Designing a nursery allows you to celebrate and prepare for your little one’s forthcoming arrival. It’s a space for you to imagine what life will be like once they’re here—a room where dreams are nurtured, playtime is a priority, and sweet sleep is (hopefully) easy to come by.
But where to start? Read on for Harbor’s guide to designing your perfect nursery, addressing everything from wall colors to airflow.
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1. Location, location, location
If your home gives you some choice in where your nursery will go, select a room closer to your bedroom though ideally not sharing a wall! This will make late-night wakings more manageable. Pay attention to ventilation and natural light sources in the room. An overhead fan can maintain a comfortable temperature and contribute to soothing white noise, while having a natural light source that can be blacked out during naps and nighttime will help with baby’s sleep-wake cycles.
2. Choose your colors
Soft, neutral colors like blue, green, or warm pastels can provide a tranquil atmosphere. When selecting paint, look for low or no-VOC (volatile organic compound) varieties, which are better for baby’s health.
In addition to designing your walls, think about adding rugs to the nursery’s flooring. Dense rugs can dampen sounds, creating a more sleep-friendly environment.
3. Select your furniture
You’ll want a sturdy crib that meets current safety standards with an adjustable mattress height.
A rocking chair or glider will come in handy during late-night feedings and bedtime routines. You can also find dressers with an integrated changing table on top that allow you to conserve space while also ensuring that baby’s essentials are easily accessible.
4. Stay organized
Parents are always shocked by how much stuff babies can have despite being so small! Installing shelves, cubbies, and bins will help you keep clothing, toys, books, and blankets organized and easier to find.
5. Choose your bedding
Think safety first when choosing bedding. Start with a firm mattress that fits snugly in the crib with no gaps around the edge. As parents ourselves, we love Newton Living mattresses! Look for fitted crib sheets made from breathable materials like cotton, and ensure that it’s snug on the mattress. You shouldn’t have any loose fabric bunching up.
DO NOT USE blankets, pillows, and crib bumpers, especially for newborns, as they pose suffocation hazards.
6. Make it personal
Hang family photos, drawings, or even a mobile to make baby’s nursery feel warm and inviting.
Don’t underestimate the impact of soft lighting, either. Installing a dimmer switch or using a gentle nightlight can aid late-night diaper changes and feedings, maintaining a soothing atmosphere that allows baby to go back to sleep a bit more easily.
7. Put safety first
Your nursery should be fully baby-proofed. Secure furniture to the wall to prevent tipping, keep cords and blinds out of reach, and cover all electrical outlets.
8. Invest in a reliable baby Monitor and support with Harbor
Harbor’s baby monitor restores sleep and sanity during a time with neither. Our baby monitor comes with an integrated care team at your fingertips to help you and your little one get as much sleep as possible.
Settle in for sweet dreams
At Harbor, our team is here to help you and your family get better, more restful sleep. For your little one, that starts in their nursery. Our infant care experts are one text away and can offer guidance to help you and baby find the rest you need to thrive, whether through tools to encourage self-soothing or recommendations for a nightlight.
