Whether you’re short on space or just want to keep your little one close, a master bedroom nursery can be a fantastic solution.
Let’s chat about how to make this work without turning your bedroom into total chaos.
First Things First: Why a Master Bedroom Nursery?
Before we dive in, let’s quickly touch on why having a nursery in your bedroom might be a great option for you:
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that infants sleep in parents’ room, close to parents’ bed, ideally for the first year of life, but at least for the first six months.
- It’s perfect for small spaces or apartments.
- It makes those middle of the night feedings more convenient.
- Allows you keep a close eye on your newborn.
- It can be more cost effective than setting up a separate nursery.
Now, let’s get to the fun part – setting it all up!
The Essentials for a Master Bedroom Nursery
In a master bedroom nursery, maximizing every inch of space is crucial. The key to a successful nursery set up in your bedroom is creating zones. You’ll want:
- Baby’s sleep area
- A changing station
- A feeding area
- Smart storage solutions
Baby’s Sleep Area
When space is at a premium, you need a crib that doesn’t hog a lot of room. Here are some great compact crib options:
- Mini Cribs: these are smaller than standard cribs but still provide a safe sleeping space. The Babyletto Origami Mini Crib is a popular choice that folds for easy storage.
- Bassinets: perfect for newborns, these take up minimal space. The Halo BassiNest Swivel Sleeper is a favourite for its adjustable height and 360-degrees rotation.
- Co-Sleepers: these attach to your bed, allowing you sleep close to your baby, but with them on a separate surface designed for infants. The Arm’s Reach Concepts Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper Bassinet is a solid option.
- Convertible Cribs: while not always the smallest, these grow with your child. The Dream on Me Aden 4 in 1 Convertible Mini Crib is a compact but versatile option.
Changing Station
You don’t need a full-sized changing table. Consider:
- A dresser with a changing pad on top.
- A changing mat you can use on your bed or on a blanket of the floor.
- Portable changing station you can tuck away in a closet.
Feeding Area
If you’re breastfeeding, all you really need is a comfortable chair or even just some supportive pillows on your bed. If you’re bottle feeding, a small side table for supplies can be helpful.
Smart Storage Solutions
With a baby comes a lot of stuff. Here’s how to keep it all organized:
- Under-bed storage: use rolling boxes to store extra diapers, wipes, or clothes.
- Over-door organizers: great for small items like socks, hats, or toiletries.
- Drawer organizers: keep your dresser drawers tidy with small compartments for baby items.
- Closet organizers: keep open baskets in your closet to store baby items.
- Floating Shelves: Install these above the changing area for easy access to essentials.
Create a Soothing Environment
Setting up a master bedroom nursery is not just about functionality; it’s also about creating a peaceful environment for you and your baby.
- Lighting: soft, adjustable lighting is key for nighttime feedings and diaper changes. Consider a dimmable lamp or night light that provides just enough light.
- Sound Machine: a very powerful fan or a white noise machine can be help soothe your baby to sleep. It can also drown out household noises, so both of you can rest easier.
Keep It Safe
Safety is a top priority in any nursery setup. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Safe sleep space: ensure your baby’s crib or bassinet meets current safety standards. The mattress should be firm, and the crib/bassinet should be free of loose beddings, pillows, or stuffed animals.
- Baby proofing: as your baby grows and becomes more mobile, you’ll need to baby-proof your bedroom. Secure all heavy furniture to the wall, cover electrical outlets, and keep small objects out of reach.
5 Tips for Setting Up a Master Bedroom Nursery
1. Make Some Room
One of the best things you can do before baby arrives is purge your room. Anything that isn’t being used can be given away or moved somewhere else in your home.
Once you have some space set aside for baby’s things and have all the supplies you need, it’s time to figure out where everything will go.
2. Choose the Right Spot
The first step in setting up a nursery nook in your bedroom is deciding where it should be. Will it be in a corner, by your bed, or will you utilize a wall?
Make sure the crib is placed away from windows, curtains, and anything your baby could potentially reach as they grow – safety first!
3. Keep Decor Simple and Neutral to Match Your Space
You still want a space that feels like your sanctuary, even if you’re sharing it with your baby. Choose a colour scheme that complements your existing decor. Hang some adorable mobile or wall art above the crib. Use removable wallpaper to create an accent wall.
4. Repurpose Existing Furniture
Instead of adding extra furniture especially for baby, see what you already have and consider how you can use it a s a multifunctional piece.
5. Have Everything Set Up Before Bed
Fumbling around in the dark for your phone charger is no fun. Also, having your bed already to hop into before putting your baby to bed will minimize blanket rustling with baby sleeping. Have everything ready and easily accessible before you turn the lights out.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a nursery in your bedroom might seem challenging at first, but with a bit of creativity, and some planning you can create a cozy, functional space for both you and your little one.
Remember, this arrangement doesn’t have to be forever. It’s all about what works for you and your family right now. As your baby grows, you’ll likely transition them to their own room.
So, what do you think? Ready to carve out a cozy nook for your newest family member?
