Baby nursery ideas: Doula-recommended decor for 2025

Designing a nursery is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for a new baby. Nursery design trends are shifting towards spaces that blend style, function, and comfort for both baby and parents. Whether you’re looking for gender-neutral baby room ideas, modern nursery decor, or essential baby products to streamline your space, we’ve gathered the latest trends and science-backed tips to help you design the perfect room for your little one.

We asked one of our post partum doulas, Giovana Otavalo, to give us her nursery must-haves as well as the organization tips and tricks that make life easier. She reminds us that “babies need very little; a place to sleep, a place to be changed, and a place to snuggle!”

Let’s explore what’s new in nursery decor and baby nursery ideas for 2025!

What Do You Need for a Baby Nursery?

Creating a functional nursery is all about balancing style with practicality, ensuring it meets the needs of both the baby and parents. The key is to create a cohesive, organized environment that promotes comfort, safety, and a touch of personal flair. Giovana says, “A nursery should be serene, functional, and encourage healthy sleep habits from the start.” 

Here are some baby essentials and furniture must-haves for 2025:

1. Crib and Crib Mattress: Choose a crib with convertible options to extend its use into the toddler years (Giovanna likes this one). Opt for an organic or non-toxic crib mattress if the budget allows.
2. Changing Table or Dresser-Changing Table Combo: A dual-purpose dresser changing table saves space and provides much-needed storage. Use a wipeable changing pad (like this one) or one with washable covers for easy cleaning. 
3. Rocking Chair or Glider: Glider rocking chairs are popular for their sleek designs and comfort during late-night feedings. Consider an electric recliner that will make feeding and snuggling more comfortable, especially after a c-section. 
4. Blackout Curtains and White Noise Machine: Good sleep habits start with the right environment. Blackout curtains and a white noise machine help create a restful atmosphere for baby and parents. Giovanna is a big fan of both. “Black out curtains encourage babies to start making the connection between night and day, and help keep out the sun or street light brightness. A smart night light and sound machine combo helps drown out street or siblings’ noises, but also help simulate the constant sound that babies heard in the womb.”
5. Storage Solutions: Keep diaper caddies, diaper pails, and dressers well-organized for easy access to baby gear. Use velvet hangers to keep baby items from slipping off in the closet and drawer dividers and organizers for the dresser. Organizing drawers and closets based on sizes makes middle of the night changes so much faster. Consider keeping different categories separate (i.e. onesies vs sleepers), and separating by sleeve length and size (short vs long, newborn vs 0-3 months). Additionally, Giovanna says it’s helpful to have a rolling cart next to your recliner with all of your feeding essentials: pump and extra pump parts, or extra bottles and formula, snacks for the parents, burp cloths, pacifiers, etc.
6. Night Light: A soft, adjustable night light provides the perfect amount of illumination for nighttime feedings and diaper changes. Consider a portable night light that you can take with you from the recliner to the changing table.
7. Play Mat and Toys: High-quality play mats and stuffed animals in soft, natural fabrics add comfort and promote sensory development. Remember no stuffed animals in the crib with a sleeping baby.
8. Baby Monitor: Invest in a reliable baby monitor for peace of mind. Giovanna sees families who use sound only monitors and some who prefer higher-tech solutions. “There’s something for everyone!” She jokes.  
9. Wall Art and Decor: Think removable wallpaper, personalized name signs, and modern wall decals for easy customization.

Science-Backed Nursery Tips

• High-Contrast Colors: Studies show that newborns see high-contrast patterns more easily, which can promote visual development. Incorporate black-and-white wall art, rugs, or crib sheets.
• Textures and Layers: Adding various textures (like soft throws, woven rugs, and plush stuffed animals) stimulates sensory development and creates a cozy atmosphere.

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When Should I Start Setting Up the Baby Nursery?

The ideal time to start setting up the nursery is around the second trimester (weeks 13-27). This timeframe gives you plenty of energy and flexibility to plan key details like choosing a color palette, selecting a nursery theme, and deciding on essential furniture pieces. You’ll also have time to explore decor elements such as wall decals, removable wallpaper, and personalized touches like name signs. Additionally, you can research and order essential baby gear, such as the crib, changing table, glider rocking chair, and diaper caddy. Setting up the room during this period allows you to arrange storage solutions, test out the layout, and ensure the space is both functional and beautiful before the third trimester, when fatigue and discomfort may increase.

Timeline for Nursery Preparation

1. Second Trimester (Weeks 13-27):
   • Choose a color palette and nursery theme.
   • Order furniture like the crib, changing table, and glider rocking chair.
   • Plan the layout of your baby’s room.
2. Third Trimester (Weeks 28-36):
   • Assemble furniture and organize baby items.
   • Decorate with wall decals, removable wallpaper, and name signs.
   • Stock up on essentials like fitted sheets, diaper rash cream, and changing pads.
3. Final Weeks:
   • Double-check safety measures (e.g., securing furniture to walls).
   • Set up baby monitors and night lights.

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How to Organize Your Baby Nursery

A well-organized nursery makes daily tasks smoother and helps reduce stress, especially during those hectic first months. Thoughtful organization ensures that everything you need, from diapers to baby gear, is within easy reach, making nighttime feedings and diaper changes more efficient. It also creates a safer environment by minimizing clutter and potential hazards. Designated storage spaces, like labeled bins, drawer dividers, and shelves, help you keep track of essential baby items such as diaper rash cream, changing pads, and fitted sheets. A tidy, well-arranged nursery allows you to spend more time bonding with your baby and less time searching for things, promoting a sense of calm and order in your daily routine. Here are some organization hacks for your baby room:

1. Categorize Baby Items: Use labeled bins for different categories, such as diapers, baby gear, clothing, and toys. Keep a well-stocked diaper caddy to ensure you’re always prepared for quick changes.‍
2. Utilize Vertical Space: Install shelves for storing books, decor, and essential baby products. Use wall hooks for hanging baby clothes, swaddles, or bags.‍
3. Drawer Dividers and Storage Baskets: Keep smaller items like socks, bibs, pacifiers, spot stain remover, and diaper rash cream organized in drawer dividers.‍
4. Rotate Toys and Books: Maintain a clutter-free space by rotating toys and books to keep the nursery fresh and engaging. May parents keep a basket in the closet for toy rotation and it’s as easy as swapping a stacking toy for a few blocks every few weeks.

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Where to Buy Nursery Decor in 2025

Looking for stylish, budget-friendly, and practical nursery decor? Consider a mix of new and second-hand options to create a beautiful yet cost-effective space. Here are some great places to shop:

• Your local baby boutique: Support local small businesses when sourcing special pieces for your baby nursery!
• West Elm Kids: Modern nursery furniture and decor with a focus on clean lines and neutral colors.
• Pottery Barn Kids: Classic and timeless nursery decor, including personalized accents like name signs.
• Crate & Kids: Trendy, gender-neutral furniture and decor with a focus on function and design.
• Target: Affordable and stylish baby essentials like cribs, bedding, and storage solutions.
• Amazon: Wide selection of baby gear that will ship right to your door.
• Etsy: Unique, handmade items like wall decals, name signs, and custom decor.
• The Bump: Offers curated nursery design tips and links to must-have baby products.

Second-Hand Shopping Tips

When buying second-hand, inspect items carefully for wear and tear, and double-check that products like cribs and baby monitors meet up-to-date safety guidelines. Wash or sanitize all baby products thoroughly before use. Here are some places to look for second-hand nursery decor:

• Facebook Marketplace: A treasure trove for gently-used baby furniture, decor, and baby gear like strollers. Be sure to check seller reviews and meet in a public place for safety.
• Local Buy-Sell-Trade Groups: Many communities have dedicated groups for swapping or selling baby items.
• Thrift Stores and Consignment Shops: Great for scoring deals on items like cribs, rocking chairs, and dressers. Look for items that meet current safety standards.
• Online Marketplaces: Websites like OfferUp and Mercari are excellent for second-hand finds.

Combining new and second-hand pieces not only saves money but also supports sustainability while creating a personalized, charming nursery for your little one.

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Key Nursery Design Trends for 2025

1. Gender-Neutral Color Palettes

Neutral colors like sage green, soft beige, and warm taupe are taking over. These timeless tones work well with evolving decor as your baby grows.

2. Accent Walls and Removable Wallpaper

Create a focal point with an accent wall featuring removable wallpaper or a bold paint color. This trend makes it easy to switch up the room’s style.

3. Sustainability-Focused Furniture

Eco-friendly furniture made from sustainable materials is on the rise. Look for non-toxic finishes and durable pieces that grow with your child, like convertible cribs and toddler beds.

4. Playful Wall Art and Decals

Modern wall art and wall decals featuring animals, nature themes, or abstract designs add personality to the room without overwhelming the space.

5. Smart Baby Gear

Tech-savvy parents are investing in smart monitors, voice-controlled night lights, and high-tech glider rocking chairs for added convenience.

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Designing a nursery for 2025 blends style, science, and function. Whether you're incorporating a cozy glider, setting up a clever storage system, or choosing high-contrast wall art, today’s baby nursery ideas are all about creating a space that works for the whole family. Start planning early, invest in key pieces like a convertible crib and blackout curtains, and enjoy the process of creating a beautiful, practical space for your little one.

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