Decorating a nursery is an exciting time for parents-to-be, but it’s easy to fall into bad decorating habits that can compromise the safety and functionality of the space. Whether you’re designing a nursery for your first child or your fifth, there are some common decorating mistakes that you should avoid. In this article, we’ll explore some of the bad decorating habits that you must eliminate to create a safe, comfortable, and stylish nursery for your baby.
- Choosing Form Over Function: When designing a nursery, it’s important to remember that it’s not just about creating a pretty space. The room needs to be functional and practical for both you and your baby. Avoid sacrificing function for form, as this will make the room harder to use and maintain. For example, if you have limited space, it may be tempting to choose a large, ornate crib, but a smaller, more practical option may be a better choice.
- Overstimulating Decor: It’s important to create a calming and relaxing environment for your baby. Avoid using too many bright colors, bold patterns, or highly stimulating decor. Instead, opt for soft, neutral colors and simple patterns that won’t overwhelm your baby. This will help your baby to feel calm and secure in their new surroundings.
- Not Considering Lighting: Lighting is an important aspect of any room, but it’s especially important in a nursery. You’ll want to have both natural and artificial light sources in the room. Avoid using harsh overhead lighting, as this can be too bright for your baby. Instead, use softer, ambient lighting such as table lamps, wall sconces, or dimmer switches. Consider adding blackout curtains or shades to help create a dark and quiet environment for nap time and bedtime.
- Not Thinking About Storage: A nursery can quickly become cluttered with baby gear and supplies. Make sure to incorporate plenty of storage options into your design, such as shelves, drawers, and closets. This will help keep the room organized and tidy, which is especially important when you’re sleep-deprived and running on little time.
- Ignoring Safety: The safety of your baby should be your top priority when designing a nursery. Make sure to follow safety guidelines when selecting furniture, bedding, and decor. For example, use a firm and flat mattress in the crib, and avoid placing any soft objects, such as pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals, in the crib. Also, make sure to secure any loose cords, cover electrical outlets, and anchor furniture to the wall to prevent tipping.
- Not Planning for Growth: Your baby will grow quickly, and their needs will change as they do. When designing a nursery, it’s important to plan for their future needs as well. Consider choosing furniture that can grow with your child, such as a convertible crib that can be transformed into a toddler bed. This will save you money and help you avoid having to completely redecorate the room as your child gets older.
- Going Overboard on Themes: Themes can be a fun way to decorate a nursery, but it’s easy to go overboard. Avoid using too many theme-related items, as this can make the room feel cluttered and overwhelming. Instead, use subtle theme accents such as a patterned crib sheet or wall art that can easily be changed as your child grows and their interests change.
- Neglecting Your Own Needs: Finally, don’t forget to consider your own needs when designing the nursery. You’ll be spending a lot of time in the room, so it’s important to make it a space that you enjoy as well. Incorporate comfortable seating, such as a glider or rocker, and add some personal touches such as family photos or artwork that you love.