Nurseries

Nurseries

Baby nurseries can be fun to decorate while you’re awaiting the arrival of your precious little bundle of joy. Make sure that you take the proper safety precautions, though, before your little one arrives. Nurseries that have potentially hazardous furniture or decorations can be dangerous nurseries. Online tips for nurseries such as the ones below can keep your baby safe throughout childhood.

• Use plug protectors or covers for unused electrical outlets.
• If you’re going to have a humidifier, choose one that uses cool air instead of a vaporizer to avoid burning a crawling toddler, and make sure to clean the unit frequently to prevent the growth of mold and harmful bacteria.
• A smoke detector is a must-have for all homes with small children, placed either in or near baby nurseries.
• Make sure that no drapery or cords are within baby’s reach, and never place any furniture that your child could climb up on near a window.
• Use window guards to prevent children falling out the window.
• Never choose furniture for baby nurseries that has sharp edges, small pieces that could accidentally be swallowed. Chests with heavy lids also present a danger of entraping the child.

Growing into Baby Nurseries

In addition to baby-proofing nurseries, it’s also important to give your child something he or she can grow into comfortably. Plan ahead, so that the room can last through childhood without looking too babyish. Definitely avoid wall-to-wall carpeting, not only because of possible allergens harbored in the fibers, but also for easy cleanups. Make sure you select furniture fit initially for nurseries, but that can also double later as something else, to get more value from each item. And most importantly, don’t forget a place for yourself in your baby’s nursery. A comfortable armchair or rocker will provide you many hours of joy as you read, sing or rock your child to sleep.

5/25/2007 12:29:24 PM