Nursery Checklist
Everything for the Nursery, and What Can Wait
52 things across sleep, feeding, diapering, clothing, bath, and safety, with 21 of them marked as the ones to have before baby arrives. Flip the switch to see only those.
0 of 52 ready
Start with the essentials. The rest can wait.
Nice to Have
0/8Common Questions
What do I actually need before baby arrives?
Far less than a registry suggests. A safe place to sleep, a car seat, diapers, wipes, somewhere to change them, a few onesies and sleepers, and something to feed with. That is roughly 21 items on this list, marked as essential. Everything else can be bought in the first few months, once you know what your baby is actually like.
When should I start setting up the nursery?
Most people start in the second trimester and aim to be done by around 36 weeks. Order the big pieces early, since furniture delays are common, and leave the small consumables until last.
How many newborn clothes do I need?
Fewer than you think, in newborn size, and more than you think in 0 to 3 months. Many babies are out of newborn sizing within a couple of weeks, and some skip it entirely. Six to eight onesies and four to six sleepers will get you through, given you will be doing laundry constantly either way.
What is not worth buying up front?
Anything that depends on your baby's preferences: bottles, pacifiers, swaddles, and carriers. Babies reject them for reasons no review can predict. Buy one of each and see before you commit to a set.
Do I need a changing table?
No. A changing pad on top of a dresser you already own does the same job, takes less space, and stays useful long after the diaper years. If you do use a dresser, anchor it to the wall.