All mommys-to-be dream of setting up a picture perfect nursery for their new baby. But, what makes a perfect nursery? Well, the very first thing you will need to do is decide on the nursery furniture. Every baby's nursery must have a crib, changing table, dresser, rocking chair, and a lamp.

In today's baby furniture market there are many choices of cribs to choose from. Set a budget and get the measurements of the room before you start shopping. Price and the size of the crib are not the only decisions you will be making, so start early so you will have plenty of time to find that perfect crib. You may want the traditional look of a rectangular crib, or go with a unique round crib. Also, some cribs are made to convert into toddler beds and, later, adult beds for lifetime use. Whatever the style or color you choose, just be sure you are buying from an authorized dealer of the brand so all warranties will be in tact. Also, be sure to check if the crib meets or exceeds all Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and government requirements. Most importantly, all materials should be finished with non-toxic paint and contain no formaldehyde.

With every new baby comes the extra chore of dirty diapers. Several times a day you will need a place for you and baby to comfortably complete this chore. A changing table specifically designed for this purpose is the answer. When you are shopping, ask if the changing pad comes with the table, or if it is priced separately. Decide what items you will be storing in the changing table and take measurements of your space. Many changing tables have shelves, drawers, or a combination of both. When you are shopping, remember you will have one hand holding the baby. So, any drawers or doors that need to be opened must be easy to get into one-handed.

Another furniture item needed in the baby's nursery is a dresser. Many times, you can save money by purchasing the crib and dresser as a set. You will be able to choose from a variety of dressers such as dressers with drawers, dressers with side-by-side shelving, or a combination of both. Remember, many times you will be holding baby while you gather items with the other hand, so open each drawer one handed before you buy. Some styles are difficult to open one-handed. Also, verify all warranties are in place and inquire about safety features before you buy.

You will be spending many hours rocking and feeding your new baby. This makes a rocking chair in the nursery a must. Before you shop, decide what you will be most comfortable in for long periods of time and how much space it will take up in the nursery. Some mothers choose a traditional rocking chair with a comfortable cushion. Others like the option of a recliner to comfortably put up your feet and sleep with your precious new baby.

The lighting in your baby's nursery is very important. When your little one wakes up at four in the morning, the last thing you or your baby want is a bright light. On the other hand, you need enough light to safely move around in the nursery for changing and feeding. A lamp will let off enough light for you, and still keep the room in semi-darkness for a sleepy baby. You have a choice between floor lamps, table lamps, and lamps with several light settings (these last ones require a special bulb that is a little more costly). Just be sure any lamp is safely out of reach once baby starts becoming more adventurous.

Whatever style or color you choose for your baby's nursery, nothing will take the place of you being there. Shopping for furniture and decorations is an exciting part of welcoming a new baby into our lives, but it is not the most important part. At the end of the day, it's not the furnishings, but the loving and caring touch of family that will make lasting memories for years to come.

Happy Shopping