The to-do list when preparing for a new baby can be quite long. Deciding where to store your baby’s new clothes, shoes, diapers, and other necessities is just one task but an important one to check off. We have created a guide with tips to help you organize and optimize your baby’s nursery space.
Use Totes for Items You Won’t Immediately Need
Preparing ahead for different baby sizes is usually a good idea. Yet, you don’t need to keep these items out as they can easily get in the way. Store six, nine, 12, 18, and 24 clothing items, each in their own bin. Write the size and clothing type in each storage bin so you can easily find them later.
Use Curtain Dividers
Sometimes, you’ll just be too tired from taking care of a newborn baby that you won’t want to clean up or put things away. Curtain dividers are a great way to separate a mess from the mind. Spend valuable time cuddling with your newborn and simply slide closed the curtain divider to remove the mess from your mind.
Curtain dividers also make an exceptional makeshift baby room. If you’re not yet ready for your new baby to sleep in their own room, consider sectioning off a part of your bedroom. This will make it easier to squeeze in a quick nap when they’re sleeping. You’ll also get better rest knowing that your newborn is just a few steps away from you rather than in a different room. A recessed curtain track set makes for an ideal room separator and even allows you to work or catch up on other important household tasks without disturbing your baby.
Designate a Few Empty Bins
After you’ve finished organizing the items you already have for your new baby, consider keeping a few storage totes for additional storage. You’ll most likely acquire new clothing and toys from family and friends in the first few months of the baby’s life. Having storage totes ready for this purpose reduces the likeliness of these items ending up on top of dressers or shoved in the back of the closet. Extra storage totes are also helpful for storing clothing they grow out of if you plan to reuse them for future babies.
Take Advantage of Drawer Organizers
Drawer organizers are a great way to separate drawer usage and make everything better organized. Use drawer dividers to keep socks paired and easy to access. Put small storage bins in an open drawer to hold hair accessories, underwear, or onesies. Hanging up clothing takes much longer and is most likely the task you’ll push off when you have a newborn in the house.
Use a Dresser as Your Changing Table
Using a dresser as a changing table can save space while adding more organization to the baby’s nursery. Dressers can make excellent changing tables if you choose the right design. You can also store diapers and clothing in the dresser, making changing sessions easy. Place a storage bin in the top drawer that includes baby powder and diaper cream.
Store Large Items Under the Crib
Larger items can usually fit snugly under the crib. Otherwise, the space directly beneath the crib is wasted. Use this space to store unused bouncers or travel playpens. Even better, you won’t have to go out to the garage or in the basement to get these items when you need them, and they’ll already be clean.
Set Up Zones in the Nursery
Dividing the baby’s nursery into zones or designated spaces for different tasks can help you more efficiently organize it. Create a sleeping area, diaper station, and nursing zone. Imagine a thin strip of tape separating each, and then organize accordingly. Make sure each zone has the necessary storage and compartmentalization. Try to create a clutter-free area for the baby’s sleeping area. This will help them avoid distractions and keep them safe while napping. A separate nursing zone can give you a quiet area to interact with your new baby.
Use Decor That Doubles as Storage
You can never have too much storage in your nursery. Some decor doubles as storage, which can help ensure you have a place for everything while still giving the nursery an aesthetic appeal. Dressers with cube cubbies are perfect for easy access to must-have items. You can purchase individual storage cubes based on your nursery design.
A new baby comes with a lot of preparation. Planning ahead and organizing the space before you begin shopping can help you keep everything in order. Sliding curtain rods and storage totes are exceptional items to keep you and your baby’s life organized.
