Your baby's nursery should be meaningful to you and choosing a theme is the first step. Since the crib will become the focal point of the nursery, the bedding you select will provide the inspiration for the entire room. A coordinating bumper, decorative quilt, crib sheets and bed skirt are key pieces for creating your theme and keeping baby safe and warm. Consider mounting your quilt on the wall with quilt clips to create a beautiful design element.

CONSIDER MULTIPLES

Crib sheets, a waterproof mattress pad and plenty of blankets are essential when you have a new baby in the house. We recommend up to four different crib sheets. Not only will multiple sheets allow you to mix and match, they will also keep you prepared for numerous changes through the week. Having at least two mattress pads will help ensure the crib mattress is always clean and dry. As for blankets, you should have at least four on hand to keep baby warm wherever you go, inside or out.

THEME COMPLEMENTS

Easy-to-add details such as rugs, window panels and wall colour can provide warmth and further enhance your nursery theme. You'll also want to select pbk window panels to help provide the nursery with privacy and to keep out sunlight at nap time. Using a combination of a heavier panel such as corduroy or denim, and a light sheer will block out light while still complementing your nursery theme. Using pbk wall stencils or appliqués can also help add a personal touch.

Now that you have chosen a theme, the next step is to select your nursery furniture. The most important pieces when creating a nursery are a crib, a changing table and a rocker to help soothe your baby during feedings. Select a finish that will complement your nursery's colours and theme, and when deciding on a crib, consider one that converts to a toddler bed when the time comes. Several pbk cribs feature conversion kits. Place the crib away from any windows to reduce drafts and noise, and don't forget you'll need a waterproof crib mattress to complete your crib. When selecting a changing table, again consider a style that converts as your baby gets older. Pottery Barn Kids offers changing tables that easily transform to become roomy dressers or shelving units. Place the changing table adjacent to the crib to help make changing baby fast and simple. Be sure to think about a changing table pad and at least two extra covers for baby's comfort.

THE EXTRAS

There are other functional furniture pieces to consider as you set up your nursery. A versatile dresser serves as a great storage place for little shirts, pj's and socks, and it will certainly be useful as your child grows older. You may also want to think about a side table or nightstand next to your rocker for bottles, blankets or storybooks as you rock your little one to sleep.

Nursery accessories, whether functional or decorative, should add your signature to the environment you are creating. Pottery Barn Kids offers many accessories to help you in adding the final touches to your nursery.

FUNCTIONAL ACCESSORIES

Lighting and storage are important functional accessories. Gentle lighting creates a pleasing environment for your baby, so consider a floor lamp and nightlight for changes and late-night check-ins. Storage is also very important to think about when setting up your nursery. Baskets, hampers and shelving help organize all the necessities within the nursery. Consider using baskets or bins to store daily supplies, treasured mementos and clothing. A hamper and extra liners help with bed and clothing changes, and wall shelves offer convenient storage that's out of baby's reach.

DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

Frames, wall letters and artwork add character and personality to your nursery. Use them for family photos, baby's birth certificate or to write a name across the wall. Cherished heirlooms and mementos have a special place in your nursery, so add them as your final touch.

SIGHTS & SOUNDS

Whether it's nap time or nighttime, babies love music to lull them to sleep. Consider a musical mobile which can also serve as a point of visual reference to help your baby become familiar with and comfortable in the crib.

Before your baby is even walking, classic toys like our PBK blocks are safe and stimulating. Plush or rocking toys also have a place in the nursery. While your baby is too young to engage, these toys will add a whimsical touch to the nursery until it's time for play. As your baby grows, consider our soft-sided toys for a safe, tactile experience. A toy chest is the perfect storage solution for toys and books, and Pottery Barn Kids' toy chests come equipped with safety hinges that gradually close to protect little fingers from getting pinched.

THE EXTRAS

Before you know it, your little one will be walking. Thinking ahead and be prepared with toys will make this transition easier and more enjoyable. Interactive toys are great for stimulation. Consider other toys that engage your child's creativity and imagination.

Aside from the nursery, the bath is the most important room to think about for safety and comfort. A bath mat and plenty of towels are key items for bath time. It's also a good idea to have an extra laundry hamper in the bath to keep baby's items separate from yours when it's time to do laundry. Consider storage solutions for extra towels or bathroom supplies and a mounted towel or peg rack for drying wet towels.

You'll soon find that all the rooms in your home have a role in your new life as a family. Remember to keep plenty of supplies and blankets for swaddling within easy reach. Your first years with baby should be a wonderful experience, and we hope that being prepared will help you enjoy this delightful and precious time.