Newborn Baby Nursery Checklist

Nursery styling is big business, and with so many products on the market, it can take time (and experience) to narrow down must-have items versus extras.

The products in this baby nursery checklist are hand-picked by the Purebaby team to help you plan, shop and prepare for a beautiful and functional nursery.

Start with the basics

No matter your vision and style, most nurseries include three key pieces of furniture:

• A cot or bassinet that meets current AS/NZS 2172

  Australian Standard

  for safe sleep

• A changing table for nappy rotations and dressing

• Practical storage for clothes, toys and accessories

Investing in a rocking chair can make breastfeeding or bottle feeding more comfortable and soothe your baby with gentle movement.

Think about sleep time set up

Creating the optimal sleeping environment for your baby should sit at the top of your baby nursery checklist. Why? Because too much light, inadequate blinds and busy mobiles can keep your little one up when you need to put them down.

Consider the advice of Natalie Herman, a Certified Baby Sleep Consultant who knows what it takes to lull your baby into restful sleep.

Shop the Purebaby nursery essentials list

With basic furniture and the sleep environment ticked off, it's time to explore everything else you need to create the perfect nursery.

1. Swaddles

Swaddling your baby can make them feel safe, secure and warm, just like in the womb. Look for swaddles and wraps made from soft, breathable, high-quality materials like our 100% organic cotton Printed Muslin Wrap. These multi-purpose wraps double as a nursing shield and lightweight blanket, so it never hurts to stock up.

2. Sleeping bags and sleepwear

Once your baby can roll, you'll need to switch to a sleeping bag to keep them snug when they sleep. We offer a range of safe, breathable and machine washable sleeping bags. Customer favourites include the Sleeveless Sleeping Bag 2TOG.

3. Sleepwear

Most parents will agree that baby sleepwear has to be practical, and you can never have too much. The Purebaby Essentials Long Sleeve Sleepsuit is a best seller and essential item for newborns. Each suit is made from 100% organic cotton and features an envelope neckline, elastic bottom pouch for easy changing and inbuilt mittens. 

4. Cot sheets

The quality of your cot linen is just as important as sleepwear. Aside from protecting the cot mattress, breathable linen can help to regulate and maintain your baby's temperature. Our Printed Fitted Cot Sheets and Jersey Fitted Cot Sheets are gentle on delicate skin, come in varying styles and fit most standard cots.

5. Quilt Covers

Quilts are a handy addition to your nursery bedding collection, especially as the weather cools. As with all bedding, natural materials that withstand frequent washing are a good investment. Our Reversible Quilted Coverlet, in pink or blue hues, is a warm and versatile addition to your little one's bedroom that doubles as a play mat.

6. Blankets

You'll often find yourself reaching for a baby blanket in the nursery or living room, in the pram, or at the park. A good blanket will see you through naptime to playtime and beyond, so it pays to invest in a handful of quality options. Our Pom Pom Blanket, made from 100% organic cotton, it’s Eczema-friendly and is sure to be cherished. Parents also love the Embroidered Lined Blanket, made from recycled materials and adorned with two sweet patterns. 

7. Change mats

No nursery or nappy bag is complete without a Change Mat. Expertly crafted, each mat features a soft, 100% organic cotton terry towelling inside with a waterproof inner layer that folds up neatly for on-the-go convenience.

8. Play mats

Tummy time and playtime call for a cosy, baby-safe play mat, like the Quilted Play Mat. Made with a blend of organic cotton and linen, it is soft, lightweight and machine washable—everything you need in a play mat. 

9. Toys

Babies learn and make sense of the world through play. Choosing age-appropriate, educational baby toys can encourage tactile play and help your little one build skills. Our play range includes safe and sustainable wooden toys offering endless fun for your little ones, in timeless designs. 

10. Comforters

From settling to sleep to embarking on new adventures, a comforter can help your baby feel safe and calm. Look for gentle fabric and a solid design that will weather frequent washing and unconditional love, like the Knitted Bear Comforter or Knitted Bunny Comforter

Five non-essential nursery items

Now that we've covered the must-have items, here is our pick of decorations, starter kits and little luxuries you can add to your dream nursery.

1. Celebrate and capture special moments with our non-toxic and chemical-free

   Wooden Milestone Blocks

   .

2. Colour your nursery walls with the

   Upcycled Baby Bunting

   from our pre-loved range.

3. Add an adjustable

   Knot Hat

   to your newborn clothing collection.

4. Pop

   The Birth Space

   on your reading list—a doula's guide to choosing the right birth for you.

5. Prepare for sustainable clean ups with our 100% organic cotton

   cloth wipes

Is your nursery items checklist long and overwhelming? Setting up a gift registry can help friends and family contribute in a valuable way.

Download our printable version of our Newborn Baby Nursery Checklist here.