Babies may be tiny, but they come with a ton of stuff, including furniture, clothing and diapering accessories. If you live in a small space, it can be challenging to fit a nursery in a one-bedroom apartment. However, if you think strategically and creatively, you can arrange your place to create the perfect spot for your child while leaving enough space for the new mom and dad, too.
Here are some small space living tips for planning ahead, creating a nursery in a one-bedroom apartment and adapting as your child grows.
1. Create a baby nook by converting one bedroom into two
Use a curtain mounted on the ceiling or a room divider in your bedroom or part of the living room to help make a distinct baby zone in your apartment and create a cozy space for sleeping.
Consider a nursery wall opposite your bed or a loft bed solution where your bed is above with plenty of room below to tuck in a crib, a rocking chair and storage.
You can buy a compact mini crib designed for apartment living. Some models even convert to a twin bed so you can use it for several years. You can also get a smaller rocking chair or glider that can be used near the baby nook or in your main living space as extra seating.
2. Repurpose your closet into a nursery
You can purchase wardrobes to hang your own clothing and turn your closet into a space-saving nursery. Remove the closet doors and put the crib inside. If you’re lucky enough to have a walk-in closet in your one-bedroom apartment, you’ll also be able to fit your baby’s changing table, clothing and diapering accessories in one place.
Install two rods on the closet wall above the crib or beside it to hang baby clothes, or put up floating shelves.
3. Create usable corner spaces
You can optimize every nook and cranny in your one-bedroom apartment by thinking creatively, such as using corners. For example, hang up a piece of netting to make a stuffed animal hammock. Put up floating shelves that meet in the corner to store books, toys and other baby things.
4. Declutter before going on a shopping spree
If possible, go through your belongings before the baby is born. Sort items into different piles — sell, donate, toss and store — keeping only what you need or love. Getting organized now will not only create more space for you to share with your child but will also save you the time you won’t have once the baby arrives.
5. Go minimalist
Sure, wandering through a big box store packed with baby things might make you think you need everything on display in order to raise a happy, healthy child. But in fact, you probably don’t need most of it. If you embrace the mindset of living with less, you can keep your small apartment clean and feel more spacious. For example, instead of a bulky high chair, use one that can clip onto any table.
You might also want to encourage family and friends to contribute to a college savings account instead of buying you baby gear, toys and clothing.
6. Invest in multi-purpose furniture and gear
In a small space, baby gear that serves several functions is worth every penny. For example, instead of a crib, you can purchase a four-in-one playpen that features a bassinet, a changing table, a removable vibrating seat plus storage space. Many of these multi-functional items transition from infant to toddler by adding or removing different pieces, so you can even save money in the long run.
Instead of getting a changing table, use a dresser and install a four-sided changing mat on top. Underneath, stash diapers, wipes, clothing and other supplies. Or, install a fold-down changing table, which will save lots of space.
7. Maximize storage space
Baby items seem to multiply overnight if you’re not smart about storage. Whether you have a closet nursery or a DIY nook, think vertically and hang as much as you can to keep floor space clear. Even the tiniest one-bedroom apartments offer vertical space on walls and ceilings. Install open shelving and lots of hooks to hang things like laundry bags, clothing and baby supplies. You can even hang up gear such as a folding stroller.
Take advantage of hidden storage, too. Use bins or baskets to hide baby clothes, toys and extra diapers, and slide them under the crib. Hang up an over-the-door pocket shoe organizer, which is perfect for smaller items.
8. Make decorative items useful
While many parents want to add all kinds of wall art, mobiles and baby items everywhere, creating a nursery in a one-bedroom apartment means making smart, less-is-more choices. Show off your decorative style with a painted accent wall, patterned rug or funky light fixture instead of décor that will clutter floor space.
Enjoy your space for this short time
When your baby is born, it’s easier to share your bedroom with this tiny person. However, chances are you’ll probably need more space for your growing family after the first couple of years. Re-evaluate your rental needs after the first year, and in the meantime, give yourself time to adjust to living with less and enjoy this new time with your child.
