Decorating a nursery is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for a new baby—but it can also feel overwhelming. From Pinterest-perfect themes to endless product recommendations, how do you know what you actually need to create a cozy, functional space?
Whether you're a new parent or a grandparent helping out, this nursery decor checklist will walk you through the baby room must-haves that strike the perfect balance between comfort, creativity, and style.
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1. Start With a Soothing Color Palette
You don’t need to repaint the whole room—but choosing a cohesive palette sets the tone. Think calming neutrals, soft aquas, earthy greens, or playful coral and lilac accents. Color can affect your baby’s mood (and yours!), so go with tones that feel joyful but gentle.
2. Add Art That Grows With Them
Wall art is more than just decoration—it creates an emotional tone and sparks early imagination. Look for timeless nursery wall art that’s not overly babyish. This way, it can evolve with your child’s growing personality.
👉 Explore our Nursery Decor Collection for joyful, hand-drawn prints that bring any space to life.
3. Choose a Theme (Loosely)
You don’t need to go all-in on jungle or boho vibes, but a loose theme can help narrow your choices.
- Underwater adventure (think whales, seaweed, and bubbly blues)
- Woodland animals
- Abstract and geometric (perfect for a more modern nursery)
Need inspiration? Check out our post: Designing a Nursery Around a Theme: Ideas for Every Style
4. Cozy Seating for You
This one's technically for the grown-up. Whether it’s a rocking chair or soft glider, having a comfy place to sit while feeding or reading is a game-changer.
5. Soft Lighting
Use a mix of lighting: overhead, task (like a reading lamp), and something with a soft glow for nighttime diaper changes. Bonus points for a dimmer or nightlight with personality—like a star-shaped lamp or one that matches your nursery art.
6. Storage With Style
Baskets, bins, and shelves keep chaos at bay. Choose pieces that double as decor—like woven baskets or book ledges with framed prints resting on them.
7. Functional Wall Decor
Hooks, floating shelves, or wall-mounted organizers are great ways to add personality while keeping essentials close. Pair them with baby room art prints for a gallery-wall-meets-storage feel.
8. Something Sentimental
Add a framed quote, a piece of artwork from a loved one, or a meaningful object. These personal touches are what make a nursery feel loved, not just styled.
Ready to Create a Nursery That Feels Like Home?
Decorating doesn’t have to mean overbuying. With just a few thoughtful pieces, you can create a space that’s both functional and full of joy.
👉 Start with our Nursery Decor Collection — featuring bestsellers like the Curly Owl Print and Fish Blobs No. 1.
Or, if you’re a grandparent trying to help without overstepping, you might like this: Gift Nursery Decor Without Overstepping
