Photo Credit: The Art of Making a Baby
Where To Save
Furniture
My number one tip would be to buy most of the nursery furniture from somewhere other than a baby store. Prices on items such as dressers, gliders, and bookshelves are often marked up quite a bit at these specialty stores.
Storage
Little baby fingers will be getting in and out of everything in a few short months, so there is no need to have expensive storage items in the nursery. Something like this for keeping hold of all those little things like pacifiers, bibs, etc is great. It’s lightweight, neutral, and it can’t hurt baby. You can also get a big woven basket to keep toys in.
Bedding
I know those packaged sets of bedding are adorable but try to resist. Baby doesn’t need anything in her crib other than a sheet on the mattress. There are so many other places you can decorate the room it’s okay to leave this space simple.
Where To Splurge
Baby Monitor
A video monitor is sure to set your mind at ease, making it worth the money. Place it in your children’s play room once you no longer need it in the nursery. This way you can keep an eye on things from a different room, never having to guess again who actually started the fight.
The Chair
When you are up in the middle of night trying to convince your little one that sleep is not the enemy, the last thing you’re going to want to worry about is how uncomfortable your chair is making you. Invest in a quality rocker for this space, something you wouldn’t mind sitting in for extended periods of time. Also, invest in the money to take care of it, have it steam cleaned when it needs it. Staying on top of this maintenance will mean this piece of furniture can last far beyond its needs in the nursery.
Possible Splurge: The Crib
Depending on your needs a crib like this might be worth the extra money, if space is an issue. Also, consider spending a little extra on a crib that converts into a toddler bed. A convertible crib can definitely save you some money in the long run.
