The Top 5 Nursery Room Essentials You Shouldn't Cheap Out On
Setting up your nursery is an exciting, yet daunting task, especially for first-time parents or those welcoming a baby after several years. You might be asking yourself, “What should I invest in, and where can I save?” It’s easy to get swept up in the endless array of adorable baby items, but the reality is, some essentials should be high-quality investments. These are the nursery room staples you’ll use every day—and skimping on them might lead to frustration and added costs down the line.
Here are the top 5 nursery essentials you should not cheap out on:
1) Changing Mat
A changing mat might seem like a small, trivial item, but its importance cannot be overstated. This is where you’ll change countless nappies, moisturize, and care for your baby multiple times a day. A low-quality mat might be cold, crack over time, or harbour dust and bacteria in its seams. Worse, cheap mats often have sharp edges that could irritate your baby’s skin.
Instead, opt for a premium changing mat like the Shnuggle Squishy Changing Pad Mat. Priced at £59.95, it might seem steep compared to budget options, but it’s made of soft, warm-touch material that’s waterproof, easy to wipe down, and completely seam-free. It will last through countless diaper changes without warping or cracking, giving you peace of mind and comfort for your baby.
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2) Nursing Chair
A comfortable, well-made nursing chair is another investment worth making. Many parents mistakenly believe that nursing chairs are only necessary for breastfeeding moms. However, a good quality nursing chair is invaluable for all parents. This is where you’ll spend some of the most tender moments with your child, whether you’re feeding, reading, cuddling, or soothing them to sleep.
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A solid choice is the Babymore Freya Boucle Rocking Chair. It’s compact, comes with a footstool, and offers a stylish yet cosy retreat for those long nights. If you prefer something with more functionality, the Obaby Madison Glider is a dream, with soft Boucle fabric, thick padding, and a built-in recliner. These are chairs you’ll use daily, so treat yourself to one that will stand the test of time and comfort.
Shop Clair de Lune Premium Bamboo Pocket Sprung Mattress >
3) Cot Bed Mattress
It’s tempting to spend more on a beautiful cot bed and save on the mattress, but this can be a costly mistake. A mattress impacts how well your baby sleeps, and since they’ll spend most of their time sleeping during the first few months, quality is key. Cheap mattresses often lack support, flatten over time, and fail to regulate temperature properly, which can make your baby uncomfortable and restless.
Invest in a high-quality, pocket-sprung mattress with moisture and temperature-regulating materials. The Clair de Lune Premium Bamboo Pocket Sprung Mattress or the Obaby Moisture Management Dual Core Premium Mattress are excellent options. Both provide the necessary support and comfort to ensure your baby sleeps soundly, while their durable designs mean they’ll hold up for years to come.
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4) Car Seat
While many parents bundle a car seat with their travel system, these bundled seats often only last for the first year of your child’s life. Considering children need to use a car seat until they’re 12 years old or 135 centimetres tall, investing in a car seat that will grow with your child is a smart move.
The Babymore Macadamia 360 Car Seat is a fantastic option that can carry your baby from new-born all the way to 12 years old. This 360-degree rotating seat comes with Isofix anchor points and a recline and tilt function, making it both practical and long-lasting. With a price of £279.00, it’s a worthwhile investment for your child’s safety and your convenience.
5) High Chair
While a high chair might not be needed immediately, once your baby starts on solid foods, it will quickly become an essential item you’ll use three times a day. Don’t settle for a cheap, hard-to-clean model that won’t stand up to daily use. You’ll want a high chair that’s easy to clean, offers proper support with removable cushions, and comes with a removable tray for effortless clean-up.
The Clair de Lune 6-in-1 High Chair ticks all these boxes. It’s designed to grow with your child, offering flexibility for different stages of development. The removable tray and drip tray help with easy cleaning, and the support cushion ensures your baby is comfortable as they start their solid food journey.
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Setting up your nursery is a labour of love, and while it’s tempting to save where you can, these five essentials are worth the splurge. Investing in quality, durable items for your nursery will pay off in the long run, ensuring both you and your baby have a comfortable and stress-free experience during those precious early years.
Ready to start building your dream nursery? Check out My First Nursery for a wide selection of high-quality furniture and essentials designed to give you and your baby the best start.