The best baby nursery is often the least expensive.

That’s because many of the traditional customs we bring to nurseries are outdated and not recommended by pediatricians. In fact, with just a little research, it becomes clear that keeping the nursery simple is the best way to welcome your newborn into the world. Here are our five tips for a nursery that baby and your bank account will find enchanting.

1.     Why thinking in black and white is better in the case of a nursery

Traditional color schemes for baby nurseries tended towards a delicate pastel spectrum. However, science suggests that a monochromatic black and white color scheme sends the strongest signals to your baby’s brain. This can stimulate brain growth and aid in visual development. If your nursery walls are already white, this breaking news from the world of infant development can save a dime and a lot of time on painting the nursery. Also, a neutral color palette will age better as your little one starts to develop his or her own fashion sense.

2.     Bold, contrasting patterns are also good for baby’s brain development

You can jazz up those plain white walls with bright, bold patterns in constrasting colors. Go with something as simple as black polka dots, or use affordable, changeable wall decals in fun shapes for a more tailored approach. Black and white stripes are also a winner, both in terms of sophisticated nursery décor and visual stimulation for your little one.

3.     Update over time rather than doing it all at once

Your nesting hormones may convince you that the nursery must be finished by the time of your newborn’s arrival. On the contrary, it may actually benefit baby’s brain development to evolve the nursery over time. Think of the nursery as an art gallery for one – your little one, that is. For example, when your infant begins to see colors at three months, it’s a good time to add some splashes of color in the form of new toys and playful art. At twelve months, you can upgrade the nursery again by adding more complex color schemes, which will keep your growing baby’s brain stimulated.

4.     Invest in a convertible crib

They may be more expensive than standard models, but a convertible crib can grow with your newborn. From crib, it converts to a toddler bed, and from toddler bed, a convertible crib can transform into a full-size bed with a few extra parts. Over the long haul, that makes a convertible crib the most budget-friendly bed for your baby.

5.     Speaking of budget friendly beds, skip the fancy bedding

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the safest sleep environment for an infant is the simplest. The AAP recommends a firm mattress in a safety-approved crib covered with a fitted sheet. That’s it. Other bedding such as pillows, quilts, and bumper pads pose a suffocation hazard for newborns. Instead, swaddle baby in infant sleep clothing to keep them warm throughout the night without the dangers posed by unnecessary bedding.

Don’t forget the breast pump!

The AAP also recommends breastfeeding exclusively or feeding with expressed milk exclusively for six months, as doing so is associated with a reduced risk of SIDS. That means that the right breast pump is an important element to your baby’s new home. Get in touch with our team of breast pump consultants today to find the best pump for you and your newborn.