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Nursery Safety Checklist
Nursery Safety Checklist for New Parents (Room-by-Room Guide)
Preparing a nursery is exciting, but safety should always come first. Babies are vulnerable to hazards that adults don’t notice, so setting up a safe nursery from day one gives you peace of mind and helps prevent common accidents.
This nursery safety checklist walks new parents through everything that matters — from furniture and sleep safety to monitors, lighting, and everyday essentials.
Why Nursery Safety Matters
According to pediatric safety experts, most infant injuries at home are preventable with proper setup and supervision. A safe nursery:
Reduces risk of falls, suffocation, and strangulation
Supports safe sleep habits
Creates a calm, parent-friendly space for nighttime care
Crib & Sleep Safety (Top Priority)
✔️ Crib Setup Checklist
Use a JPMA-certified crib that meets current safety standards
Mattress fits snugly (no gaps larger than two fingers)
Mattress is firm and flat
Crib slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart
❌ Keep the Crib EMPTY
Only these are allowed:
Fitted crib sheet
Baby on their back
Avoid:
Pillows
Blankets
Bumpers
Stuffed animals
Sleep positioners
📌 Safe sleep reduces the risk of SIDS.
Furniture & Tip-Over Prevention
✔️ Secure All Furniture
Anchor dressers, shelves, and changing tables to the wall
Avoid placing heavy items on top of furniture
Use drawer locks once baby becomes mobile
✔️ Changing Table Safety
Use a changing pad with raised sides
Keep one hand on baby at all times
Store supplies within arm’s reach
🔌 Electrical & Cord Safety
✔️ Outlet & Cord Protection
Install outlet covers on all unused outlets
Keep monitor, lamp, and charger cords out of reach
Use cord shorteners or covers
✔️ Lighting Safety
Choose LED night lights that stay cool
Avoid floor lamps that can tip over
Use dimmable lighting for nighttime feedings
Monitor & Baby Gear Safety
✔️ Baby Monitor Placement
Mount cameras at least 3 feet away from the crib
Secure cords against walls
Test audio/video before first use
✔️ Other Gear
Check weight limits on swings and bouncers
Always supervise use
Never place baby gear on elevated surfaces
Temperature, Air & Environment
✔️ Room Conditions
Ideal nursery temperature: 68–72°F (20–22°C)
Use a room thermometer
Avoid space heaters
✔️ Air Quality
Keep nursery smoke-free
Use fragrance-free cleaning products
Optional: HEPA air purifier (no ozone)
Small Items & Storage Safety
✔️ Choking Hazard Prevention
Store small items, creams, and medications out of reach
Use childproof latches on drawers
Keep diaper creams and wipes secured
Nursery Safety Essentials to Buy
These products help make your nursery safer:
Furniture wall anchors
Outlet covers
LED night lights
Cord covers
Baby monitor (audio or video)
👉 We recommend choosing products with strong safety ratings and verified reviews.
❓ Nursery Safety FAQs
When should nursery baby-proofing start?
Before baby arrives. It’s much easier to secure furniture and cords ahead of time.
Do I need a video baby monitor?
Not required, but many parents find video monitors helpful for peace of mind.
Are crib bumpers ever safe?
No. Most pediatric organizations advise against crib bumpers due to suffocation risk.
Final Thoughts
A safe nursery doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. By focusing on safe sleep, secure furniture, and basic baby-proofing, you create a space where your baby — and you — can rest easier.
👉 Next up: Must-Have Nursery Essentials.https://www.nestingbabynook.com/must-have-nursery-essentials
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
