Furniture

For being such small people, babies really tend to collect a lot of stuff! The essential furniture items for a nursery are pretty straightforward and usually include a crib or another safe sleep space, a changing table or dresser with a changing pad, and a comfortable chair or glider for feeding and soothing your baby.

A changing table is a piece of furniture designed specifically for diaper changes. The best changing table is one that both matches your nursery style and has some functional features for longevity (think drawers or shelves); that way, you can use it after your baby outgrows diapers.

Watching your little one peacefully snoozing in their crib is one of the greatest pleasures of parenting. Whether you use a crib from day one or transition into one later, most parents get years of use out of this nursery essential. A crib is more than just a safe place for your little one to sleep—it’s also one of the biggest pieces of nursery furniture you’ll invest in and a chance to show off your personal style. When choosing a crib, consider factors such as safety features, mattress support, adjustable mattress height and the crib’s design and materials. Our baby crib shopping guide includes 40+ options to chose from that meet safety standards and provide a comfortable and secure sleeping environment for your baby.

You don’t need to wait until your baby is mobile to create a safe space for them, sabyproofing can start as soon as you begin to set up your nursery. To make sure your nursery is safe, ensure that all furniture and accessories are securely anchored and meet safety standards. Keep cords and electrical outlets out of reach or secured with an outlet cover, use baby-proofing measures on cabinets and drawers, and ensure a smoke-free and well-ventilated environment.

A mini crib is a smaller version of a full-size crib. Mini cribs share many of the same features as full-size cribs, just in a reduced size. Does thinking about how to fit a crib—along with all the other baby gear—into your home throw you into a panic? Consider a mini crib. It’s a major space saver and sometimes a multitasker, too, doubling as a bassinet or transitioning into a toddler bed down the road. Our list of the best mini cribs are expert-tested and parent-approved.