Designing and organizing a baby nursery can be both exciting and stressful. With so many adorable items to choose from and so many things to consider, it’s easy to get lost in the details. I have helped countless clients organize and prepare their nurseries over the years. However, when it came time to organize my own for my first baby, it felt overwhelming! I had to pause and remind myself, that with the right plan, you can create a space that’s functional, cozy, and ready from the get-go!
Here are a few simple tips to help you organize a nursery that’s both beautiful and practical:
1. Categorize and Label Everything
When it comes to organizing baby items, it’s essential to break things down into categories. Keep diapers, wipes, and creams in one area; baby clothes in drawers or baskets; and toys and books in a separate spot. Labeling drawers and bins helps you find what you need quickly, especially during those late-night feedings or diaper changes. Separate clothing by size and type and add drawer dividers to make it easy for anyone in your household to follow. For example Short Sleeve Onesies 0-3, Long Sleeve Footed Onesie 0-3, Pajamas 0-3, and so on.
3. Maximize Vertical Space
If you’re working with a small room, take advantage of vertical space. Floating shelves, wall hooks, and hanging organizers can store items without cluttering the floor. This can help free up space for playtime and make the room feel bigger and more open. I installed an Elfa door rack on the back of our linen closet since my son’s room doesn’t have a closet. This helped to carve out space for his backstock items and bathtime routine.
4. Stock Up, But Keep It Simple
While it’s tempting to buy everything under the sun for your baby, remember that simplicity is key. Stock up on essential items, like diapers, wipes, and a few outfits, but avoid overstuffing drawers and closets with things you don’t need right away. Babies grow fast, so try to keep things organized with room for future growth.
5. Prepare for future editing
Babies grow quickly, so size changes often come sooner than expected. Labeling bins by size in advance saves time and stress. For example, fold 3-6 month clothes and place them in a labeled bin. When it’s time to switch, remove the newborn and 0-3 month clothes, re-label the bin, and repeat the process for each size. This makes swapping clothes easy and fast every few months!
With these simple organizational tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a nursery that’s as functional as it is stylish. Enjoy this exciting time, and remember to keep it practical—it’s the best way to ensure you’re ready for all the joys and challenges of new parenthood!
