10 Steps to an Easy-to-Clean, Safe Nursery

As you prepare for your baby’s arrival, creating a nursery that is not only beautiful but also easy to clean and safe is essential. After all, you’ll want to ensure that both the nursery environment and your baby’s health are top priorities. Whether you’re attending antenatal classes to learn more about prenatal care or reading up on safety tips for newborns, these steps will guide you through creating a functional, safe, and easily maintainable space.

1. Choose Non-Toxic Paint for the Nursery

When setting up your baby’s room, the first thing you’ll likely think about is the colour scheme. However, it’s equally important to make sure the paint you choose is safe for your little one. Many paints, particularly those with strong chemical smells, can release harmful toxins that could affect both you and your baby’s health. As part of your antenatal care, it’s essential to ensure that you select non-toxic paints, such as low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) options, which are specifically designed to be safer for babies and pregnant mums.

“I was really careful about choosing eco-friendly paint for the nursery,” says Alice, a mum from Leeds. “I had read that the chemicals in some paints can be harmful, so I made sure to get a low-VOC, non-toxic paint. It gave me peace of mind while I was pregnant, and it also smells so much better!”

Opting for non-toxic paints not only keeps the air quality in the nursery fresh but also reduces any potential health risks during your antenatal appointments. Some good brands to consider include Little Greene, Earthborn, or Dulux’s Natural and Eco ranges.

2. Invest in an Easy-to-Clean Changing Table

When it comes to newborn care, the changing table is an essential piece of furniture in your nursery. However, keeping it clean after every nappy change can be a challenge. One of the best ways to tackle this is by choosing a changing table with wipeable surfaces.

“I went for a changing table with wipe-clean surfaces,” shares Katie, a mum from London. “It made such a difference when my baby had a lot of little accidents. It saved me so much time because I didn’t have to worry about stains.”

Look for a changing table with a removable, washable cover or one with surfaces made from materials like melamine or plastic, which are durable and easy to wipe down.

3. Use Soft, Washable Fabrics for Bedding

Bedding is another area in your baby’s nursery that requires special attention when it comes to cleaning. Babies are messy, and keeping your baby’s cot or crib clean is essential for both their health and comfort. Opt for soft, 100% cotton bedding, which is gentle on delicate skin and easy to wash.

“When I was setting up my nursery, I made sure to choose soft cotton sheets that were machine washable,” says Grace, a mum from Manchester. “It’s so easy to wash, and it keeps the cot looking fresh all the time.”

Ensure that your baby’s bedding is safe and snug in the cot, with no loose blankets or pillows that could pose a suffocation risk. Swaddle blankets can be a great alternative to keep your baby warm and comfortable, and they’re also easy to wash.

4. Declutter the Nursery with Storage Solutions

A cluttered nursery can make cleaning difficult and make the space feel cramped. When planning your nursery layout, make sure to include plenty of storage solutions for toys, clothes, books, and other baby essentials. This will help you stay organised and make tidying up easier. It also helps keep the nursery safe by ensuring that there are no hazards like small objects lying around that your baby could accidentally grab.

“We invested in lots of baskets and shelves,” says Sarah, a mum from Birmingham. “It helped us keep everything organised and made the room look so much tidier. We didn’t have baby toys all over the place!”

Storage baskets or under-bed drawers can keep baby essentials out of sight and within easy reach, making cleaning quick and simple. Consider furniture that has hidden storage, such as ottomans or cribs with drawers.

5. Opt for a Rug That’s Easy to Clean

While rugs can add a cosy touch to the nursery, they can also be tricky to clean. Newborns are likely to spend a lot of time on the floor, so you’ll want a rug that is durable and washable. Look for a rug that is machine washable or one made from easy-to-clean materials like synthetic fibres.

“I chose a washable rug for the nursery because babies tend to make a mess, especially with spills and food,” says Emma, a mum from Glasgow. “It was great because I could just pop it in the washing machine, and it came out looking as good as new!”

Be sure to choose a rug that is non-slip, so it stays in place while your baby plays and crawls. If you’re opting for a traditional rug, use a non-slip rug pad underneath to keep it secure.

6. Ensure Good Ventilation in the Nursery

A well-ventilated room is essential for your baby’s health. Babies can be more susceptible to respiratory issues, so ensuring that your nursery has proper airflow will help reduce the risk of issues like stuffiness or allergies.

“I always made sure to open the window for a little bit every day, especially in the early days after bringing my baby home,” says Tasha, a mum from Nottingham. “It helped keep the air fresh and healthy.”

If your nursery doesn’t have many windows or you live in a building with limited airflow, consider investing in a quiet air purifier to help improve air quality. It’s especially helpful for reducing allergens that could cause issues for your baby’s sensitive respiratory system.

7. Avoid Harsh Cleaning Products

When you’re setting up your nursery and cleaning it regularly, it’s important to use non-toxic and baby-safe cleaning products. Harsh chemicals can be harmful to your baby, especially in the early days when their immune system is still developing.

“I made sure to use natural, non-toxic cleaning products around my baby,” shares Rachel, a mum from Oxford. “I didn’t want to expose him to any chemicals, especially when he was spending so much time on the floor.”

Look for eco-friendly cleaning products that are free from harmful chemicals, such as bleaches and strong detergents. There are many baby-safe cleaners available that work effectively without compromising your baby’s health.

8. Baby-Proof Your Furniture

While preparing your nursery, don’t forget to baby-proof any furniture. Babies love to explore, so it’s crucial to make sure that everything is safe. Secure heavy furniture, such as bookshelves and wardrobes, to the wall to prevent them from toppling over. Ensure that there are no sharp edges on tables or furniture that your baby could injure themselves on.

“We had to baby-proof the nursery as soon as we set it up,” says Holly, a mum from Bristol. “We had a heavy wardrobe, so we used furniture straps to secure it to the wall. We also made sure all the sharp corners were covered.”

Consider adding corner protectors to tables and sharp edges, and always make sure that small objects or choking hazards are out of reach.

9. Create a Designated Diapering Area

Having a designated area for diapering is essential for keeping the nursery organised and clean. This will help you stay on top of nappy changes and avoid cross-contaminating areas that your baby will sleep or play in. Keep all the necessary items, such as nappies, wipes, and creams, in one place to streamline the process.

“I found having a designated diapering area helped me stay organised,” says Lucy, a mum from Newcastle. “It made nappy changes much quicker and kept everything in its place.”

Ensure the changing table is at an appropriate height to avoid straining your back. Keeping items like nappy cream, wipes, and spare nappies within easy reach will save you time during diaper changes.

10. Regularly Clean the Nursery

Finally, keeping your baby’s nursery clean and hygienic is essential for their health. Regularly dusting surfaces, cleaning toys, and vacuuming the floor will help keep harmful germs at bay. Make it a habit to do a quick tidy-up every day and a more thorough cleaning session once a week.

“Daily cleaning routines really helped,” says Fiona, a mum from Liverpool. “It didn’t take long, and I could always relax knowing the nursery was clean for my baby.”

Creating a safe, easy-to-clean nursery is one of the first and most important steps in preparing for your baby’s arrival. By following these tips and focusing on safety and cleanliness, you’ll create a nursery that both you and your baby can enjoy. Remember, antenatal support and care extend beyond just physical health; creating a safe, comfortable environment is part of nurturing your baby’s overall well-being.