Preparing a Safe Nursery

From the beginning of your child’s life, products intended for their use and comfort must be selected with safety in mind.  We have included a checklist you can use or give to your family and friends to use when selecting basic supplies needed to care for your baby.  Items do not need to be new - just safe and clean.  Many new parents watch for garage sales, other special sales, or exchange items with family and friends.  We have included the safety guidelines offered by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Items to purchase:

Clothing

• Diapers, washable - three to four dozen
• Diapers, disposable - 12 per day
• Shirts (tie front or snap)
• Sleeper, kimonos, nightgowns
• Blanket sleepers for winter sleeping
• Pairs of booties or socks
• Sweaters (small)
• Caps (knitted for winter, brimmed for summer)
• Bunting or hooded jacket (winter)

Bedding

• Receiving blankets
• Flannel waterproof sheeting
• Fitted sheets

Bathing

• Hooded towels
• Wash cloths
• Mild soap
• Baby bathtub (optional)

Breastfeeding supplies

• Support/nursing bra
• Bra pads – disposable/washable
• Breast pump (refer to pages 38-41)

Formula Equipment/Supplies

• 4 and 8 oz bottles, nipples, and caps - 4
• Disposable bottle inserts (if using this type) - 1 box
• Formula - 1 week supply; then purchase as needed

Additional Equipment Needed

• Crib and a firm mattress
• Mattress
• Changing table
• Diaper pail with cover
• Diaper bag for supplies
• Infant carrier/car seat
• Soft carrier or backpack

Peer Review Status: Internally
Peer Review Date: 2004