Furnishing a nursery is an exciting but also challenging task. It needs to be safe and functional – and look good too. Together with the Danish interior brand Sebra, we share some inspiring ideas and tips to help you design your nursery. Let's get started!
Sebra specialises in furniture for children's rooms and nurseries and has been bringing its products to the market since 2004. The young label values high-quality, natural materials and Scandinavian design – furniture and accessories that create a cosy and, above all, safe environment for your child. Many Sebra products are certified and handmade by people who are passionate about good design and care about the wellbeing of the little ones.
What to consider when furnishing a nursery:
- The right colour for the nursery
- Nursery furniture with added value
- Creating enough storage space
- Where soft textiles belong
- Adding personal touches
Furnishing a nursery – frequently asked questions
1. The right colour for the nursery
Colours play a key role in designing a nursery. They influence mood and wellbeing. Soft pastels such as mint green, light blue or dusty pink create a calming atmosphere. For a modern touch, you can also choose neutral colours such as grey or beige and combine them with colourful accents.
Brands such as Cam Cam Copenhagen don't just focus on Scandinavian aesthetics – with hand-drawn prints, soft shades and timeless designs, they bring calm and a sense of security to the nursery.
2. Nursery furniture with added value
When choosing furniture, look for safety, functionality and durability. A cot that grows with your child, a changing unit with plenty of storage space and a comfortable nursing chair are essential parts of a nursery. Especially in the early days, when you need to buy so much, it makes sense to choose quality and durability. Furniture that grows with your child also saves you the cost of a new children's bed.
Sebra offers a wide range of high-quality, well thought-out furniture that is both practical and stylish. Thanks to its extending function, the Sebra bed grows with your child, who can sleep in it until the age of seven.
3. Creating enough storage space
Caring for a baby involves lots of small items – from nappies and cotton pads to little socks and all kinds of baby toys. At the changing table in particular, everything you need should be within easy reach. After all, you mustn't leave your baby alone for a minute at that height. Store things where you need them and make sure there's enough storage space there.
A tidy, organised nursery isn't just safer – it also looks nicer. Use shelves, baskets and boxes to store toys, clothes and care products neatly. If not everything fits into your changing unit, wall shelves are a particularly practical addition, as they create storage space at the right height – above the changing table, for example – without taking up floor space.
4. Where soft textiles belong
Soft textiles add cosiness and warmth to a nursery. But for safe sleep, it's important to avoid pillows and the like in the cot at first, so that nothing can cover your baby's head at night.
A soft rug or a play mat is also a good idea – even if, at first, your baby will only lie on it rather than crawl. Add a cushion in a matching colour to the nursing chair, and your nursery instantly feels inviting! Make sure the materials are gentle on the skin and easy to care for.
5. Adding personal touches
A nursery should reflect your child's personality. Choose individual decorative elements such as pictures, wall stickers or personalised name signs. Handmade accessories also give the room a personal touch and make it unique.
Conclusion
Furnishing a nursery takes planning and creativity. But with the right ideas and tips, it's easy to create a room that is both functional and safe. Get inspired and design a nursery where your little one feels completely at home.
Furnishing a nursery – frequently asked questions
When should you decorate and furnish the nursery?
It's a good idea to decorate the nursery about three to four months before the due date. This gives you enough time to finish all the work and air out any smells from paint or new furniture. After that, you can start furnishing it, ideally two to three months before the due date. This leaves enough time to get all the furniture and accessories and make the room cosy, safe and functional. Decorating and furnishing early helps you avoid stress and make sure everything is ready for your baby's arrival.
When should the nursery be finished?
Ideally, the nursery should be finished about four to six weeks before the due date. This gives parents enough time to get used to the new space and make sure everything is ready for the baby's arrival. Finishing the room early can also help you avoid stress and concentrate on other important preparations.
What furniture do I need for a nursery?
A nursery should be both cosy and functional. Here are some essential pieces of furniture you really need:
- Cot: a safe and comfortable cot or crib is a must.
- Changing unit: a sturdy changing table with enough storage space for nappies, wipes and clothes.
- Chest of drawers or wardrobe: for storing baby clothes, blankets and other essentials.
- Nursing chair: a comfortable chair or armchair where you can breastfeed or feed your baby.
- Night light: a soft light that helps you check on your baby at night without disturbing them too much.
- Play mat or rug: a soft surface for crawling and playing.
- Storage baskets: for toys, books and other small items, to keep the room tidy.
What colour should I use in the nursery?
Soft, calming colours such as pastels or neutral shades are ideal for a nursery. They create a relaxed atmosphere and are easy to combine.
How can you make a nursery safe?
Make sure all furniture is stable and has rounded edges. Sockets should be fitted with childproof covers, and heavy items should be securely fixed to the wall. It's also important to create a safe sleeping environment: during the first year, avoid cot bumpers, pillows and duvets in the cot to prevent suffocation. And if care products and spare clothes are within easy reach around the changing table, you won't need to leave your baby alone at changing height to fetch something. The rule is: always keep one hand on your baby!
Which accessories make a nursery really cosy?
Soft rugs or play mats offer a pleasant surface for crawling and playing. Cosy blankets and cushions in soft colours create a snug atmosphere. A mobile above the changing table attracts your baby's attention and supports their development. Night lights with a warm glow create a calming environment for sleep. Personal details such as picture frames with family photos or handmade decorations give the room an individual touch. Finally, practical accessories such as storage baskets and shelves also help keep things tidy and cosy.
