To make a nursery that is functional as well as aesthetically pleasing, you will need a few items:

1. Bassinet- When baby is first born, a crib can be a bit overwhelming. A bassinet is better for the first few months, because it can be either picked up and moved, or rolled into another room. Your baby will feel safer in a smaller home at first.
2. Crib- After baby is a couple months old, a good wooden crib can be used. Be certain that if you buy the crib from a friend or family member, that there is only small gaps between the slats of the crib. The spaces between the slats should not be more than 2 3/8 inches. This is so baby doesn't inadvertently stick his or her legs, arms, and head between the slats. If the crib is older, make sure that if it is painted, it doesn't have lead based paint. Lead based paint has been shown to cause brain damage. Lead based paint was not to be used after 1978 in homes, but recently some toys manufactured in China were recalled due to being painted with lead based paint. Lead paint in itself is not dangerous, but when the paint begins to chip and deteriorate, hazardous substances are emitted.
3. Bumper pad- This goes around the crib to keep baby from bumping his head or other tiny parts on the hard surface. There are many to choose from.
4. Crib sheets- Buy as many of these as you can, to cut down on laundry. Babies can go through many sheets in no time, so be prepared and stock up.
5. Diaper pail- The Diaper Genie is nice, but expensive. Any diaper pail will do.
6. Diaper stacker- Great for beside the bassinet or crib, to keep diapers within easy reach.
7. Changing table- Really comes in handy, especially when baby begins to squirm. Most changing tables have a strap to hold baby in place.
8. Rocking chair/glider rocker- A little expensive, but well worth it. It is soothing to baby, and relaxing to you to rock. It makes feeding baby easier.
9. Clothing drawer- A chest of drawers just for baby really comes in handy. When you are able to put baby clothes in separate drawers, it cuts down on the constant searching for socks, onesies, etc.You can out each major item in its own drawer, and know right away where they are.