Nesting is one of the most common experiences of pregnancy. Almost all mums-to-be go experience a strong desire to get their home ready to bring baby home to. Just try not to leave all the DIY until you're on maternity leave!
A Room Of One's Own
It is likely you are going to want to have your baby sleeping in your room for the first few weeks or months following the birth. But sooner or later, you'll want to get the baby settled into its own room.
It is probable that this is going to be baby's room for a few years, so bear that in mind when you decorate it. Choose a style that will be suitable for up to pre-school age. Research has suggested babies prefer bright, bold, primary colours and distinct patterns that they can focus their developing eyesight on. A few large pictures of animals or cartoon characters will liven up the nursery no end, giving Baby something to look at. It's also worth buying a musical mobile to put about the cot to keep your baby entertained when they're put to bed.
Hush-A-Bye Baby
Initially your baby can sleep in a Moses basket or crib, but soon enough they'll need a proper cot. Ideally, get a drop-down cot with a safety catch. If it isn't new, check the woodwork is splinter free and smooth and that the paint or varnish is non-toxic. The bars should be no more than 5.5cm apart. This is very important; any bigger and the baby could jam its head through them.
Buy a new waterproof mattress with air-holes and make sure it fits perfectly into the cot with no gaps around the edge. You'll need two or three fitted sheets to dress the bed with, plus a number of light, cellular blankets to prevent the over-heating that could be caused by a heavy quilt. This is worth the extra money as over-heating has been implicated as factor in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Tables And Chairs
A sturdy, waist-high, flat topped piece of furniture to use as a changing table is extremely useful for the day-to-day care of your baby. It helps if you can have nearby shelves or drawers in which to keep all your baby changing products. You will also need drawers and a cupboard for baby’s clothes along with shelves and/or a big toy box for books and toys.
Night, Night Invest in a dimmer switch for the main light or a small lamp for checking on baby and night feeds. You are going to need a comfortable chair to sit in while you’re doing the night feeds, but make sure it's not too difficult to get up from.
