Every single one of us wants our baby’s nursery to be adorable. For many, it’s part of the experience of new motherhood, especially once those nesting instincts kick in toward the end of pregnancy. But every experienced mama knows that when it comes to raising kids, function always comes before form. No matter how stylish you are or how well you’ve curated your baby’s aesthetic, you’ll eventually realize that convenience and ease are paramount to making your days with a baby as enjoyable as possible.
Not to mention that most of us don’t have the money to splurge on high-end nursery items exquisitely designed for both functionality and visual appeal. We have to make it work and do the best we can within our budgets.
With that in mind, we teamed up with influencer and toddler mom Miyaeva Renae, who has totally mastered creating the simple but stylish look in all areas of her life, including for her baby. Here, she’s sharing her top 10 tips for creating a stylish but still functional nursery.
- Keep it neutral but cozy. I love a soft base (greens, creams, light colors, light wood) and then layering blankets, toys, or little pops of color so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.
- Choose furniture that does double duty. A dresser that’s also the changing table or a crib that grows into a toddler bed = less buying later and more room now.
- Use all the baskets + bins. You literally can’t have too many. Diapers in one, toys in another, and blankets in a big basket by the crib. Keep it looking put together without stressing about clutter.
- Choose easy-clean everything! Sheets, rugs, slipcovers … if it’s not washable, it doesn’t belong in a nursery. Cute and realistic.
- Select lighting that sets the mood. A dim lamp, soft nightlight, or even a salt lamp makes late night feeds way easier and the whole room feels calming.
- Use the walls!! Add floating shelves for books, little hooks for swaddles, or even a hanging organizer for quick-grab stuff. Saves floor space and looks cute.
- Your corner matters too! Choose a cozy chair, small side table, and maybe a basket with snacks and water for you. Night feeds are a lot easier when you’re comfortable.
- Textures > clutter. Instead of cramming it with décor, add texture to your baby’s nursery with a rug, curtains, or knit blanket. It still feels styled without being “too much.”
- Hide the mess in style! A cute hamper, storage ottoman, or lidded baskets help to minimize visual clutter, something that tends to add to the overstimulation factor for both mom and baby. Put things out of sight but not out of reach.
- Keep it pretty but safe. Anchored furniture, cordless blinds, and soft rugs are all great for functional safety. And if you pick the right pieces, they can still look aesthetic, even on a Target budget.
