Changing Table
This piece of furniture provides youwith a flat, elevated space to change your little one’s diapers. According to standards set by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA),it should be fully enclosed with barriers on all four sides.
A soft changing pad will go on top— look for one that’s waterproof and easy to clean, or get a few changing pad covers you can swap out quickly.
What to Consider
Style
Built-in compartments provide storage space for changing supplies.
Material
The table should be made of strong, durable material like wood.
Safety
Make sure there’s a strap to keep baby secure once they start to roll.
Baby Bathtub
Between spit ups and blow outs, infants are a messy bunch. Setting a regular bath time routine is essential for keeping their delicate skin clean. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends starting with three days a week, but you can bump that up if a warm soak soothes your baby.
When choosing a baby bathtub, consider where you’ll be doing bath time. This will help guide you when it comes to size and style. No matter where it takes place, always follow safety guidelines, which includes using a sturdy tub and checking water temperature.
Basin Tub
Sturdy, plastic tubs with rubber grips on the bottom to prevent slipping.
In-SinkTub
Smaller basins or baby seats that fit in a kitchen or bathroom sink.
ConvertibleTub
Basin-style tub with an additional removable infant insert or sling.
InflatableTub
Lightweight, portable tubs that often include a removable infant seat.
FoldingTub
Collapsible and travel-friendly, these work for homes without a standard tub.
Baby Bath Accessories
Bath time is crucial for new baby hygiene, but it’s also a way to gently care for your little one and spend quality bonding time. Just make sure you have the right items at hand to make it as tear-free as possible.
BabyShampoo
Opt for a gentle, fragrance-free baby shampoo and body wash.
BabyLotion
Use after bath time to keep skin moisturized and prevent itchy spots.
Bath Mat
Find a thick, squishy mat that you can comfortably kneel on.
BathThermometer
Quickly check to make sure bath water is at a safe temperature.
RinsingCup
Keep water and soap out of little one’s eyes as you wash their hair.
Spout andKnob Cover
Help protect your baby from bumping and bruising their head.
Soft Baby Brush
Brushing helps loosen cradle cap and encourages hair growth.
Bath Toys
Fun options include tugboats, rubber ducks, and pouring cups.
Baby Thermometer
Getting sick is inevitable and you’ll want to be ready for baby’s first cold. Having a set of reliable, accurate thermometers to check their temperature will provide some much-needed peace of mind.
Rectal thermometers are the most accurate, but not always the easiestto use on a squirming baby, so it’s good to have a few other styles on hand.
RectalThermometer
The gold standard for newborns and infants because of its reliability.
EarThermometer
A speedy option, but only for babies three months and older.
ForeheadThermometer
Most convenient and least intrusive, especially on a sleeping baby.
DigitalThermometer
A versatile general thermometer for underarm, mouth, and rectal use.
Diaper Disposal System
A well-designed diaper disposal system seals off and contains all of that odor so the nursery can stay fresh and peaceful. Many require their own special bags, so once you choose a model, get plenty of refills.
What to Consider
Function
Reducing smells is its number one job, so find one with a durable airtight design.
Size
Look at the volume capacity to get a more accurate sense of how much it can hold.
Features
An extra-wide opening or one-handed operation makes the process less of a chore.
Diapers
Keeping your baby’s bottom dry and clean is key to preventing rashes. According to the AAP, newborns go through an average of eight or more diapers a day, so you’ll need an efficient changing solution.
Regardless of what type you settle on, make sure to stock up in multiple sizes—your baby will be growing fast.If sensitive skin runs in your family,look for ones that are fragrance free.
DisposableDiapers
These absorbent, one-time use diapers secure around your baby’s waist with adhesive tabs.
BiodegradableDiapers
An eco-friendly option, these are made from plant-based materials and must be composted.
ClothDiapers
Reusable fabric that can be washed after each use, these require waterproof outer covers.