7 Crib Placement and Nursery Layout Ideas

Designing your baby’s nursery can be an exciting but challenging project.

There are so many things to consider! 

Like where’s the safest area to place the crib, how to arrange the furniture in the room, how to add more storage, and more.

So in this article, you’ll get crib placement and nursery layout ideas that can kick-start your imagination and planning.

You’ll also get more tips on how to plan the nursery room with the future in mind. You need to consider its function when your baby turns into a toddler, kindergartener, and so on.

So let’s start with where to put the crib and some popular examples of nursery layouts.

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Crib Placement and Nursery Layout Ideas (With Pictures!)

Arranging your nursery room layout involves careful consideration of where to place the crib – the most important furniture in your baby’s room. 

Let’s explore some creative options to help you decide what works best for your space and your family’s needs.

Crib Next to Glider

From Hilary Duff’s nursery room. Check out more celebrity nursery rooms here.

IG pic from @harteliefboutigue

IG pic from @homewithjoanie

Placing the crib next to your nursery or rocking chair creates a nurturing corner for those late-night feedings and soothing lullabies. 

This arrangement makes it convenient for you to attend to your baby’s needs in the most convenient way possible.

Crib Placed Opposite Nursery Chair

pics from digsdigs.com

If you prefer a balanced look for the room, go for this nursery layout. 

With the crib positioned opposite the nursery chair, you create a harmonious visual symmetry that’s both pleasing and calming.

Crib In the Corner

IG pic from @thefox.home

For a cozy and intimate feel, consider placing the crib in a corner of the room. 

This layout makes the crib the focal point while offering a snug and quiet spot (ideally!) for your baby.

Crib in the Center

IG pic from @jikelhousedubai

Placing the crib in the center of the room can give your nursery a unique and dynamic feel. 

This layout works especially well if you have a spacious room and want the crib to be the heart of the design.

Crib in a Shared Space

If your nursery is in your bedroom (or your older kids’) or you plan to put it an office or a guest room, consider a layout that integrates the crib seamlessly into the shared area.

This arrangement is practical for families who want to keep their baby close while multitasking or has a small space.

Crib Next to Diaper Station

Efficiency meets functionality with this layout. Placing the crib next to the diaper station ensures quick and easy access during diaper changes, minimizing disruptions to your baby’s routine.

Crib Twin Nursery Layout

pic from thespruce.com

IG pic from @stokkebaby

Are you expecting twins? Create a harmonious layout by placing the cribs parallel or next to each other. 

This design makes caring for your little ones more manageable.

Crib Placement: Do’s and Don’ts

Don’t put the crib near a window: Avoid placing the crib near windows due to potential drafts, direct sunlight exposure, street noise, window break-in breakage, etc.

Place cribs far away from cords: Ensure that cords from blinds, curtains, and electronics are well out of reach to prevent any accidental hazards.

Don’t hang anything near the crib: Resist the temptation to hang decorations, mobiles, or anything that could potentially fall into the crib. Read more baby-safe sleeping tips here.

Nursery Layout and Furniture Arrangement: Tips & Tricks

Designing a nursery goes beyond crib placement; it’s about creating a cohesive and functional space. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your nursery layout:

  • Consider current and future use of space

When planning your nursery’s layout, think beyond the newborn stage. 

Anticipate how the room’s functionality will evolve as your baby grows into a toddler and beyond. 

Flexibility in furniture arrangement can help accommodate changing needs.

  • Visualize the nursery room with a sketch 

A visual representation can help you better conceptualize the layout. 

Draw a simple floor plan that includes the dimensions of the room, doors, windows, and any fixed features like closets or alcoves. 

This sketch will serve as a guide as you arrange furniture.

  • Take accurate measurements

Measure the dimensions of doors and windows accurately to avoid potential obstacles when placing furniture. 

This step ensures that you don’t inadvertently block entrances or windows with cribs or other items.

  • Factor in nooks, alcoves, and built-ins

Utilize architectural features like nooks, alcoves, or built-in shelves to your advantage. 

These spaces can be repurposed as cozy reading corners, storage areas, breast pumping stations, or decorative displays, adding personality to the room.

  • Divide the nursery room into 4 sections

Dividing the nursery into functional sections helps streamline daily routines. 

Designate areas for sleeping, diaper changing, feeding, and playtime. 

This organization facilitates smooth transitions and keeps the space clutter-free.

Related Article: Best Playpens for Crawling Babies (For Indoor and Outdoor Use)

  • Plan crib and other nursery furniture positions

Strategically position essential furniture to optimize accessibility and flow. 

Place the crib near your designated changing area for convenience during nighttime diaper changes. 

Position the dresser and changing table within easy reach of the crib and feeding nook to create a cohesive layout.

  • Maximize floor space

If space is limited, consider creative solutions to maximize floor space. 

Placing a dresser inside a closet can free up room for other essential items while maintaining a tidy appearance.

  • Determine nursery storage areas

Allocate specific areas for baby essentials like diapers, clothes, and toys. Utilize storage bins, shelves, and drawers to keep everything organized and within reach.

Consider getting cribs with storage and drawers and utilize them for storage.

Check out some baby clothes storage ideas for small spaces here.

  • Consider the room’s view (if available)

If your nursery boasts a pleasant view, orient the crib and seating areas to take advantage of it. 

Natural light and engaging outdoor scenes can create a calming atmosphere.

  • Create a balanced room layout flow

A well-balanced layout allows for easy movement and efficient use of space. 

Arrange furniture so that there’s a clear path between different sections of the nursery, making caregiving tasks and playtime enjoyable and stress-free.

Additional Baby Nursery Tips

Keep the nursery room theme gender-neutral if you’re planning to have more kids.

Prioritize key furniture items like the crib, changing table, dresser, and glider.

Choose lighting that’s soothing and adjustable for different activities – play time, night time, when changing diapers at night, etc. Related Article: When to Stop Changing Diapers At Night

Consider safety measures for a toddler: Plan for when your baby becomes an active toddler and starts climbing anywhere and everywhere! Related Article: Best Climbing Toys Babies and Toddlers

FAQ on Crib Placement and Nursery Layout Ideas

Where should a crib be placed in a nursery?

The crib in a nursery should be placed away from windows, cords, and hanging decorations, ensuring a safe and comfortable distance from potential hazards.

How should you layout a nursery?

You should layout a nursery by dividing the space into functional sections like sleeping, diapering, feeding, and playing while ensuring efficient furniture placement and maximizing floor space.
Related Article: Best Non Toxic Play Mats

Where not to place a baby crib?

You should not place a baby crib near windows, cords, or anything that could pose a strangulation or falling hazard.

How do you arrange a baby crib?

Arrange the baby crib so that ideally, one side is against the wall, keeping it free from hanging decorations, and ensuring it’s easily accessible from your designated changing and feeding areas.

Crib Placement and Nursery Layout Ideas: Bottomline

Designing a nursery is a heartfelt endeavor that combines aesthetics with functionality. 

By carefully considering crib placement and nursery layout ideas, you can create a serene and clutter-free bonding space for you and your baby.

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights to embark on this joyful journey.

I hope you find this article useful. If you like this guide, then make sure to check out my article on Best Convertible Cribs (That Are Worth The Money!), Best Mini Cribs for Small Spaces (Save Money and Room!), and The Ultimate List of Newborn Baby Care Tips For New Moms.