Your Baby's RoomOver the past few months you may have had many ideas concerning the layout of your baby’s room. It is a good idea to prepare the room before she arrives; as once she is here your time and energy will be mainly taken up by her care. Safety and comfort for you both should be uppermost in your mind. Check out the Huggies Virtual Room Creator for some great ideas on how to set up your nursery. Pointers for Mum When arranging the baby’s room, remember to think of your own needs; equipment and accessories should be easy and convenient to reach without creating hazards. - Put up shelves so that you are able to see everything at a glance and withdraw items with ease.
- Keep powders and creams on shelves close to the changing mat but out of baby’s reach.
- Make sure there are no obstructions between the changing table, bath, your chair, and her cot.
- There should be no cords running across the floor. Set the lamp close to the wall socket.
- Put a comfortable, low chair in the baby’s room for night feeds – make sure it is easy to get out of and will support your back effectively.
Safety Precautions A safety lock should be fitted on each window in the baby’s room, along with bars if the window is close to the floor. - Flameproof fabric must be used for bedding, upholstery, and curtains.
- Place childproof covers over all power point sockets.
- Screen electric bar and gas heaters with guards.
- Coat walls and furniture in non-toxic, lead-free paint or varnish.
- Put child-proof safety catches on all cupboards and drawers, especially in the kitchen.
- Install smoke alarms.
- Ensure that all electrical cords are well out of your baby’s reach.
- Use non-slip mats in the bath and on the bathroom floor.
* Dr Miriam Stoppard MD FRCP, Conception, Pregnancy & Birth, Dorling Kindersley, Australia 2002
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