Where To Splurge and Where To Save On Your Nursery
Where To Splurge and Where To Save On Your Nursery
Decorating your baby’s nursery can be an exciting project. From paint colors to cribs, there are so many opportunities to be creative in your little one’s new space. Luckily, a beautiful nursery doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Below, we break when to splurge and when save when decorating your little boy or girl’s nursery.
Where to Splurge
Personalized details
Custom art and décor creates a personalized space for you and your little one. Personal touches can be more costly, but the right pieces can grow with your baby and be integrated into his or her nursery decor for years to come.
The Mattress
Most crib mattresses are used for three years, so it makes sense to spend a few extra dollars on a good mattress. There are standards that crib mattresses must meet, so find one that’s been certified by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. A crib mattress should fit snugly and securely, with no more than two fingers fitting between the crib and mattress.
Crib Sheets
Your baby’s sheets will receive a lot of wear and tear (especially during the first few months when your little one should be sleeping up to 20 hours), so you’ll want ones that are made to last. Plus, sheets don’t have to grow with your child as they will likely be sleeping on their first mattress for a few years. Find a set of sheets that you love that will stay intact as your baby grows.
A Rocker or Glider
You’ll have more than a few sleepless nights during the first few months of your baby’s life, so having a comfy place to sit will make those middle-of-the-night feedings a whole lot easier. Choose a chair that not only suits your nursery style, but is one that you’ll look forward to sitting in. A versatile glider can even make a great addition to your family’s living room or common space for when baby gets older and you’re making less frequent trips to the nursery.
Where to Save
The Walls
Most parents have grand plans when it comes to nursery paint ideas. Decorating the walls can be one of the most inexpensive parts of the nursery and whether it’s paint, wallpaper, decals or a combination, a little goes a long way.
From Dr. Seuss to Peter Rabbit, the theme of your baby’s nursery can be brought to life, even on a budget. Use the nursery paint as a foundation upon which you can add art, layer textures, and place accent furniture or storage pieces, like floating shelves or built-in bookcases.
The Crib
Safety is the most important feature to look for in a crib--beautiful colors and unique styles are just an added bonus. Fortunately, a safe crib doesn’t have to break the bank. Cribs that meet the guidelines of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission or the National Institutes of Health are available in all price ranges. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association certifies cribs that meet its safety guidelines, so keep an eye out for a JPMA certification when shopping.
Once you’ve narrowed down your selection based on the products’ safety features, look for a style that fits the theme of your baby’s nursery. Some cribs have a more modern feel, while others are more traditional. For furniture that will grow as your baby grows, shop for a convertible crib, which can transition into a toddler bed, daybed, and full size bed, with the proper equipment.
The Bedding
Although pretty blankets and fluffy pillows are fun to pick out and add character to your nursery, the American Academy of Pediatrics states that for SIDS prevention, no bumpers or blankets should be used in the crib. Instead, choose swaddles with bold colors and your favorite characters to wrap your baby in while he or she sleeps.
The Storage
Baby-sized stuff can make a big mess, so don’t underestimate the importance of storage. Shelving and cubby furniture are cost-efficient and versatile ways to store your baby’s books and toys. Not only is wall shelving a practical storage solution, but it also serves as a way to display photos or decorative items. Cubbies provide flexibility, allowing you to interchange drawers of different colors and sizes.
It’s exciting to see your nursery decor ideas come to life, but remember that a safe nursery is just as important as a stylish one. New and expectant parents can find nursery safety tips here.
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