As loving parents, we all want what’s best for our babies.  We want them to have a bright, colorful room, which inspires creativity, as well as all the latest smart toys, which encourages education.  We also want them to be well-protected, and so we carpet everything and put foam on every sharp corner and even build a pen around the entire nursery—locking out all danger.

Of course, you have to consider the cost of all this “inspiration” and “protection.”  Intellicot baby cribs and diamond encrusted Barbie dolls don’t come cheap, after-all.

So for those of us on a budget, but still want the very best nursery for our young ones, here are a few ideas that won’t break the bank:

Change the Wall Color

It’s the easiest way to change the look and feel of a room.  And you don’t need to use paint, either.  Paint usually leaves an awful, chemical smell that lingers for days after you’ve painted the room, and paint also includes chemicals that can be prove harmful—and even deadly—to your babies delicate respiratory system.  Instead of painting, we recommend brightening up the room with wall graphic stickers or even repurposing artwork that you have around the house.  It’s safer for your baby and the environment.

If you have hardwood, get a rug

While carpeting is generally the less expensive choice for flooring, it also holds a higher risk of contamination (from dust and allergens that become trapped in the fibers).  However, hardwood planks and stone tiles can be just as inexpensive if you opt to find them in a reclaimed state rather than buying brand new.  And you can purchase hypo-allergenic throw rugs as a way to add some padding.

Join the Baby Registry

The baby registry is one of the best ways you can decorate the nursery for less.  By throwing a baby shower and referring guests to the registry (at the store of your choice) you may be able to get many of the accessories (and even furnishings) that you want in your baby’s room.  Also, try encouraging guest to give gift cards.  That way if you don’t get what you want, you can also go buy it yourself.

Buy Furniture at a Garage Sale

The crib, changing table, and other items of furniture for the nursery will likely comprise the majority of expenses; but they don’t have to be overly expensive.  While many new parents are drawn in by the idea of getting the best for their baby, you shouldn’t allow yourself to be overcharged by vendors who will use this sentiment to bilk you of more than the items are really worth.  Instead, look at garage sales, second-hand stores, and even sites like Craigslist for lightly used items at less cost.  You’ll be surprised at what you can find for a deal.

Ditto for the Accessories

Although you will almost certainly want some items new (plush toys and bedding, for example), many of the items that will decorate your child’s nursery need not be straight off the assembly line.  Lamps, mirrors, and other accessories can be bought second-hand and spruced up, while toys, books, and mobiles that aren’t received as gifts may also come from alternative sources like friends whose children have outgrown them, or even garage sales.

Sarah Danielson writes for BluWiki. Aside from finding discounts on baby products and also finds Oil of Olay Coupons and Maggiano’s Little Italy Coupons.

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