The Essentials to Create Your Baby Nursery in 2022

Expecting a baby this year? We're sure you've got your Pinterest boards going as you look to create your dream baby nursery to welcome your new arrival. However, it can also be quite an overwhelming time, especially if it's your first baby. So many 'must-haves', and information overload can lead to information paralysis. In this article we help you work out what you really need to create your baby nursery and how you can create a gift registry to help manage the cost.

What is a baby nursery?

First things first, a baby nursery is your baby's bedroom. It's a space where you can 'nest' before your child arrives and slowly bring the room to life. Whilst your baby might spend their first months sleeping in your bedroom, it's important to have a space in your home that's theirs. Many parents choose to theme their room, opting for a colour scheme, but really the choice is yours to make.

How to create a nursery?

When it comes to creating a nursery, there are really no rules. Some ideas you can try include centering the nursery around their cot, a big light or a mobile; adding colourful rugs to bring warmth to their room; decorating your change table station with artwork; and choosing a colour theme. Read some more ideas on creating a baby nursery at the memo.

Why make a gift registry?

Having a baby and creating a nursery comes with considerable cost. A great way to minimise the cost of creating your nursery is by creating a gift registry. Your loved ones are no doubt eager to buy you something to celebrate the arrival of your baby, and this way they can also get you something you really need.

7 Best Baby Nursery Products

Here's a roundup of the baby products we think are essential for creating any nursery in 2022. Add them to your own gift registry or file them as gift ideas for your expecting friends and family members.

1. Baby Bassinet Sheets

An ultra practical gift, let's start with beautiful fitted sheets for baby's bassinet. New parents will want a few changes for accidents, so these will definitely be a welcome gift. We recommend buying something ultra breathable. The Go To Bed sheets are a favourite thanks to being made from a soft 100% jersey cotton fabric that is lightweight, breathable and suitable all year round.

Features of Go To Bed Sheets:

Made from 100% jersey cotton
Lightweight
Breathable
Fitted

2. Baby Rocker

A baby rocker is a two-in-one product. It's playtime for your child and valuable hands-free time for you. We love the rocker from Charlie Crane as it's as practical as it is aesthetically pleasing. There's no need for batteries as it's a natural rocker that moves with your child's weight as they kick their legs around. It's also lightweight enough to be moved around the house so you can keep a close eye on them from a distance.

Features of Charlie Crane Rocker:

Natural rocker - no batteries needed
Made of wood
Soft organic muslin cushion
Suitable for newborns - 7 months old
Machine washable cushion

3. Baby Nest

Cute and cosy, a baby nest is a comfy space for your little one to rest and relax. It can be placed inside the cot, in your bed, or on the floor or dining table. It's a great little spot for your baby to rest in throughout the day, or you can bring it with you when visiting friends and family. We particularly like the cosy nest from Done by Deer made from 100% cotton.

Features of Done by Deer Nest:

Portable
Breathable
Air permeable
Made from 100% cotton

4. Bassinet Cot

It goes without saying that your #1 essential purchase for any child's room will be their bassinet. Safety is the first priority, followed by something comfortable that suits the dimensions of your room. The Cocoonababy Bassinet is an iconic newborn bed with rave reviews. Pop it inside a cot for the first few months for effortless sleep. The elongated semi-fetal position in the Cocoonababy can mimic the comfort of the womb and help reduce involuntary movements like the startle reflex and limit gastric reflux.

Features of Cocoonababy Bassinet:

Elongated semi-fetal position
Helps reduce gastric reflux
Suitable for newborns - 3 months old
Belt straps around baby's waist

5. Baby Monitor

Investing in a monitor is a personal choice as some parents prefer extra peace of mind, and others feel stressed at the idea of too much information. That said, if you do decide to use a baby monitor, there are tons to choose from. We like the Lollipop Smart Monitor which offers both video and sound in a non-intrusive way with a fun shape and colour. It's cute and comes in three bright colours, and gets bonus points for how easy it is to set up.

Features of Lollipop Smart Monitor:

Live video view
Built-in speaker
Sends notifications to your phone when your child cries
Infrared night vision
2.5x digital zoom

6. Baby Changing Mat

You'll be using a change mat a lot (up to 10 times a day), so it's important to pick something comfy and easy to clean. We love the Squishy Change Mat from Shnuggle. It's ultra portable and comfy thanks to being made from a premium foam. It's warm on your child's skin and is slightly inclined raising their head which can help to ease colic and reflux. Another plus - it's incredibly easy to clean! Bonus points for the hygienic, wipe-clean surface, which has no areas for dirt to gather and can be easily washed between uses.

Features of Squishy Change Mat:

Easy to clean
Inclined head rest
Made from cushioned premium foam
Suitable for newborns - two years old
Lightweight
PVC and BPA Free

7. Baby Foam Play Mat

An absolute staple in any nursery room is a foam play mat. It's ideal for tummy time and allowing parents some much-needed hands-free time. We love the cushioned mats from Jnr. Life as practical play spaces for kids that will complement your home decor at the same time. They are super cushioned and soft and made from non-toxic materials.