Preparing a room for a new baby is a task that requires time and thoughtful planning. Focus on comfort and safety. Remember that being comfortable applies not only to the baby, but also to the parents. Plan the room on paper first to make sure your ideas are feasible. Think about functionality, lighting, heating and cooling. Whether this is your first baby or not, you want the room to be special.
Step 1
Soundproof the baby's room, if you are living in a multi-person dwelling where sound travels easily. Soundproofing will keep the baby from disturbing others, as well as keep others from disturbing your baby's sleep.
Step 2
Consider the amount of natural light that enters the room, and compensate by adding enough artificial light to function in the evenings and at night. A nightlight is necessary to navigate the room while the baby is asleep, but the addition of an overhead light, perhaps on a dimmer switch, is a good idea as well.
Step 3
Have effective heating and cooling, which are two major concerns for your newborn. Avoid drafts from doors or windows. Remember that air circulation is important, as is ventilation from an exhaust fan to outside air, if possible.
Step 4
Choose a crib that is sturdy, functional and safe. The aesthetics of the crib matter as well, but only after the first three criteria have been satisfied. Fit the mattress tightly inside the crib, allowing no space in between it and the crib frame, where a baby could get a limb trapped.
Step 5
Use a bumper pad for the crib equipped with at least 6 snaps to fasten around the perimeter of the crib. Once it fits snugly in place, a bumper pad prevents entrapment by not leaving any openings for a baby to reach through or roll under.
Step 6
Build or buy a changing table with a raised edge. Position the changing table in a corner of the room, so that the two walls provide protection from rolling off the table. Choose a table with a cabinet below, with shelves to store fresh diapers, creams, towelettes and whatever else may be necessary.
Step 7
Use a properly sized baby tub, and fill it from a water source either in the room or nearby. A hose attachment on a sink can save steps, if you can safely position the baby tub near a sink. If possible, place the bathing area in a corner, to protect the baby on two sides. Bathing is a daily function that must be comfortable for the baby and the adult giving the bath. You'll want shelves underneath or beside the bathing area to store all the supplies you'll need.
Step 8
Consider washable area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpeting, since carpeting can stain frequently and trap food and dust particles.
Step 9
Include a comfortable chair or rocker in the room to provide a place for parents to hold a baby who needs to be comforted or rocked to sleep.
Step 10
Decorate with bright colors or pastels. Use patterns of your own design, or purchase wall decals. Make the room comfortable and relaxing. Music in the room provides another sensory tool that can soothe a newborn to sleep.
Things You'll Need
- Soundproofing material
- Nightlight
- Dimmer switch
- Exhaust fan
- Crib
- Bumper pad
- Changing table
- Baby bath
- Rocking chair
- Hose section
- Area rugs, paint and decals (optional)
