Your newborn will be sleeping in your bedroom to start with, so here’s how to create a shared space that’s practical and attractive
Did you know that your baby should sleep in your room for the first six months to reduce the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome)?
If you’ve set up a nursery already, your baby can sleep in your bedroom while you use the nursery for nappy changing, dressing and daytime feeding. But if you don’t have a nursery and your bedroom is on the small side, finding places for baby’s bed and other essentials can be a challenge.
However, with some clever storage solutions and smart organisation, you can create a functional and attractive nursery area for your little one. Here’s how.
Keep it simple
When designing your baby's space, try to keep things simple. Look on Pinterest for inspiration, but don’t be tempted to fill the room with unnecessary accessories that take up valuable room (giant soft toy, anyone?). Furniture-wise, think cot and changing unit plus nappy bin. Focus on creating a calm and peaceful environment that is conducive to sleep and relaxation: a night light is a must for dimly lit, sleepy night feeds.
Choose the best bed for baby
The most important step is to choose the right cot. Many parents start off with a lightweight Moses basket with folding stand, which is easy to move next to your bed or downstairs for daytime naps. Some Moses baskets come with a rocking stand, perfect for soothing baby to sleep.
Bedside cribs which attach to your bed at the same level are another great option for the early days. You can open the mesh side with a zip, making it easy to reach baby for night-time feeds without getting out of bed. And at 3am when you’re sleep-deprived, that’s a very big deal…
If you have enough space, you could opt for a convertible cot bed which can be transformed into a toddler bed as your child grows.
Make the most of storage
Storage is key in a small space, so look for creative ways to make the most of it. If there’s space under the cot, use an underbed pull-out box to store blankets and other bedding (check the cot measurements before you buy). A hanging organiser on the back of the door is the perfect place for your baby’s shoes, hats, and other accessories. ‘Use storage bins or baskets to keep soft toys and other items contained,’ says professional home organiser Emma George (@homeorganisewithemma). ‘Teeny-tiny clothes get lost in drawers, so I like to use drawer dividers to separate everything neatly. You can fit much more in that way, too!’
Get creative with furniture
Look for a changing unit with drawers or shelves so you can use it to store your nappy changing gear, but if you already have a chest of drawers, simply top it with a changer. To save space and money, choose a universal changer that fits on top of any cot. Once you’ve sorted the practicalities, treat yourself to some finishing touches. A cute rug next to the cot helps to distinguish baby’s space from yours and keeps your feet warm at night, while a small lamp creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
Use wall space
One of the best ways to save space in a small nursery area is by making the most of the walls. Install shelves or wall-mounted baskets to store nappies, wipes, and other baby bits and pieces. A hanging organiser on a sturdy hook will hold clothes, toys, and accessories, keeping them off the floor and out of the way. Wall space can also be used to hang artwork or bunting to add a cute touch to the nursery area.
