Nursery Setup Guide for Dads

Keep It Simple

Pinterest will make you think you need a designer nursery. You do not. Babies need a safe place to sleep and a spot for diaper changes. Everything else is optional.

Safety First

Non-negotiable safety requirements:

• Crib safety - Firm, flat mattress. No blankets, pillows, bumpers, or toys. Just a fitted sheet.
• Furniture anchoring - Secure dressers and bookshelves to the wall. Tip-overs are deadly.
• Cord management - No blind cords or electrical cords within reach
• Temperature - Room should be 68-72 degrees. No heaters or fans blowing directly on the crib.

The Essentials

• Crib or bassinet - Bassinet is great for early months, but baby will outgrow it by 4-6 months
• Changing area - Can be a dedicated table or a pad on a dresser
• Storage - Dresser or closet organizer for clothes, diapers, wipes
• Comfortable chair - For night feedings (you will use this constantly)
• Dim lighting - A dimmable lamp or night light for night feeds

Nice to Have

• White noise machine
• Blackout curtains
• Diaper caddy for organizing supplies
• Baby monitor

Skip These

• Crib bumpers (suffocation hazard)
• Sleep positioners (suffocation hazard)
• Elaborate decorations baby will not notice

Dad Project Ideas

If you want to DIY something:

• Build or assemble the crib
• Install a dimmer switch
• Anchor furniture to walls
• Set up the baby monitor
• Build floating shelves for books and decor

Timing

Aim to have the nursery ready by week 36. Third trimester fatigue is real, and you do not want to be assembling furniture while mom is in labor.

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