The arrival of a baby brings with it many changes, and decorating the nursery is an important part of that. It is not only a place where your little one sleeps, but also a space where you change diapers, put on clothes and spend time together. It is therefore important that the room is both practical and safe, and of course also has a nice, cozy atmosphere. With this extensive guide, we help you step by step in creating the perfect nursery.
The Basics: A Safe Place to Sleep
The sleeping area is the heart of the nursery. Because your baby spends a lot of time sleeping in the first few months, it is crucial to pay extra attention to this.
- The bed or cradle
Choose a firm crib or cot with a mattress that fits perfectly. There should be no gap between the mattress and the edge of the bed, so that your baby cannot get stuck. A crib can be useful in the first months because of its cozy dimensions, while a cot is a durable choice that will last for years. - Keep the bed empty
Although it is tempting to put soft blankets, stuffed animals and head protectors in the crib, it is safer not to do this. Instead, use a baby sleeping bag, which will keep your baby warm without the risk of suffocation. - The right place in the room
Do not place the crib near cords or other loose objects. This prevents your baby from pulling on them or getting tangled in them.
Safe Furniture for the Nursery
The furniture in the baby room should be sturdy, stable and practical. Consider the following tips:
- Changers and cabinets: A changing table is a must-have for changing and dressing your baby. Choose a model with ample storage space so that you can always have diapers, wipes and clothes within reach. Make sure the changing table is securely attached to the wall to prevent tipping.
- Avoid sharp edges: Choose furniture with rounded corners or use corner protectors to prevent injuries.
- Low and stable furniture: Place heavy items on low shelves and ensure that cupboard doors or drawers are secured with child-proof locks.
A Healthy Indoor Climate: Avoid Toxic Substances
Your baby is extra sensitive to harmful substances, so it is important to create a healthy indoor climate.
- Use safe paint: Paint the baby's room with water-based paint that is specially approved for use in children's rooms. For example, choose paint with the EU Ecolabel. Do this well before the birth, so that the room can air well and all odors have disappeared.
- Ventilation is essential: Ventilate the room daily, especially if you have installed new furniture or carpeting. This helps remove harmful substances and dust particles from the air.
- Wash new fabrics: New sheets, curtains and clothes may contain residues from the production process. Therefore, wash them before using them. Use a mild detergent without perfume to prevent skin irritation.
Practical Tips for a User-Friendly Nursery
A baby room should not only be beautiful, but also be furnished in a practical way. This makes your daily routine a lot easier.
- Everything within reach: When changing, you never want to have to run away to get something. Make sure you have a fixed place for diapers, wipes and spare clothes. You can organize these in handy baskets or drawers.
- Smart lighting: Install a dimmable night light. This soft light is perfect for nighttime feedings and minimizes sleep cycle disruption.
- Storage: A baby’s room can quickly become cluttered. Baskets, bins and cabinets help keep toys, clothes and toiletries organised. This keeps the room tidy and uncluttered.
Additional Safety Tips for the Baby Room
In addition to the furniture and basic furnishings, there are a number of other things to consider when it comes to baby room safety.
- Protect electrical outlets: Use electrical outlet protectors to prevent curious fingers from getting into electrical outlets.
- Hide cords: Cords from lamps, baby monitors, and other devices should be hidden from your baby’s sight and reach. This prevents your baby from pulling on them or getting tangled in them.
- Fire safety: Make sure the baby's room has a smoke detector and do not use candles or other flammable decorations in the room.
The Finishing Touch: Make it Cozy
The nursery is not only a practical space; it is also a place where you want to spend nice moments together. With a few personal touches you can make the room complete.
- Calming colours: Choose soft, natural colours such as pastel blue, mint green or sand tones. These colours have a calming effect and create a pleasant atmosphere in the room.
- Nice decoration: A nice poster on the wall, a mobile above the bed or a soft rug can add a lot of atmosphere. Make sure that decoration is safe and out of reach of your baby.
- Personal details: Make the room unique by placing a birth announcement, a cuddly toy or a photo of the family. This gives the room a warm and personal look.
Final Check: Is Everything Safe and Ready?
When you think the room is all set, take some time to do a final check. Look at the space from your baby’s perspective and ask yourself:
- Could dangerous situations arise, such as entrapment or falling furniture?
- Is everything securely attached and child-safe?
- Is the room clean, tidy and free of loose items?
Make your baby's room a dream place!
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