Article: No matter the size of your home—an apartment or house—your baby will need a place to sleep. You’ll also need a place to store baby supplies such as diapers and clothes.  Avoid worrying about the size of the space. Babies don’t take up a huge amount of space their first few months of life. Paint a separate room as a nursery or put up wall decals in the room or a space in an apartment. You can decorate with a gender-specific theme if you want, too. Remember to use non-toxic paint if you decide to use color in the room. Make sure the space has enough room for the bed you plan to use such as a bassinet, crib, or basket. Set aside some space in your kitchen or pantry for bottles and formula if you are using it. There are certain items you will definitely need in order to welcome your new baby home. You can purchase most items new or even at second hand stores. Having these ready before you give birth can help ensure that you have an easier and more relaxed transition to parenthood. Some of the items that you should definitely have are:  A federally-approved car seat. Crib, bassinet, or cradle with slats that are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart that meets current safety standards. Bedding such as a mattress and fitted sheets. Bottles, nipples, and bottle cleaners. Changing table or non-slip pad. Diapers. Diaper pail for soiled diapers. Receiving blanket(s). Changes of clothes including onesies. Washcloths and baby wipes.  Baby wash and shampoo. Different people and sources may suggest that you need all kinds of items for a baby. After buying essential items like a car seat and diapers, consider what other items you think you may need. Ask your doctor, friends and family if they have any suggestions. Some possible non-essential items are:  Support pillow for your baby. Keep in mind that this pillow is not for use when the baby is sleeping or in the crib or bassinet. Nursing supplies such as a nursing bra or nipple cream. Baby lotion. Toys to engage your baby. Separate diaper bag. Audio or video monitors. White noise machines. Rocker and ottoman. Most states will not let you leave the hospital with your newborn if you do not know how to use a federally-approved car seat. Before your baby’s birth, get used to placing the removing the seat from your car so that you can go home without any delay and be assured your baby is safe in their seat.  Follow LATCH when installing the seat. LATCH stands for “lower anchors and tethers for children.” It means attaching the seat’s anchors and tethers to the metal latches or hooks in the back of your car.  Read the instruction manual of your car seat before you start installing it. This can help ensure proper installation. Many hospitals or local police or fire departments will also check your car seat to make sure it's installed properly. Make sure the car seat is in the back seat facing backwards. Before you bring your baby home, you’ll want to make sure their space and anything that touches their delicate skin is clean. In the weeks before your due date and/or as you set up their room, wash anything that may come in contact with baby’s skin.  Use a gentle, baby-friendly detergent that is free of dyes and scents that may irritate skin.  Avoid fabric softener and dryer sheets as these can also irritate their skin. In the weeks before your due date, put together a bag of what items you may need in the hospital for yourself and your baby. Some things to include are:  A copy of your birth plan. Entertainment or soothing music. Comfortable clothing and footwear. Personal items such as pillows and bathing articles.  Diapers. Clothing for your baby. Camera. Important documents such as insurance cards and driver’s licenses. Although this may not be immediately necessary, your baby will grow quickly and get increasingly curious. Secure areas of your home that could potentially harm your baby, such as sharp corners or electrical outlets, before they become mobile to avoid possible accidents.  Remember that no device is completely babyproof.  Install safety latches and locks for cabinets and drawers in kitchens, bathrooms, and any other areas in your home. This can keep babies from gaining access to harmful items such as poisons, medications, and sharp objects.  Use safety gates in areas where your child could encounter dangers, such as the stairs.  Place doorknob covers and locks on entrances to rooms you don’t want your baby to enter.  Install anti-scalding devices on faucets and shower heads and set the water temperature to 120 degrees to prevent burns.  Use window guards and safety netting to minimize the risk of falls from windows or balconies.  Make sure each floor of your home has smoke detectors.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Set up a room or space for baby. Buy essential items. Consider non-essential items. Practice installing the car seat. Wash bedding and clothes. Pack your hospital bag. Babyproof your home.