How to Set Up a Baby Nursery at Home

As a neonatal nurse, I’ve spent a lot of time around newborns and their mothers, and I know that setting up a nursery can feel like a mix of excitement and confusion. There’s a lot to think about—where do you put everything? What do you really need? When I help new mums after they’ve given birth, it’s easy to spot the ones who had their nursery well-planned versus those who may have overlooked a few key details. The goal is to create a space that’s functional, comfortable, and, of course, safe for your baby.

To set up a baby nursery at home, start by choosing essential furniture like a cot, change table, and comfortable chair. Organise the space with storage solutions for baby gear and supplies, and create efficient zones for sleep, feeding, and nappy changes. 

What Are the Essentials for a Baby Nursery?

Furniture

• Cot: The cot is the centrepiece of your baby’s sleeping area. Look for one that meets crib safety standards for your country. with a firm mattress and fitted sheet for safe sleep.
• Change Table: A change table helps keep nappy changes quick and easy. Choose one with built-in storage for diapers, wipes, and clothes, or use a chest of drawers with a changing pad on top to save space. 
• Glider or Rocking Chair: A comfortable chair is essential for late-night feedings or rocking your baby to sleep. The rocking motion helps foster deep sleep which is great for babies. Look for one with good back support and a gentle rocking motion to soothe both you and your baby. Consider placing it near the cot for easier transitions after feeding. 
• Chest of Drawers: A chest of drawers is great for storing baby clothes, blankets, and other essentials. You can also add a changing pad on top to turn it into a dual-purpose piece of furniture. Consider anchoring heavy pieces of furniture like this for a safer environment in your baby's nursery.
• Bassinet (Optional): Some parents opt for a bassinet for the first few months to keep the baby closer to their bedside, especially during night feedings. This can be a convenient addition if space allows but make sure that the one you choose is safe for your little one.

Storage Solutions

• Shelves: Wall-mounted shelves help keep the nursery organised without taking up floor space. Use them to store toys, books, or décor.
• Drawer Organisers: Use dividers in the chest of drawers to neatly separate baby clothes, socks, and accessories, making it easy to find what you need quickly. 
• Bins and Baskets: Bins and baskets are ideal for storing nappies, toys, and extra blankets. They can be tucked under the change table or placed on a shelf for easy access. 
• Closet Organisers: If your nursery has a wardrobe, install closet organisers or hanging dividers to maximise the space for baby clothes, shoes, and other accessories. Babies grow out of clothes pretty quickly so seeing what you have can make it easier to make the most of your baby's clothes and could save you from a few unnecessary shopping trips too.
• Nappy Caddy: A portable nappy caddy keeps all your nappy-changing essentials in one spot and can be moved from room to room if needed.

Lighting

• Dimmable Lamps: Night feedings are inevitable and can last from 6-12 months. Turning the lights on to feed your baby could wake them so having a dimmable lamp that allows you to adjust the brightness for night feeds without waking your baby fully is a must.
• Nightlight: A nightlight provides enough light to move around the room without turning on bright overhead lights, which can disturb your baby’s sleep and disrupt their circadian rhythm.
• Blockout Curtains: Given Australia’s intense sunlight, blockout curtains are great for shielding the room from strong daytime sun during naps, helping your baby settle down to sleep. 

Baby Gear

• Baby Monitor: A baby monitor lets you keep an eye on your little one from another room. Choose one with video and audio capabilities for added peace of mind.
• Air Purifier: With Australia's bushfire-prone regions and concerns over air quality in some cities, an air purifier with HEPA filter can help keep the air clean and healthy for your baby, especially during allergy seasons or smoky conditions.
• Nappy Bin: A nappy bin is a convenient way to dispose of nappies without the smell lingering in the room. Choose one with odour control to keep the nursery fresh.
• Nursing Pillow: A good nursing pillow provides the support you need for feeding sessions, reducing strain on your arms, shoulders, and back while keeping your baby at the right height and encouraging a proper latch. Having a versatile option, like the Butterfly Maternity Pillow® that transitions from a pregnancy pillow to a nursing pillow with a specially designed cover, ensures you’re prepared for both pregnancy comfort and nursing ease. It’s a practical addition that makes those long feeding sessions more comfortable for both you and your baby.

Check out the Butterfly Maternity Pillow® and Nursing Cover here. 

Baby Products to Keep Handy

• Nappies and Wipes: Keep plenty of nappies and wipes within arm’s reach of the change table. You’ll go through these quickly, so having them organised and accessible is key.
• Spew Rags or Muslin Cloths: Keep a stack of spew rags or muslin cloths handy for quick cleanups after feeds. These are especially helpful for wiping up milk spills and can be placed near your feeding chair.
• Swaddles and Lightweight Blankets: In Australia’s warmer climate, lightweight swaddles and muslin cloths are more appropriate than heavy blankets. Keep a few extras in the nursery for when you need to change one out.
• Baby Toiletries: Items like baby lotion, nappy rash cream, and baby-safe body wash should be stored nearby, so you can quickly grab them after a nappy change or bath.

How to Create Zones in the Baby Nursery for Maximum Efficiency

Setting Up a Sleeping Area

The cot is the star of the sleeping zone, and it’s essential to follow safe sleep guidelines. Make sure the cot is free from toys, blankets, and pillows. Place the cot away from windows, heaters, and cords for safety, but close enough to your feeding station for easier access. Keeping a small table next to your chair with essentials like a water bottle, spew rags, and a nursing pillow can make those night feeds a lot more comfortable.

Creating a Changing Station

Your change table should be set up with all the necessary supplies within reach. Place the change table or chest of drawers in a spot where you can easily grab wipes, nappies, and fresh clothes. Consider using drawer dividers or baskets to keep everything organised. A change table next to storage makes nappy duty quicker, especially when your little one is extra wiggly!

Designing a Feeding and Soothing Area

Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, setting up a dedicated feeding area is crucial. A comfortable chair with good back support can make all the difference, especially during those late-night sessions. Place the chair near the cot so you don’t have to walk far to put your baby back to bed. Keeping your nursing pillow (like our Butterfly Maternity Pillow® that can double as a nursing pillow with the nursing cover) nearby helps make feeding more comfortable for both you and your baby, especially during the first weeks when you're both still discovering the best way to feed. 

How to Ensure Sleep Safety in the Baby Nursery

What Are the Safe Sleep Guidelines for Newborns?

The first rule of nursery setup is safety, and sleep safety is a top priority. Ensure your baby’s cot has a firm mattress and fitted sheet, and avoid any loose items inside. Follow the AAP Safe Sleep Recommendations which includes placing babies on their backs to sleep and keeping the cot free of toys, pillows, and blankets. For temperature control, dress your baby in layers or use a sleep sack to keep them warm without the need for extra blankets.

How to Position the Cot for Optimal Safety?

It’s important to consider where you place the cot in the nursery. Avoid placing the cot near windows, cords, or heaters, as these can pose safety risks. Keeping the cot within easy reach of your feeding chair can make nighttime transitions smoother, but make sure the area around the cot is clutter-free to avoid tripping hazards during the night.

How to Choose the Right Décor for a Baby Nursery?

Choosing a Theme

When it comes to decorating the nursery, choosing a theme can help create a soothing and cohesive space. Whether you opt for a nature-inspired theme or classic pastels, keep in mind that the nursery should be a calming environment for both you and your baby. Try to select timeless colours and décor that will grow with your baby, so you won’t feel the need to redecorate too soon.

Safe and Non-Toxic Materials

It’s important to choose safe, non-toxic materials for your nursery. When painting the nursery, opt for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals. Look for furniture and mattresses that are made from non-toxic, eco-friendly materials, as babies spend a lot of time in their nursery, and their developing bodies are more sensitive to chemicals.

FAQs

When Should I Start Setting Up the Nursery?

Like packing your hospital bag or babyproofing your home, setting up the nursery must be done earlier than your due date. Ideally, begin setting up the nursery during your second trimester to avoid rushing closer to your due date.

How Can I Maximise Space in a Small Nursery?

Use vertical storage like shelves or wall-mounted organisers to save floor space. Opt for multifunctional furniture, such as a chest of drawers that doubles as a change table.

Do I Need a Separate Change Table?

Not necessarily. Many parents use a chest of drawers with a changing pad on top to save space and provide extra storage.

What Type of Lighting Is Best for a Baby Nursery?

Soft, adjustable lighting like dimmable lamps or nightlights is ideal for creating a calming atmosphere without waking the baby fully during nighttime feeds, especially on warm Australian nights.

Closing Thoughts

Setting up a baby nursery at home is all about creating a safe, functional, and cosy space for both you and your little one. By focusing on essential furniture, organising items efficiently, and paying attention to safety, you’ll create a nursery that makes those first few months a little easier. If you’re looking for versatile solutions to make the nursery a comfortable space for both mum and baby, check out our Butterfly Maternity Pillow® and nursing cover designed for use throughout your pregnancy, during nursing, and even for tummy time as your little one grows.

*The shape of the Butterfly Maternity Pillow® is a registered trade mark of Weekly Sales Pty Ltd