Outfitting a baby nursery can seem like a daunting task, especially if it’s your first child. Fear not — we’ve compiled a few handy tips that will make decorating your baby’s room easy and fun. Above all, aim to finish your nursery early on so the weeks leading up to the arrival of your little one are as stress-free as possible.
Here are some things you should do to ensure your new baby’s nursery is as functional and safe as possible.
Invest in a good crib and nursing chair
These two items should be the focal points of the nursery. Don’t scrimp on the crib; buy new if possible and pick a model that meets Canadian safety standards. Moms and dads spend a lot of time in their nursing chairs so select one that is sturdy, comfortable and stain resistant. Nursing chairs can be stationary or feature a gliding mechanism, the latter being ideal for lulling fussy babies back to sleep.
Pick easy-to-clean materials
This includes rugs, drapery, bed linens and even your little one’s toys. Wool rugs are soft, durable and repel stains naturally. Cotton is a top pick since it’s machine-washable. And while shag rugs are plush underfoot (and tactile for babies), be aware that longer piles actually pose a choking hazard.
Use your dresser as a change table
Nurseries are often short on space, so why not make your furniture multifunctional? A comfy changing mat can easily convert the top of your dresser into the perfect swaddling station.
Install blackout drapes
For the first six weeks to three months, your baby’s sleep cycle will be pretty erratic. This is normal! However, since babies need lots of sleep throughout the night and day, be sure to invest in blackout drapes for nursery windows. While you’re at it, you might want to consider installing blackout drapes in your own bedroom – after all, tired moms and dads need rest, too.
Decorate the ceiling
Why not give your baby something nice to look at? Aside from a baby mobile, consider painting a delicate pattern of stars or geometric shapes above the crib to keep your little one entertained.
Now that you have a good idea of where to start when it comes to setting up the nursery, here are some things you should avoid.
Don’t go all out with gender-specific décor
Even if you know your baby’s sex, resist the urge to go overboard with blue or pink. Instead, stick to a calming, neutral palette (think lighter shades of grey, green, taupe and cream) that will suit your child even when they’re older. Besides, another baby may very well be in your future!
Don’t mistakenly choose toxic paints, furniture or textiles
Ensure your paint is water-based and visibly marked “Zero VOC”— meaning free from volatile organic compounds. Confirm with the manufacturer prior to purchasing that flooring and furniture hasn’t been finished with toxic treatments. And whenever possible, opt for rugs and drapery in natural fibres like wool, sisal, jute and cotton.
Don’t install harsh lighting
Babies’ eyes are extremely sensitive so you’ll want to be able to precisely adjust the lighting in your nursery. Overhead track lighting combined with standing and table lamps throughout the room will create a cozy but adjustable ambiance.
Don’t skimp on storage
Keeping clutter at bay is an important part of creating a safe, serene environment for your baby. Baskets, storage benches and wall-mounted cubbies are all great options for storing books, clothes and toys.
Don’t forget to baby-proof everything!
Pad sharp corners, secure tall furniture to prevent toppling and store any medications in a locked cupboard. Additional safeguards include tying drapery cords out of reach and covering exposed electrical outlets.
With these tips, you should be able to make those early weeks with your new baby as stressfree as possible, and concentrate on bonding and making lasting memories instead.
— Realtor.ca