Simple Nursery Decorating Tips For First-Time Parents
Welcoming a new baby into your home is an exciting milestone, even more so for first-time parents. You probably want the best for your little one, particularly a dedicated space where they can grow and thrive. While most parents want a nursery, designing it can feel overwhelming when you have no experience.
Space constraints are no longer a problem in the US, despite the skyrocketing real estate prices. According to Axios, Americans have more spare rooms than ever, making it easy to create a space for new members and guests. Locations like Salt Lake City, Memphis, and Atlanta have 12% extra rooms and Los Angeles and New York City have 7% extra.
If you have that extra space, you can go ahead with dressing it up. Most parents do it well before their bundle of joy arrives. However, for a first-timer, choosing the right theme and design may sound tricky. In this article, we will share a few practical nursery decor tips to help.
Start with a Budget
Setting up a nursery can be expensive, but it can be done within budget. According to Our Freaking Budget, a budget of $400 is all you need to plan a nursery without breaking the bank. This includes the basics like a crib, mattress, dresser, rug, changing pad, and changing pad cover.
A few pieces of advice to follow is to focus on must-haves like a crib, changing table, and storage solutions. At the same time, skip unnecessary and fancy fixtures and gadgets. Consider purchasing gently used furniture or buying from thrift stores. You may even accept hand-me-downs from friends and family. Remember to check for safety recalls on older items.
If you have a small budget, repurposing furniture can help you save money. Opt for versatile colors and themes that grow with your child and do not require frequent upgrades.
Think Beyond Pink and Blue
The Spruce notes that traditional color schemes like pink and blue are no longer the norm for baby rooms. Instead, non-gendered color schemes, neutral materials, and neutral palettes are popular these days. You should steer clear of mass-produced dictates of pink and blue, and explore creative alternatives.
When it comes to color palettes, experiment with options like soft greens, yellows, or even muted tones like beige and gray. You can also create accent walls with a bright color or pattern. Just search for “painters near me” to get expert advice and a good paint job within the desired timeframe and budget.
EA Pro Painters recommends working with professionals to take care of preparation, painting, and cleanup. No matter how enticing a DIY job sounds, it isn’t something expecting parents should do. Working with paints can tire you out and may not be safe during pregnancy.
Besides colors, consider gender-neutral themes like animals, nature, or space. You can also add extra pops of color with vibrant accessories like rugs, cushions, or wall art. These items can brighten up a neutral room without overwhelming the space.
Balance Aesthetics and Functionality
As a rule, a nursery should be as practical as it is beautiful. New parents may not have an idea about this because they do not know the challenges or requirements they might come across. A little advice can take you a long way.
For example, you can invest in multifunctional furniture that looks good and serves more than one purpose. A crib that converts into a toddler bed and a changing table that doubles as a dresser are good picks. Add an armchair with a side table to ease your feeding sessions during the early months.
Do not overlook storage as you will need a lot of it for your little one. Smart storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and shelves are great for organizing things while keeping them accessible. Install dimmable lights or soft wall lamps for nighttime feedings and comfort.
Prioritize Safety
Safety should be a priority when designing your baby’s nursery. Crib safety is the first thing to consider as falls are common among little ones. WebMD notes that babies are at risk as they learn to climb, roll, and walk. With the right precautions, falls can be prevented, and the nursery is a good place to start.
When you buy a crib, ensure the crib meets current safety standards with no drop sides. You can seek recommendations from seasoned parents to buy the right product. Also, opt for a firm mattress and avoid loose bedding. Anchoring furniture pieces like bookshelves and dressers to the wall can prevent tipping accidents.
Choking hazards are also real for babies and toddlers. You can prevent these by keeping small items out of reach and using cord covers for blinds or curtains. Opt for low-VOC paints and avoid furniture made with harmful chemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should you plan to set up a nursery?
The answer depends on your personal preference. Some parents do it at the start of the pregnancy while others wait until the end. Ideally, this should be done during the second trimester of pregnancy. You get ample time to shop, assemble furniture, and make adjustments before your bundle of joy arrives.
Is a colorful nursery good for babies?
As a first-time parent, you will love the idea of having a vibrant space ready to welcome your little one. A colorful nursery is also good for babies as bright hues stimulate a baby’s vision and cognitive development. However, remember to balance vibrant accents with soothing tones to create a calming atmosphere.
How to avoid safety risks for a newborn?
Bringing a baby home is often scary for new parents as there are many visible and obscure safety risks. However, most of them can be avoided with some practical measures. Ensure good air quality and contamination-free water in your home. Use non-toxic paints and materials in the nursery. Avoid placing the crib near windows or heavy decor items. You must also securely anchor furniture to avoid trip-overs. Keep cords, small objects, and choking hazards out of reach.
Designing your baby’s nursery is an opportunity to create a space that reflects your style. It also meets your child’s needs and makes you happy as a parent. You can craft a beautiful and practical room with these actionable tips. As you choose the decor of your nursery, remember that it should grow alongside your little one.
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