Hey mama, it’s Liesel, your fellow mama and Labor and Delivery (L&D) nurse, here to chat about something super exciting (and sometimes overwhelming!): preparing your bedroom for your newborn. Bringing a baby home is a huge transition, and getting your space ready can make those first few weeks (and months!) so much smoother. Trust me, a well-organized and functional setup in your bedroom is a total game-changer. So, let’s dive into some essential tips and tricks I’ve learned both professionally and personally!
Sleeping Arrangements
First things first, let’s talk sleeping arrangements. While a separate nursery is lovely, many mamas choose to keep baby close by, especially in the early days and weeks. This makes nighttime feedings and those frequent checks so much easier. Not only is it a convenience thing but it’s also a safety thing.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “Infants should sleep in the parents’ room, close to the parents’ bed but on a separate surface designed for infants, ideally for at least the first six months.” (source) Research shows that room sharing significantly reduces the risk of SIDS because it allows parents to easily monitor and respond to their newborn’s needs while also keeping them in a separate and safe sleep space.
If you’re room-sharing, a bassinet can be your best friend. Look for one that’s sturdy, has breathable mesh sides, and ideally, is height-adjustable so it can sit level with your bed. This makes those middle of the night reaches for baby much easier and much safer! Whatever sleep surface you do choose, be sure it’s flat and free from blankets, bumpers, and all soft objects.
Prioritize Safety
Following on the heels of keeping your newborn’s bed free from all soft objects, let’s discuss some other safety precautions when it comes to preparing your bedroom for a newborn.
I already mentioned that the AAP recommends room sharing for the first 6 months of your little one’s life to reduce the risk of SIDS. Again, your baby should sleep on a firm, flat surface, such as a bassinet mattress or a mini-crib mattress, that meets current safety standards.
Avoid using pillows, blankets, or soft bedding in the baby's sleep area. Use only fitted sheets designed for the bassinet or mini-crib mattress. Loose sheets can become dislodged and pose a suffocation hazard.
Swaddling your little one has numerous benefits for both baby and parents. The benefits include soothing baby and helping them settle for sleep easier, longer sleep stretches (for baby and parents), and even reduced risks of SIDS and suffocation, according to some research studies. The ergoPouch Cocoon Swaddle is designed to make safe sleep simple for new parents and is a great option for your baby no matter whether they prefer their arms-in, arms-out, or hands up.
Always place your baby on their back to sleep, even for naps. This is the single most important thing you can do to reduce the risk of SIDS. Be sure to put baby’s bassinet close to your bed, ideally within arm's reach, while also making sure it’s away from windows, drafts, and heat sources. Ensure it's not near any cords, blinds, or other potential hazards that your baby could reach as they grow.
These are just a few of the many ways you can ensure your baby’s safety when preparing your bedroom for a newborn.
Create a calming and comfortable environment
Consider a white noise machine to help drown out household sounds and create a soothing atmosphere. ergoPouch DriftAway White Noise Machine promotes deep, restorative sleep by masking disruptive noises in the sleep environment. I love this portable white noise machine, because it helps create that familiar, soothing environment for your baby, wherever you are.
It also comes with a built-in soft LED night light with 3 dimness levels - a game changer for those middle of the night feeds, diaper changes, pump sessions, and more. It provides just enough light without being harsh and overpowering - you won’t regret having one on hand!
Keep the room temperature comfortable – around 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal. And don’t forget about air quality! A humidifier can be helpful, especially in dry climates and seasons.
Remember to make the space comfortable for you too! This is your room after all. Add some personal touches that make you feel relaxed and happy. A comfy chair for feeding, a cozy blanket, and maybe a few of your favorite books can make a big difference. Having a designated “mom zone” can help you feel more at ease amidst the chaos of newborn life.
Organization is key
A well-organized nursery makes life so much easier. It’s no surprise that babies come with a lot of stuff. That stuff can quickly take over your space if you’re not prepared or organized. Designate specific areas for different items.
A changing station in your room (or close by) is a lifesaver. Keep it stocked with diapers, wipes, cream, and a few spare outfits. A small dresser or rolling cart works perfectly for this. Labelling bins and drawers is a great way to make life easier, especially in those sleep-deprived early days.
For those middle-of-the-night feedings, keep burp cloths, swaddles, a full water bottle for you, and maybe a small snack within easy reach. I know people talk about pregnancy hunger but man, my breastfeeding hunger and thirst was unlike anything I had ever experienced.
Wrapping up
Preparing your bedroom for a newborn is all about creating a functional, safe, and calming space for both you and your little one. Don't feel like you have to have everything perfect right away (or ever for that matter). Focus on creating a safe, functional, comfortable, and loving space where you and your baby can enjoy those precious first days, weeks, and months.
Congratulations on your little one and enjoy this exciting chapter. You are going to totally rock parenthood!