If this is your first baby, your foray into the world of nursery furniture is bound to be full of excitement and joy and plenty of questions! How much and what kind of nursery furniture will greatly depend on where you plan to place your nursery in your home.
For the first few months many parents find it quite helpful to have the child sleep in their own room, unless the nursery will directly adjoin the master bedroom. If this is the case, you will need different nursery furniture. For example, a bassinet can be handy item to have during the first month or so. Or, you might want to consider investing in a cradle. Cradles are a great addition to your nursery furniture collection because they are perfect for newborns, have the added rocking motion and when you opt for quality nursery furniture a cradle can become a family heirloom that is passed down through the generations.
For the main nursery, there are a few items that you will need at a minimum. First, you will need some type of bedding and regardless of whether you opt for a bassinet or a cradle in the first few months you will eventually need a crib. Nursery furniture stores carry a wide variety of cribs in many different styles and finishes. If this is your first child, you may want to think about purchasing a finish that will work for either gender if you plan to have additional children later. Many popular nursery furniture styles convert to toddler beds and beyond to grow with your child.
Make sure you invest in a good quality crib mattress when you purchase your nursery furniture. Look for the kind of mattress that is sealed against wetness and wipes off easily. You'll be glad later on!
You will also need a changing table. Look for a style of nursery furniture changing table that is sturdy and comes with straps and latches for securing the baby. This can become an issue when they are a little older and enter the wriggling stage. Look for a sturdy railing that surrounds the top of the changing table.
Finally, you may want to consider purchasing a good quality chest of drawers as well as a glider or rocker when you are looking at nursery furniture. You may also want to take a look at matching tables and nightstands to hold the lovely little gifts your baby will most assuredly receive. Most nursery furniture stores carry styles that complement one another as a set or can be easily mixed and matched.