How to Decorate a Nursery on a Budget

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When you are expecting a new baby, chances are you want everything to be perfect for when he or she arrives. This includes the nursery, which can often be an expensive room to decorate. Fortunately there are ways to decorate a nursery without breaking the bank. All it takes is a little time, planning, and effort, and your little one’s nursery will look just as good as those pricey, high-end nurseries you see on television and the internet.

Develop a Budget

The first step in decorating a nursery on a budget is actually formulating the budget itself. This will give you an idea of what you can afford to spend when it comes to decorations and furnishings. When you have a general figure, you should then create a list of items that are absolutely necessary for your baby’s nursery. This list should include items such as a crib, dresser, and changing table. These are the things that you must purchase to give your little one what he or she needs. After you make a list of needs, then proceed with a list of “wants.” These are the things you want the nursery to have, but can forego if your budget does not permit them.

Pick a Theme

The next step is to pick a theme. When it comes to themes, it is a good idea to choose one that will be appropriate for years to come. This will save you from redoing the nursery when your son or daughter is a toddler or school-aged child. Although many nurseries carry a character theme, these often cost more money because character merchandise is usually more expensive. Try thinking of a general theme that may be appropriate for a boy or a girl, in case you have another baby. For example, a jungle animal theme can be fitting for either a boy or a girl. General themes are nice because you can use items from various stores to decorate. If you choose a specific theme from a specific store, you are usually limited to that store for decorations.

Save on Furniture

Since furniture is typically the most expensive part of a nursery, you should try to cut costs in this area whenever possible. If you have a family member who recently had a baby, ask them if they are willing to sell you their crib or changing table. This can save you a great deal of money. Just remember to use extreme caution if you are using any secondhand items for your baby, as you want it to meet safety regulations and be free of recalls. Always check the internet for lists of recalled baby merchandise before purchasing any new or used items for your newborn. Also make sure any used items are free of defects and in perfect working condition. There are also retailers that offer very reasonable nursery furniture. Check online at stores like Target and Ikea for nursery products. You may be surprised at what you can find for your budget.

Paint is Your Friend

Although many parents choose to use wallpaper for the walls of their baby’s nursery, paint is a much cheaper route and can be just as nice. Try painting the walls and ceiling contrasting colors to create a cool, soothing look. Add some clouds to the ceiling, or try using stencils on the walls. With paint, your options are almost endless because you can update a room as often as you please without spending a fortune.

Be Creative

Decorating a nursery on a budget sometimes requires a little creativity. Visit a craft store and see what they offer for nursery ideas. Pick up some plain wood letters or shapes, and paint them to create a one-of-a-kind wall mural. Think about picking up some cheap picture frames as well. Photos are always a great, cheap decoration for a baby’s nursery. Craft stores are also a great place to look for wall stencils and reasonably priced decorations. Let your creativity run wild and you will be able to make your baby’s nursery a unique, amazing place that he or she will love.

Use Area Rugs

If the carpet or flooring in your baby’s nursery is in less than perfect condition, consider purchasing area rugs to cover the floor. Area rugs can be found for very reasonable prices in almost every color and pattern imaginable. Instead of installing new carpet or flooring, some simple area rugs can give the nursery a customized look without costing you a fortune.

All of these things will help you decorate a nursery on a budget. As long as you take a little time and put forth some effort, your new bundle of joy will have the best looking room on the block.

Guest post from Bailey Harris. Bailey writes for AreaRugs.com, a site that sells brand name area rugs and related supplies.

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