a chest of drawers. Other items that are nice to have are a rocking chair, a bassinet and a toy box.
Safe Baby Crib
A safe crib is one of the most important considerations for new parents. Slats should be no more than 2-3/8 inches apart. All hardware should be free from rough or sharp edges. Latches and locks need to be secure and out of the baby’s reach. Mattress needs to fit snugly inside the crib. Make sure the crib has at least one stabilizing bar underneath. Crib railings should be well designed and sturdy. Mattresses should be flame retardant, according to federal guidelines. Constantly inspect the crib for problems.
Changing Table
The changing table should be a safe and secure place to change the baby. Changing tables should be at a comfortable height for the parents. Padding is more comfortable for a baby than a hard wood surface. It should have high sides to keep the baby from rolling off. It should be sturdy and not tip over easily. Shelves should be easily accessible.
Chest of Drawers
The best place to store baby clothes is a chest of drawers or small dresser. Workmanship should be good enough so it won’t fall apart. Install safety latches to keep the baby from pulling drawers open and risk having them fall. Keep anything dangerous off the top or out of the drawers.
Additional Equipment for the Baby Nursery
Bassinets may be used for a newborn, but they aren’t necessary. It should be sturdy. There should be no sharp edges. Hinges and clips may pinch tiny fingers.
Rocking chairs are nice for quiet moments with the baby. Armrests are nice to support the baby’s head. Once the baby starts crawling or walking, remove the chair to prevent tiny fingers or toes from getting smashed.
Baby Stroller
Strollers come in all shapes, sizes and styles. All strollers need to be safe and have secure seat belts and harnesses to keep the baby in place. Travel systems are large and include an infant car seat. Umbrella strollers are lightweight and convenient to open with one hand. Mid and lightweight strollers are more compact than the travel system stroller, but they offer more features than the umbrella stroller. Jogging strollers are designed with a larger front wheel and provide the baby with a comfortable ride while the parent jogs.
Infant Car Seat
Car seats are designed to protect the baby in the event of a sudden stop or car crash. Infant seats should be rear facing and placed in the back seat of a car. They need to meet the government standards. Secure them to the car according to the instructions.
Baby Gear Extras
Going to the store with a list of necessary items will help prevent frustration and confusion. If the budget allows, extra baby gear is nice, but the baby will do just fine without wall-to-wall equipment. As long as he is loved, safe, secure and fed, he'll be happy. Add extras to a "wish list" and purchase them as the budget allows. Or better yet, let grandparents, aunts and uncles exercise their generosity.
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