The Crib
Even if you're planning to co-sleep using a bassinet or the like in your room, getting the crib assembled before baby arrives will be far easier when you don't have to contend with sleep deprivation. An economical choice is to look for a 4-in-1 crib, which will convert into a toddler bed, daybed and then a full-size bed. As for crib accessories, the U.S. ConsumerProduct Safety Commission advocates that "bare is best" and to only use a mattress with a fitted sheet, making sure there are no gaps around the perimeter.
To buy: Hayden 4-in-1 Convertible Crib, $178
Night Light
You'll want a light in the room that is low enough for you to see but not so bright as to wake up baby. The 5-watt bulb achieves that all while housed in a pretty porcelain design.
To buy: Jonathan Adler Lion Nightight, $48
Changing Station
This is one area you're going to be seeing a lot of, especially in the first couple of months. The more convenient and organized you can make it now, the less frenzied you'll feel, especially during those triple-diaper-change doozies. One simple option is to convert a dresser you will be using for your child into a changing station. Make sure to keep the supplies you'll need close by like diapers, wipes or a spray bottle, towels, extra clothes and any other hygiene necessities.
To buy: Land of Nod Campaign Dresser, $1099
Diaper Pail
To prevent baby's room from smelling like that perpetually dirty diaper you're constantly changing, a diaper pail or "diaper genie" is a must. While there are a few options—ranging from sleek steel to a more budget-friendly plastic—all you really need is one that will get the odor-eliminating job done.
To buy: Ubbi Diaper Pail, $80
A Glider
If you're going to be doing midnight, 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. feedings, you might as well be as comfortable as possible. A glider is a bit of a pricier purchase than a regular chair (ranging anywhere from a couple of hundred to over a grand), but you'll be thanking yourself for making the splurge once you prop up your feet, lean back your head and feel those soothing rocking motions. Choose one with a slipcover for easy cleaning.
To buy: Slipcovered Glider, $1500
Humidifier
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping a humidifier in a child's room during the winter months, which can help ease congestion and prevent nosebleeds. For safety reasons, choose one that makes a cool mist instead of warm is preferred. Another feature you may want it to include is the ability to automatically shut off, especially if it accidentally tips over.
To buy: Crane Cool Mist Humidifier, $40
Storage Boxes
The rate at which your little one will outgrow her newborn clothes will astound you, so plan your storage system now to be able to swap out the new sizes at a moment's notice.
To buy: Linen Storage Boxes, $25-30
Organization Cubbies
Though not necessarily a necessity, having cubbies to keep books and store baskets of toys will make for easy access along with some easy organization—something you'll really value, come those toddler years when books and toys get strewn around the room as fast as you put them away. And as you'll quickly discover, you can never have enough books—for both your child and your sanity (unless you want to read "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" every day).
To buy: Cameron Storage System, $1249
Monitor
The peace of mind this device will buy you is well worth the price. Since you likely already have a screen (such as an iPad or a phone), you can save a little money by opting for a monitor that connects directly to it rather than getting a separate video monitor. Plus, it offers you the option (if you want it) of being able to check in on your sleeping child when you're supposed to be enjoying date night.
To buy: LeFun Baby Monitor, $70
A Play Gym
When laundry or other house duties call and you need a secure spot to entertain baby while you do so, a play gym is your go-to. The dangling toys make for a multi-sensory experience with their bold colors, squeaky noises and soft materials. Light and portable, baby will love playing in his room.
To buy: Skip Hop Alphabet Zoo Activity Gym, $75
