By: Let Mommy Sleep with tips from Jenn Zschunke from Moss Building & Design
Building a Safe Nursery
Decorating the nursery for your newborn baby, twins or triplets is a very exciting time for new parents. Choosing colors, themes, and other décor is a wonderful way to think about how you will connect with baby from the time they are born. While not always as fun to think about as décor though, the most important part of planning for baby is safety. The professionals from Moss Building & Design share how to create the nursery of your dreams that is also practical and safe here:
Toxic Fumes
- You should paint your nursery with low-odor interior paint, and do so early enough so any odors can fade. The same is a good idea with the nursery furniture. Put it together with plenty of time to spare and be sure that only non-toxic paint has been used.
- Air out the new crib mattress until baby needs to sleep there.
- Leave all furniture drawers open to air them out until needed.
- Consider hardwood flooring vs. carpeting to reduce dust and odors. Purchase an area rug that is sturdy and practical, as it will likely be a play area for tummy time.
Window Safety
- Childproof all nursery windows with window stops or window guards.
- Hang curtains or other wall dressings with properly secured materials, installing them into wall studs and/or with dry wall anchors. Never use tension rods!
- Secure blinds with long, exposed cords to reduce risk of strangulation.
Furniture
- Anchor all furniture to the walls to make sure it doesn’t tip over, including the changing table. Materials for this are very inexpensive but potentially life-saving. Be sure to anchor into wall studs.
- Consider floating shelves instead of bookcases.
- Cribs should have only a fitted sheet. No stuffed animals, breathable crib bumpers only and be set up following
American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines.
Odds and Ends
- Consider adding a ceiling fan, which has been shown to help reduce the risk of SIDS.
- Never hang a mobile too close to the crib, as little fingers can pull on them and potentially injure themselves.
- Childproof all electrical outlets with plastic outlet protectors.
- Avoid floor lamps, which can tip over or be pulled over.
- Install and regularly check smoke detectors.
- Install a baby monitor.
Peace of Mind
Having these safety measures in place will reassure you that your little one is secure, comfortable, and safe. With this in place, in conjunction with cute and sweet décor, you can rest easily!
Jenn Zschunke manages the Community Relations department at Moss Building & Design, leading the company’s philanthropic efforts in Northern Virginia as well as planning HandyMOM 101 workshops, educating and empowering women and mothers to tackle home improvement projects for themselves. To contact Jenn, please email her at jzschunke@mossbuildinganddesign.com or call 703.961.7707.
Best Northern Virginia Contractor
Did you know that not only was Moss Home Services just voted The Best Handyman 2017 by the readers of Arlington Magazine, but Moss Building and Design is also the reigning Best Remodeler?! Thank you so much for your support throughout the years, and we look forward to being your one stop shop for all your home improvement needs. If you are thinking of a home remodel, the professionals at MOSS are here to help. If you have general questions, call MOSS at 703.961.7707 or email Sales@MossBuildingandDesign.com.
