Last Updated on March 11, 2021
Most dads can’t wait to start creating a beautiful nursery for their little ones. Before starting to set up a nursery, it’s a good idea to do the homework though (sigh, I know). This post quickly summarizes common mistakes that you can hopefully now avoid.
1. Starting too Late
Well…if you’re reading this article one week before the due date, then this advice doesn’t really help you, does it?
Relax, open a beer, and take comfort in knowing that you aren’t the only one out there. I bought the last items for my nursery when our kid was already a one-year-old toddler.
If you have more time left, then it’s better to start early though. You (or your partner) will have more time to think about the design, check what items to buy and keep an eye on bargains.
2. Not Choosing a General Theme
Don’t get me wrong here. You don’t have to do something super-complicated. Setting up some general guidelines will make your life easier though. Even choosing the primary colors with your partner counts.
That said, the sky is the limit when it comes to picking a theme. You can find inspiration from children’s books, cartoons, old baby prints, and novelty fabrics.
After putting down some reference points, you’ll find choosing nursery items so much easier, and you’ll avoid buying unnecessary stuff.
3. Choosing only one Color When Starting a Nursery set up
Colors can affect our mood, and while most have some excellent properties, it’s best not to go with only one color. For example, pink is soothing, but when used too much, the room can feel draining. Blue is also considered a soothing color, but use it too much, and the nursery may feel cold.
4. Not Thinking About the Safety of Your Nursery
Newborns don’t move around, and so it’s understandable that most dads think “I’ll do the babyproofing later.” I can tell you that a year passes quicker than you anticipate. Before you know it, you’ll have a crawling little person there who’s trying to take her first steps. It’s better to do the general proofing right when setting up the nursery or you may simply forget.
Anchoring all tall pieces of furniture to the wall is probably the most crucial task. Your baby may topple them over when he starts to learn walking and tries to lean on them.
If you wish to see a more comprehensive check-list, then click here.
5. Going With an old Crib
If you have your mother’s old metal crib somewhere in the attic, then don’t use it. Many crib manufacturers used lead-based paint before 1977, and you can’t be sure that your family heirloom is safe.
Another reason to buy a new crib is that modern standards are more strict (they don’t apply for mini cribs though). The sides should be high enough to stop your little one from climbing out. The inner dimensions of new models are regulated to ensure that the crib mattresses fit correctly.
Some old cribs had drop sides, but they are now forbidden because they can (and did) cause injuries.
So…buy a crib that’s manufactured after 2011!
