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Baby Nurseries 101: Setting It Up Right In Your New York Home

(credit: Thinkstock)
(credit: Thinkstock)

Life can be hectic in the fast-paced world of New York City living. Add preparing for a baby's arrival to the normal frenzied days, and new impending parents can be filled with total confusion. Anxious parents-to-be are working hard to get the nursery ready for their bundle of joy. Where do you even begin such a project? Following are some tips for surviving the preparation of your newborn.

1. Clean and prep. Make sure your nursery room is cleaned and ready to go. Use organic cleaning products to ensure a safe and clean environment. When painting, use low VOC paints with reduced toxins. These benefit everyone, especially those sensitive to allergies and chemicals. If replacing carpet, choose an eco-friendly carpet with low VOC as well.

2. Have fun choosing colors. No longer is it just pink for girls and blue for boys. Gender neutral colors are the biggest rage these days. A sage or beige color will neutralize and tone down other colors to make the room attractive for any gender.

3. Don't go baby overboard. The baby years will fly by and you will end up with a whiny toddler screaming that he or she is too "big" for the baby wallpaper. If you insist on having a wall covering, there are fun wall murals and decals that can be easily removed and changed. Keep the windows simple; use clean, black-out shades that can be easily vacuumed. Make sure the cords are not within reach of toddlers.

4. Pick a safe crib. Cribs should have fixed side rails because adjustable side rails have been banned for safety reasons. Purchase a very firm mattress that fits perfectly snug in the crib to prevent the baby from getting wedged between the mattress and crib. Check all screws and hardware regularly to make sure they are always tightened. Choose the appropriate bedding to ensure your baby is comfortable and safe. To prevent suffocation, never place any plush soft bedding, pillows or stuffed toys in the crib with the baby.

5. Don't forget about mom and dad. 
It is important to have a cozy spot to feed the baby and sing them nursery rhymes. There are gliding chairs now made specifically for the nursery. Rocking chairs are the great old-fashioned nursery standard. Find a rocking chair in a thrift shop that can be painted in fun colors and add a cushion for comfort. A comfy chair and ottoman can be wonderful as well, if you have the space. Include a soft table lamp and night light to turn on without waking the sleeping baby.

The following local businesses may be able to help you get started.

Albee Baby
715 Amsterdam Ave
New York, NY 10025
(212) 662-7337
www.albeebaby.com

Albee Baby has everything you need to create the ultimate nursery. Browse the website before visiting to get an idea of what to include in your baby's room.

Mini Jake
178 N 9th St
Brooklyn, NY 11211
(718) 782-2005
www.minijake.com

Mini Jake has the best in bedding for your little one. Choose one of its many options to give your baby a cute, safe place to dream away.

Beyond the Wall
19 Fulton St
New York, NY 10038
(212) 608-6410
shop.beyondthewall.com

Decorate the walls with designs from Beyond the wall. Use wall stickers, tattoos and decals all found at this store to add that extra touch to your baby's new room.

Related: The Benefits Of Hiring A Pro To Childproof Your Home
Related: Play With The Kids By Building A Playground In New York

For more great tricks, tips and advice about your home, visit CBSNewYork.com/YourHome.

Carol Ruth Weber began her career as a Theatrical Costume and Set Designer and segued into the world of Interior Design. As an interior designer she has twenty-eight years of experience in all phases of the business. You can read more of her work on Examiner.com and she can also be contacted at WeberLifeDesign.

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