Your nursery checklist

Crib or moses basket – your newborn might look lost in a big cot and a moses basket is easy to move around
Cot or cot bed – choose one with variable sides and mattress heights so it grows with your baby.
Mattress – NHS safety advice says you should make sure it fits firmly in the cot with no gaps
Fitted cot sheets – at least three sheets is best
Blankets – keep your little one snuggly
Sleepsuits – choose plain white or go for bright colours and patterns
Baby sleeping bags or swaddling blankets – some parents prefer them as the baby can’t kick it off and get cold in the night
Waterproof mattress cover – an easy way to keep the mattress clean and avoid dust mites
Room thermometer – your baby’s nursery should be between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius
Blackout blinds or curtains – a great way to get your baby used to the idea of sleeping when it’s dark. You can also buy travel blinds
Nightlight – a newborn won’t be afraid of the dark but you can check on her easily with a dim light
Baby monitor – hear your baby from the other side of the house

Changing mat – makes it much easier to change all those dirty nappies!
Changing bag – ideal for keeping all your changing gear in one place when you’re out and about
Nappy disposal bin – keeps smells at bay
A changing table or unit – choose one with raised sides to stop your baby rolling off
Antibacterial hand gel – so you don’t have to leave your baby to wash your hands after changing

Nappy cream – soothes sore bottoms
Baby lotion – great for tackling dry skin
Baby wipes – the fastest way to clean your baby during changes
Cotton wool balls – kind and gentle on delicate skin
Cotton wool buds – great for cleaning outer ears, skin creases and belly buttons (but never use inside the ear)
Digital thermometer – make sure your baby isn’t too hot or too cold

Babygrows/sleep suits – your newborn will probably spend most of her early weeks in them!
Tops – an extra layer when it’s cold or perfect for warm weather
Bottoms – for girls and boys
Socks – keep little feet toasty
Warm hat – choose one without a turn-up so it doesn’t flop over your baby’s nose and mouth
Scratch mittens – prevent your baby scratching her skin