Decorating Baby’s Room: A Blend of Old and New

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Updated January 02, 2025

Decorating Baby’s Room: A Blend of Old and New. Welcoming a new baby into the world is a magical experience filled with joy, anticipation, and a bit of anxiety about getting everything just right. One of the most enjoyable tasks is decorating the baby’s room. Creating a cozy, beautiful, and functional nursery can set the stage for many cherished memories.

A trend that many parents are embracing is blending the charm of old family keepsakes with the convenience and style of modern, trendy items. This fusion not only creates a unique and personal space but also honors family heritage while embracing contemporary comforts.

1. Furniture: The Heart of the Nursery

Crib and Bassinet

Start with the centerpiece of the nursery – the crib. If you have a crib that’s been passed down through generations, it can be a beautiful focal point in the room. Ensure it meets current safety standards by checking for lead paint, ensuring that the slats are the appropriate distance apart, and that the mattress is firm and fits snugly. Pair this vintage piece with a modern bassinet for the early months. The Halo Bassinest Swivel Sleeper is a popular choice available on Amazon, offering features like a 360-degree swivel, adjustable height, and soothing vibrations.

Changing Table and Dresser

Consider using an old dresser as a changing table. One of the all-time great ideas. Not only does it provide ample storage, but it also adds a touch of history to the room. Add a changing pad on top, and you have a functional, stylish piece. If you prefer new, look for a modern changing table with plenty of storage options, like the Delta Changing Table, which is sleek and functional.

2. Decor: Creating a Warm and Inviting Space

Wall Art and Mobiles

Personalize the nursery walls with a mix of old and new art. Family photos, handprints, or a framed piece of grandma’s embroidery can add a sentimental touch. Complement these with modern wall decals or prints. Amazon offers a wide range of nursery wall art, from whimsical animal prints to personalized name decals. Mobiles are another great way to blend old and new. If you have a handmade mobile that’s been in the family, hang it above the crib. A contemporary mobile like the Tiny Love Meadow Days Take Along Mobile, which offers music and movement to entertain and soothe your baby is another option.

Stuffed Animals and Toys

Stuffed animals often become beloved keepsakes. Display a few cherished toys from your own childhood alongside new, trendy stuffed animals. The Jellycat Bashful Bunny, available on Amazon, is incredibly soft and has become a favorite among modern parents. Mixing these toys creates a charming display and gives your baby a connection to the past.

 3. Decorating Baby’s Room: Textiles

Blankets and Bedding

Handmade blankets or quilts from family members add warmth and history to the nursery. Place these on the rocking chair or drape them over the crib for a cozy, homey feel. Balance these with modern, safe crib bedding. The KeaBabies Organic Crib Sheet Set, available on Amazon, offers stylish, breathable options in various trendy patterns and colors.

Rugs and Curtains

A vintage rug can add character to the nursery floor. Look for something soft and durable, perhaps a piece that has been in the family for years. Complement this with modern blackout curtains, like the NICETOWN Blackout Curtains, to ensure your baby gets restful sleep in a darkened room.

4. Clothing and Accessories: Practicality Meets Sentimentality

Outfits

Dressing your baby in a combination of heirloom clothing and new outfits is a delightful way to honor family traditions while embracing contemporary styles. Those tiny hand-knitted sweaters from grandma can be paired with trendy onesies from Amazon. Brands like Simple Joys by Carter’s offer adorable, affordable options that are perfect for daily wear.

Pacifiers and Bottles

While it’s unlikely you’ll use old pacifiers or bottles for your baby, displaying these items from your own childhood can be a charming nod to the past. Pair this nostalgic touch with modern, BPA-free bottles and pacifiers like those from Philips Avent or Nuk, available on Amazon. These items ensure safety and convenience while maintaining a sentimental link to your family’s history.

5. Decorating Baby’s Room: Functional Items

Stroller

An old-fashioned pram can be a beautiful addition to your nursery décor and can be used for leisurely strolls around the neighborhood. For everyday use, though, a modern stroller is a must. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller, available on Amazon, is versatile and stylish, offering features like a reversible seat, large storage basket, bug and rain shield, and smooth ride.

Decorating Baby’s Room: Rocking Chair

A rocking chair is essential for soothing your baby to sleep. If you have an antique rocking chair, consider updating it with new cushions that match your nursery’s color scheme. If you’re in the market for a new one, the NIOIIKIT is a popular choice on Amazon, offering comfort and modern style.

Final Touches: Bringing It All Together

Lighting

Lighting sets the mood in the nursery. A vintage lamp or chandelier can be a beautiful focal point, adding a touch of elegance and history. Pair this with modern, practical lighting options like a dimmable night light or a smart light bulb system, which can be controlled from your phone. The Hatch Baby Rest Sound Machine, Night Light, and Time-to-Rise is a multifunctional gadget that grows with your child, available on Amazon.

Storage Solutions

Keep the nursery organized with a mix of old and new storage solutions. A vintage toy chest can store toys and blankets, while modern storage bins and organizers, like the ULG 1 Pack Over Door Organizer can keep clothes, diapers, and essentials neatly arranged.

Decorating Baby’s Room: Personal Touches

Incorporate personal touches to make the nursery uniquely yours. A handmade name banner, a growth chart that tracks milestones, or a collection of your favorite childhood books can add personality and warmth to the room.

Conclusion

Decorating Baby’s Room: A Blend of Old and New, is a wonderful way to create a space that is both meaningful and functional. By blending family keepsakes with modern, trendy pieces available on Amazon, you can design a nursery that is a perfect mix of tradition and contemporary style. This thoughtful approach not only provides a beautiful environment for your baby but also creates a space filled with memories, love, and a sense of continuity.

To learn more about the history of baby gifts and furniture, read this article.