As a mom, you may not have total control over how well your baby sleeps (despite your best efforts), but you do have creative control over where they sleep.
Designing a sweet, welcoming space for your little one can be as simple as stocking it with the basics and adding a dash of family sentiment. Or you can unleash your inner interior decorator with a carefully curated theme. Regardless of your approach, the place where you bring baby home should be inviting and baby-friendly.
We asked moms to share the one item that makes their baby's nursery special. The eclectic mix of answers proves you can't really go wrong — but it's good to have the trifecta: form, function, and sweetness.
"I put my husband's childhood teddy bear and my baby blanket on a shelf in the nurseries." -- Monica B.
Nostalgia adds a personal touch. When the kids are older, the bear and blanket can find a new home elsewhere in the house.
"I have friends who travel abroad a lot and would bring back art and dolls to decorate the nursery. They were so unique." -- Tina C.
Toys — especially those with a collected or handcrafted look — add personality to a space. Bonus: They make great playthings as baby grows.
"We have a bassinet that was handed down through my family for generations. It warms my heart whenever I see my baby in it." -- Claudia R.
Talk about getting your money's worth!
Old furniture should always be checked for safety. So long as it's in good shape and fits today's standards, a family heirloom lends timeless charm.
More from CafeMom: 6 Common Nursery Decor Mistakes Parents Make & What to Do Instead
"I recycled the chalkboards I used at my wedding and created pieces of art featuring children's book quotes." -- Sarah S.
Quotes from classic books can make beautiful and meaningful artwork. Recycling and repurposing items saves money and gives you a sentimental story to tell.
"My aunt knew the theme for our nursery ahead of time and made a quilt that matched it exactly." -- Amy M.
It was so gorgeous the family decided to hang the quilt on the wall above baby's crib.
Handcrafted items are certainly one of a kind and make a nursery feel truly special.
"My mom did a needlepoint picture for each of my girls. She doesn't do that much anymore, so it felt extra special." -- Cheryl C.
Nothing sweeter than stitches that showcase a family member's talent.
"We don't have room for a nursery, but we bought a gadget that projects stars. It turns any room in our place into 'her' room." -- Amanda S.
Urban dwellers know how to make it work. In a small space, you may also consider a room divider, a differently colored wall, or just a whimsically decorated nook to designate a special place for baby.
More from CafeMom: 15 Kids' Rooms & Nurseries Cleverly Carved Out of Small Spaces
"I framed my favorite poem and hung it in my daughter's nursery." -- Becky C.
Poems and favorite quotes can show your love or wishes for your baby's future. Flip through some of your most beloved books for inspiration.
More from CafeMom: The Essential Nursery Checklist: Everything You Need for Baby's Room
"My father-in-law does woodworking as a hobby and made the cutest whale plaque with our baby's name on it." -- Victoria S.
Grandpa's love shines through when his handiwork is on display.
"We had a plain white dresser where a friend painted a custom design of the ocean with a treasure chest, octopus, fish, and sea stars." -- Jenny M.
Simple or affordable furniture can be hacked or hand-painted for a unique and eye-catching look.
"The glider in our nursery is super special to me. It's cozy and the perfect place to rock our son whenever we all need some quiet." -- Brandi K.
Don't forget, baby's space isn't just for him. Make sure you'll have a comfy spot for feedings, story time, or cuddle sessions, too.
