Setting Up a Baby Nursery: Essentials & Safety for Australian Homes
We’re often asked: “What do I need when setting up a baby nursery”? Here’s our expert checklist with linked references from trusted Australian organisations for nursery safety.
Nursery Essentials
- Cot – Must comply with the mandatory standard. See the ACCC’s Household Cots Guide for safety details.
- Cot mattress – Should fit snugly, with no gaps. Guidance on sleep safety is available at the same ACCC link above.
- 5 Cot sheets
- Cot valance
- Bumper pad – Remove once baby begins pulling up; mesh alternatives are safer.
- Sleeping bag or blanket – Follow Red Nose Safe Sleep Recommendations: Safe Sleeping.
- Musical mobile (remove when baby pulls up)
- Changing table or chest changer with safety pad
- Comfortable breastfeeding glider chair
- Nursing pillow
- Night-light or lullaby-capable baby monitor
- Digital baby monitor
- Toy storage (choose no-heavy-lid chest)
- Wall-mounted shelves/hooks (secured, lightweight)
- Window treatments – Ensure cords are secured via ACCC’s blind safety advice (linked via Household Cots Guide too).
- Clothes basket
- Nursery lamp/night-light
- Cool-air humidifier
Nursery Safety Principles
- Secure blind or curtain cords using cleats or safety mechanisms.
- Install and regularly test a working smoke alarm near the nursery.
- Use window guards to prevent falls; avoid placing furniture near windows.
- Cover unused power points with safety plugs.
- Use toy boxes without heavy lids to prevent entrapment.
- Use only cool-air humidifiers; clean and empty when not in use.
Changing Table Safety
- Always fasten the safety belt during use.
- Keep baby care items (powder, creams) out of reach.
- Avoid leaving baby unattended, even briefly.
- Use a non-slip mat underneath.
Cot Safety Checklist
- Remove bumpers, toys, pillows when baby can sit or stand.
- Remove mobiles when baby is mobile in cot.
- No elevated corner posts or decorative cut-outs.
- Keep the mattress snug; ACCC’s household cots guide outlines proper spacing.
- Regularly check and tighten screws, bolts, supports.
- Keep cot free of plastic bags or small choking hazards.
- Always lay baby on their back on a flat, firm surface (refer Red Nose Safe Sleep).
Designer Nursery Packages
Save time and money with our designer nursery packages-starting at $999-which include safe NZ timber cots and full décor coordination.
About the Author
Frank is a founding owner of Bubs n Grubs and the sole author of the Bubs n Grubs Baby Blog. Since 2009, he’s tested and installed baby products and safety gear in Australian homes. Frank is an ACRI-trained car seat fitter and frequently featured on Channel 7 and Channel 9 as a trusted child safety expert.
Important: This guide provides general safety information only and does not replace professional advice. Always check product instructions and comply with Australian safety standards. For emergencies, call 000.