The best choice for your newborn is a Moses basket, cradle, bassinet, or a carriage with a bassinet; some carriages like this convert to strollers for use when the baby is able to support herself sitting up. Your baby will outgrow baskets or cradles quite quickly, so don’t waste money on an expensive one unless you’re sure you can afford it. When your baby outgrows her bassinet or cradle, you’ll need a full-sized crib. Choose one with side rails that are set closely together – a distance of no more than 2 ⅜ inches (6 centimeters) is suitable – and drop sides so you can lift your baby out easily. The mattress should fit snugly, so your baby can’t get her arm or her leg, or even her head, trapped down the side. The crib will last you until your baby is big enough to climb out, when you’ll need to buy a bed – at about two or two and a half years, or 36 inches tall. The crib mattress should be a firm foam type, with air holes that allow your child to breathe if she turns over onto her front while asleep. Portable cribs are very useful for going on vacation or taking your baby out for the evening. They have fabric sides and are collapsible so they can be carried easily.

Because a young baby can’t regulate her body temperature effectively, you should use a cotton sheet and thermal blankets for the crib so you can easily add one or take one away.

Once she is a year old, a comforter will be suitable. Check the label on any bedding you buy to make sure that it is flameproof and conforms to current safety standards.