Even when funds are tight, it's possible to create a fun, practical, and engaging nursery for your little one. It takes creativity and a willingness to look for bargains. It's also helpful if you plan ahead, making a note of the items your baby needs, and those she can survive without.
Below, we'll offer a dose of inspiration to help you design a budget-conscious space for your little one that sparks her imagination. To be sure, buying a crib, changing table, bedding materials, and other products can be very expensive. We'll show you how to reduce the cost without sacrificing your infant's comfort.
Design The Nursery To Grow With Your Baby
The things your infant likes at two months will differ from those she enjoys at twelve months. And her tastes will change again by the time she reaches two years. Most new parents neglect to plan ahead, and thus end up redesigning their little one's room every couple of years. If you have the time and budget to do so, this may not pose a problem. Otherwise, design your baby's nursery to accommodate her as she grows.
First, paint simply. Rather than spending time with intricate stencil designs, murals, and other art, rely on ready-made banners and posters. Changing both down the road is less time-consuming and less costly.
Second, think about buying a dresser rather than a standalone changing table. Unless the table has other uses, you'll eventually need to throw it out. A dresser, on the other hand, can last for years. As long as its top is wide enough, you can use it for changing your infant (though you may need to make a few safety modifications). Purchasing a dresser is more costly upfront, but much less expensive over the long run.
Stock It With Slightly Used Baby Products
The thought of buying used items for your infant may seem unappealing at first. But keep in mind that babies grow so quickly that they only use such items for a short period. You can save hundreds of dollars purchasing a used crib, mattress, rocker, stroller, dresser, and many other products.
Where can you find used baby gear? Ask friends and family members who have already gone through this stage of parenting. There's a good chance they've placed some of these items in storage, and would welcome the opportunity to give them away. You can also check local garage sales, pawnshops, and swap meets.
An important side note regarding cribs, dressers, and changing tables: make sure they meet safety standards established by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Prioritize Simplicity And Usefulness
Your little one is unlikely to care about the types of decorations, toys, and furniture she has at her disposal. She's too young to know name brands, and won't be able to identify popular characters, such as Winnie the Pooh. This is a good opportunity to save money. If you're willing to avoid trendy products and instead, opt for less-expensive alternatives, you'll be able to stretch your budget much further.
Make two lists. On the first list, write down the items your baby needs for her nursery. This will include a crib (or bassinet), mattress, bedding supplies, and a baby monitor. It will also include a changing table (or dresser), diapering supplies, and a nightlight.
On the second list, write down the nonessential products you would like to buy for her. For example, a closet organizer, bouncy seat, and ottoman would make great additions to any nursery. So, too, would a mobile and baby swing.
By maintaining two distinct lists, you can focus on purchasing the essentials without the risk of spending your budget on unnecessary luxuries. If you have funds left over after buying the items on your first list, start working down the second.
You can design an engaging, comfortable, and safe nursery for your little one without spending a fortune. Brand names and trendy items are unnecessary. Remember, the most important element in your baby's life is you.
