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One of the most exciting things for an expected mother is creating the perfect nursery for their little one. I have to admit, that process did not go smooth with my firstborn. We had to room cleared out, ready to paint, furniture still in the boxes, and clothing still in packages. We had plans to finish the room that weekend, but our son had other plans. He decided to arrive 3 weeks early. So during the two nights I was in the hospital, my wonderful husband, along with my dad, put together the entire nursery. That’s right, I had to trust two men to create the nursery for my first-born child. I will admit, they didn’t do that bad (even completing most of tips below). I just wanted to make sure I could come home from the hospital with our new little boy with everything ready to go.

Now with baby #3 due in January, I am already planning out the nursery. I have not started it, simply for the fact that we are moving into our new house in December. But I am getting everything ready, boxes labeled to move into the room, and decorations all planned out. That way I can get the room up quick after we move in. If you are an expecting Mom, here are my top ten tips for creating that perfect nursery.

1.  Decorations – Pick a theme for the nursery. I think it is easier to pick bedding first and go from there, since bedding options are more limited than other décor. Stick to light soft colors to keep the room relaxed and calm.

2.  Crib – The crib is the center and focal point of a nursery. Research cribs before you purchase one. There have been many recalls on cribs and you want to make sure you get a safe one. Also read reviews online and get opinions from current or former crib owners. I suggest getting a three-in-one convertible crib. These go from crib, to toddler bed, to daybed. This way you get a longer life out of it.

3.  Changing Table – When we got our first changing tables, we just got what matched the crib. After owning one, I recommend getting one that does not have railing around the time. After just a few months, your baby will be too big to lie on. Also get one with storage.

4.  Portable Changing Station – Put together a small carrying tote with a handful of diapers, small package of wipes, A/D or similar cream, and a change of clothes. This is good to have if you are downstairs or across the house from the nursery. It makes it quick and easy to change the baby.

5.  Glider/Rocker – I used mine a lot. It is a must have to stay comfortable while holding or nursing your newborn. My son loved to be rocked when he was a newborn.

6.  Baby Proof – It’s good to get this out of the way before your little one is crawling and starting to get into everything, because it will happen before you know it. This includes using outlet covers, remove breakables that are lower to the ground, and ensure there are no exposed wires or cords.

7.  Hand Sanitizer – Keep hand sanitizer near the changing table. You can just get a small travel size one.

8.  Clean all Surfaces – Wipes down all the surfaces in the nursery. Make sure there is no dust on the ceiling fan if there is one. It is a good idea to change to green cleaning products that are made with natural ingredients that are safer.

9.  Clothing – Wash all the clothing for your newborn. Don’t forget to also wash the bedding, towels, and baby blankets. Pick a detergent that is baby-safe and for sensitive skin.

10.  Diapers/Wipes – Have diapers and wipes out where they are easily accessible from the changing table and then the rest stored in a drawer, on a shelf, or in a closet. Seventh Generation has Free & Clear chlorine-free disposable diapers and baby wipes that are perfect for newborns.

Preparing for a new addition to your family can be overwhelming and stressful. Make it fun and enjoyable and take baby steps when preparing your home and the nursery by doing it little at a time. Don’t wait until the last minute like we did the first time.

Seventh Generation has many products that are perfect for a home with a newborn from diapers to cleaning products. To learn more about Seventh Generation products, visit their website at www.seventhgeneration.com, ‘like’ them on Facebook , or follow them on Twitter. You can also sign up for their Rewards Program to get coupons and savings.

Disclosure: I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Seventh Generation blogging program, for a gift card worth $50. For more information on how you can participate, click here.