There are so many options for baby gear out there that it can be a little overwhelming when you’re shopping for your first nursery. If you’re a minimalist, on a budget or just lacking the space, check out this list of nursery must-haves.

1. Changing Station

Changing stations are a necessity in a nursery but you don’t need to have a changing table. You can use a short dresser that can double as storage. Make sure your changing station is stocked with diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream, a thermometer, extra onesies, lotion and hand sanitizer. Here’s another helpful tip: attach a lingerie laundry bag to the changing station and use it for tiny, dirty socks. When it is time to do a load of baby laundry, toss the bag in with it. This will ensure that those miniature socks don’t end up lost in the laundry.

2. Crib

This is kind of a no-brainer, but there are a lot of things to consider when choosing a crib. You need to make sure it’s sturdy and reliable. Decide if you want a crib that will later convert into a toddler bed, because that can certainly come in handy. Choose the right crib for your baby based on functionality, style, safety and budget.

3. Storage

Babies come with a lot of stuff. Make sure you have storage to handle all of that baby gear. Besides using a dresser as a changing table, you can put shelving on the walls to hold books and toys. Use a closet in the nursery to hold clothing your baby will grow into, your stock of diapers and wipes, and any baby gear that isn’t in use. Find plastic containers that will slide under the crib and use them to hold sheets and blankets.

4. Extra Sheets

When it’s three in the morning and your newborn has an explosive diaper, you’ll be glad you kept extra sheets in the nursery. You don’t want to have to search through your linen closet half asleep. The trick is to change your baby and the sheets as quickly as possible so that both of you can get back to sleep.

5. Rocker or Glider

Some of the sweetest moments you’ll have as a new parent will be rocking your baby to sleep. Pick out a comfy glider or rocking chair and set it up in the corner of your nursery. Savor those few months when your baby is tiny enough to rock to sleep. Plus, it’s nice to have a place to sit during a midnight feeding.

6. Nightlight

Some parents want their baby to sleep with a nightlight on and some don’t. A soft light to turn on at night is good for when you need to change a diaper or rock your baby back to sleep. Put it beside or above your changing station. You won’t be sorry!

7. White Noise Machine

A white noise machine will help your baby sleep better. While you’re vacuuming or when your dog barks, a white noise machine will muffle the sounds so your baby stays asleep. If you’re on a tight budget, consider using a fan you already have instead of purchasing a new white noise machine.

8. Curtains

You need blackout curtains or dark window shades in your nursery. These will help during the day when it’s naptime.

9. Swaddle

Some babies love being swaddled and some hate it, but either way it’s good to have a swaddle blanket in the nursery, just in case. Find one that your baby won’t escape from like the Ollie Swaddle, which uses Velcro and a very breathable material, or the SwaddlePod.

10. Humidifier

Humidifiers put moisture back into dry air, especially in the winter when you’re running the heat. Baby skin is sensitive, and babies are susceptible to congestion and colds. A humidifier will help bring moisture and healing to chapped and dry skin, as well as help your baby breathe easily.

11. Nursing Station

If you plan on breastfeeding your child, set up a nursing station in the nursery. You should also consider doing so in other main rooms of your house, such as the living room and your bedroom. Use a small basket to hold nursing pads, lanolin, tissues, water bottles, granola bars, burp cloths and maybe a book you’re reading. You’re pretty much stuck in one spot until your baby finishes nursing, so it’s good to have everything you need within reach.

12. Diaper Pail

There are certainly differing opinions on whether or not diaper pails actually work. Despite all of that, you at least need a trash can with a lid. Blocking some of the smell of dirty diapers means you don’t have to walk out to the garbage can 10 times a day. Do some research and decide what product is best for you.

13. Something for Your Baby to Look at

Studies show that babies respond best to high contrast colors. It helps their brain development and vision. Blacks, whites and reds are most appealing to babies. So get a mobile with contrasting colors and hang it above the crib. Consider black and white crib sheets or some artwork with high contrast colors.

14. Books

It’s never too early to start reading books to your baby. In fact, there will come a point when you aren’t quite sure what to do with your baby when he or she is awake. They aren’t playing with toys yet and they seem to just lie on a blanket and look around. Books in the nursery are a great option. Babies love the sound of mommy’s voice, and hopefully they’ll grow to love reading too!

15. Safe Surfaces

Babies love to feel different textures. A sheep or cow skin rug on the floor or over your glider will make the nursery a safe place to learn how to crawl and walk. Decorate it with pillows and cuddly stuffed animals. The nursery should be a great room for every stage. You’ll be spending a lot of time there, so create an atmosphere that both of you will love!