A nursery is a special place that deserves thoughtful organization. With a new baby on the way, parents have a lot to prepare. Organizing the nursery not only creates a calm environment for baby, but also makes day-to-day tasks easier on sleep-deprived parents.
Storage is key when tackling nursery clutter. The right storage solutions can neatly contain all of baby’s supplies while adding style to the space. From dressers and closet organizers to storage ottomans and wall shelves, there are many attractive options to consider.
Here are 25 nursery storage ideas to help organize clutter in style:
Use Decorative Storage Baskets and Bins
Baskets and bins are versatile items that corral clutter while bringing a decorative touch. They come in a variety of materials like rattan, wood, fabric, and wire. Use them to store:
- Burp cloths, extra blankets, and linens
- Bath and grooming supplies
- Diapers, wipes, and changing pad
- Toys and books
- Extra clothes and accessories
Wicker baskets with liner inserts are great for separating items. Labeled bins keep things easy to identify. Covered baskets hide clutter. Choose baskets in colors and textures that coordinate with your nursery’s decor. Stack them neatly on open shelves or slide them under furniture.
Display Books in a Wall-Mounted Bookcase
Installing a wall-mounted bookcase or floating shelves provides visible storage to show off baby’s book collection. Choose a bookcase with multiple shelves so books can be organized by age range or reading stage.
Safely secure the bookcase to the wall studs to prevent it from tipping over. Display cherished books like baby’s name book, a baby memory book, or favorite bedtime stories on the shelves. The bookcase can also hold special toys, picture frames, or other nursery decor.
Use Cubbies for Organized Storage
Cubbies provide dedicated spaces to stash supplies. The cubby’s compartments neatly separate clutter into organized sections. Use cubbies to store:
- Different categories of toys
- Art and craft supplies
- Bottles, pacifiers, and extra sippy cups
- Hats, mittens, socks, and other small clothing items
Cubbies come in stand-alone furniture pieces, canvas organizers, and wall-mounted systems. Labeled canvas bins help identify what goes where. Open cubbies work for toys and items used daily. Doors or curtains provide a tidy appearance.
Utilize Nursery Closet Organization Systems
The nursery closet offers prime real estate for clearing clutter. Maximize this space with closet organization systems like:
- Hanging organizers for clothes, accessories, and shoes
- Shelving units for diapering supplies, toys, and extra gear
- Drawers for clothing, blankets, and linens
- Baskets, bins, and cubbies for smaller items
Install closet systems that make the most of vertical space. Shelves built up to the ceiling hold more. Consider choosing white or other light, neutral colors so the space feels open and clean.
Use a Dresser with Drawers and Changing Topper
A dresser is a nursery necessity that handles two jobs in one piece of furniture. The drawers neatly store clothing and other baby items. Adding a changing topper provides an easy diaper station.
Opt for a dresser with at least four to six spacious drawers. Divided drawers help separate items like bibs, socks, jammies, and onesies. A contour changing pad on top creates a safe spot for diaper duty. Some toppers include storage shelves for diapering supplies.
Store and Display with Wall-Mounted Shelves
Wall shelves are a space-saving storage solution that keeps items visible and within easy reach. Mount wooden shelves in cluster arrangements forDisplay books, toys, framed photos, and decorative accents.
Use baskets, bins, or boxes on the shelves to neatly corral smaller goods like grooming supplies and rattles. Floating wall shelves work in any small space. Staggered heights create an interesting look.
Use a Toy Chest or Storage Ottoman
A toy chest or storage ottoman provides a tidy spot to stash toys when not in use. The lidded design contains clutter so the nursery stays orderly. Buy one upholstered in a soft, durable fabric that coordinates with the room’s decor. Look for safety features like ventilation holes and hinge protectors on toy chests.
Lift-top storage ottomans have interior space to hold toys, books, blankets, and other nursery necessities. Use one upholstered in plush velvet or microsuede as a nursing chair footstool too. The hands-free opening mechanism makes access easy.
Install Wall-Mounted Coat Racks and Hooks
Babies and toddlers need easy access to their coats, hats, and bags when getting ready to head out. Mounting coat racks or hooks along the nursery walls keeps these items handy without taking up floor space.
Opt for coat racks with adjustable arms to accommodate growing children. Hooks work for lighter items like jackets and hats. Use several hooks clustered creatively on a wall to hang multiple pieces. Position racks and hooks near the nursery entryway for convenience.
Utilize Under-Crib Storage
Maximize unused space under the crib by installing storage. Look for under-crib drawers or shelving units that smoothly roll or slide out for access to contents. These are great for stashing:
- Extra crib sheets and mattress covers
- Swaddle blankets, burp cloths, and extra quilts
- Sleep sacks, wearable blankets, and extra crib netting
- Diapers and travel changing pad for middle-of-the-night changes
Safely secure under-crib storage to prevent any risk of tipping. Measure carefully to ensure the perfect fitted size.
Use Acrylic Wall-Mounted Shelves
Clear acrylic shelving creates floating displays perfect for showing off nursery treasures while keeping them dust-free. The invisible look makes displayed items appear suspended in air.
Use acrylic shelves to stage:
- Special stuffed animals, picture frames, and decorative objects
- Pretty hair accessories, bows, and headbands
- Books and artfully arranged baby shoes
Look for acrylic shelves with built-in lips or guards to securely hold items in place. LED lights installed in shelves create a fun glow effect.
Organize Diapering Supplies in Rolling Carts
A rolling cart is a game changer for diaper duty. Stock the cart with all the essentials and just roll it right up to the changing area when needed. Then stash it out of the way when done.
Narrow carts tuck into tight nursery spaces, ready for next use. Choose one with shelves and baskets to hold:
- Diapers, wipes, creams, and changing pads
- Diaper pail bags and refills
- Ointments, cotton balls, and grooming tools
- Extra change of clothes and burp cloths
Labels help identify contents at a glance. Locking wheels keep it stationary when in use.
Use Wall-Mounted Diaper Caddies
Wall-mounted diaper caddies or organizers provide quick access to diapering supplies wherever you need them. Install them right within arm’s reach of the changing table. Or mount one in the bathroom or master bedroom for overnight changes.
Diaper caddies feature open shelves, drawers, and closed bins to keep all the necessities at your fingertips. Use handy pouches to hold small items like creams. Some organizing systems include a built-in changing pad.
Add Cabinet Doors to Open Shelving
Dress up open nursery shelving and neatly hide clutter by adding cabinet doors. Choose doors framed with attractive wood that coordinates with the room’s style. Opt for doors with large cuts outs or wire mesh panels to allow some visibility of contents.
Use behind-the-door storage organizers inside cabinet doors to maximize space. These can hold items like:
- Extra bottles, pacifiers, and baby gear
- First aid and healthcare supplies
- Diapers, wipes, creams, and grooming tools
- Burp cloths, extra blankets, and extra clothes
Use Decorative Woven Baskets for Blanket Storage
Pretty woven baskets make attractive blanket storage for any nursery. Choose colorful and textured baskets made from materials like seagrass, rattan, and bamboo. These natural fiber baskets are both durable and breathable, ideal for holding folded quilts and blankets.
Stack baskets in tower arrangements to hold:
- Swaddle blankets of different weights
- Extra quilts and travel blankets
- Burp cloths, sleeping bags, and washcloths
Decorative lids or basket tops keep contents dust-free while adding style. Arrange baskets on open shelving or in the closet.
Add Cabinetry for Concealed Storage
For a clean, concealed look, add cabinetry pieces that tuck away clutter behind doors. Useful options include:
- Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry flanking the crib
- Built-in bookcases with storage cabinets below
- A hutch with drawers and cabinets
- Armoires and wardrobes for massive storage
Such substantial cabinet pieces tend to stay in place, so they are ideal for holding larger gear like strollers, baby carriers, spare bedding, and extra clothing and shoes. Concealing clutter helps maintain a serene environment.
Use Storage Benches and Ottomans
Dual-purpose storage benches and ottomans provide both seating and hidden storage. Lift the lid to stash items inside. Use them to store:
- Spare bedding, blankets, and pillows
- Off-season clothing items like coats and snowsuits
- Extra gear like baby monitors and sound machines
- Toys, books, and electronics
Upholstered styles work well at the foot of a crib or nursing chair. Square and cube shapes fit neatly in corners. Nesting ottomans save space.
Add Drawers Under Crib or Changing Table
For instant extra storage, add rolling drawers underneath cribs or changing tables. The deep drawers provide plenty of hidden space for bulky bedding and supplies.
Use crib drawers to organize:
- Fitted sheets, mattress pads, crib skirts, and waterproof liners
- Sleep sacks, swaddle blankets, and extra crib sheets
- Bassinet or travel crib sheets and accessories
Changing table drawers allow storing diapers, wipes, creams, pads, and other diapering essentials right at hand. Securely attach rolling drawers to furniture to prevent accidental pulling out.
Utilize Vertical Wall Space with Ledges
Wall-mounted ledges utilize vertical space that typically goes unused. These narrow, shallow shelves are great for displaying nursery decor in a creative way.
Use wall ledges to stage:
- Artwork, picture frames, and wall decals
- Pretty jars, vases, bowls, or cups
- Books, baby frames, and cherished toys
- Live or faux plants and flowers
Stagger floating wall ledges at various heights on a wall. Style them creatively above the crib or changing table.
Add Tension Rod Closet Storage
Tension shower curtain rods and shelving installed in nursery and bedroom closets create instant storage space. The adjustable rods allow tailoring shelf heights around existing closet rods and shelves.
Use tension rod storage for:
- Folding and organizing baby clothes
- Extra gear like sound machines and humidifiers
-containing clutter - Seasonal clothing storage like coats and snowsuits
- Bottles, toys, books, and other supplies
Choose metal tension rods with rubber ends that grip tightly and won’t slip. Remove and adjust easily as needed.
Use Decorative Drawer Organizers
Inside dresser drawers, containers like dividers, trays, and inserts create organized compartments for nursery gear, clothes, and supplies. Look for removable organizers that allow customizing the configuration.
Use drawer organizers to separate:
- Socks, hats, mittens, and other small items
- Bibs, burp cloths, washcloths, and rattles
- Diapers, wipes, creams, and healthcare supplies
- Jammies, onesies, t-shirts, and other clothing
Labels help identify contents at a glance. Non-slip liners keep organizers securely in place once configured inside drawers.
Stack Identical Baskets or Boxes
Lining up identical baskets, bins, or storage boxes creates a streamlined, uniform look. Stacking them vertically utilizes height efficiently.
Use stacked basket storage to neatly arrange:
- Toys like blocks, balls, rings, and stuffed animals
- Books organized by age range or reading stage
- Arts and crafts supplies like crayons, paper, and scissors
- Bath accessories like towels, washcloths, and bath toys
Opt for baskets or bins with the same shape, size, and color for a cohesive scheme. Labels identify contents.
Hang Storage Pockets and Wall Files
Wall-mounted storage pockets create space to organize office and paperwork. Nursery closets are ideal real estate for adhering storage pockets. Use them to file:
- Itemized monthly and yearly baby budgets
- Pediatrician records with vaccination history
- Baby milestone tracking sheets and growth charts
- Completed baby milestone cards and important documents
- Shopping and to-do lists, calendars, and journals
Multipocket wall files keep papers neatly separated and easy to identify. Colorful fabric pockets add a decorative touch.
Use Peg Boards for Visual Storage
Peg boards keep favorite nursery items visible and within reach. Mount one securely on a wall and use pegs or hooks to display:
- Hats, coats, and scarves
- Baby carriers like slings, wraps, and front carriers
- Mobiles, toys, and accessories
- Pacifiers, teethers, and baby healthcare tools
Outline nursery shapes or words using colored pegs for a fun effect. Position the board nearby the crib, changing, or play areas for convenience.
Add Shelves Above Doors
Another out-of-the-way spot ideal for storage is the wall space above doors. Install floating ledges or wall-mounted shelves overhead to hold:
- Books, picture frames, and wall art
- Pretty decorations like flower pots or mini vignettes
- Neatly folded extra blankets and burp clothes
- Diapering supplies, grooming tools, and healthcare essentials
Stagger the shelves at different levels for a decorative ladder effect. Use slender ledges for lightweight items. Deeper shelves hold more.
Use Storage Chests and Trunks
Storage chests and trunks add vintage farmhouse charm while concealing clutter. Use a chest at the foot of the crib to store extra bedding, toys, and clothing. Opt for safety features like ventilation holes and lid supports.
Look for storage trunks with:
- Drawers to neatly organize contents
- Interior removable trays and dividers
- Wheels for easy mobility around the nursery
Soft upholstered lids with padding make a comfy extra seat. Add chic style with options like leather, crocodile embossing, or distressed finishes.
Hang Extra Gear from Ceiling Racks
Out of the way overhead, sturdy ceiling-mounted racks create space to hang extra nursery gear like:
- Baby swings, bouncers, and hammocks
- Play mats and tummy time accessories
- Dangling toys and play gyms
Ceiling racks allow clearing floor space and keep essentials readily accessible. Look for solid steel racks with a high weight capacity. Use multiple hooks to disperse weight evenly.
Use Dummy Cams for Concealed Storage
For a fun hidden surprise, use fake security cameras that conceal small cubbies behind the “lens.” Hide tiny treasures inside like pacifiers, teethers, small toys, and hair accessories.
Position dummy cams on nursery walls or above doorways. Let older kids enjoy finding the secret stashes. The fake cameras look like real home surveillance devices, adding playful whimsy and decor.
Organize Bathroom Cabinets with Lazy Susans
Spinning “lazy Susan” turntables are handy for organizing cramped nursery and bathroom cabinets. They neatly corral bottles, towels, bath toys, grooming supplies, and healthcare essentials.
Lazy susans maximize corner cabinet space. Spin to easily access every item. Some feature built-in compartments for divided storage. Label dividers to identify contents.
Plastic or wooden turntables prevent slipping and spilling. Their smooth spin makes grabbing even small items easy despite tight quarters. Keep cabinets clutter-free.
FAQs About Nursery Storage Ideas
How can I add storage to my small nursery?
In small nurseries, go vertical with wall-mounted shelving, floating ledges, and wall hooks. Use stackable storage furniture like cubes and nesting tables. Clear acrylic furnishings and open storage maintain the visual space. Under-crib drawers and tension rods in closets maximize every inch.
Should nursery storage have doors or be open?
It’s an aesthetic preference. Open storage displays items accessibly, while doors neatly conceal clutter. For safety, ensure open shelving is firmly secured to walls. Use restraints on open media consoles and bookcases. Doors help hide mess but require opening to access contents.
What safety tips should I know about nursery storage?
Secure all furniture to the wall to prevent tipping. Use storage furniture that meets current US safety standards. Avoid old hand-me-down dressers placed on carpets. Ensure storage chests have ventilation and lid supports to prevent entrapment. Install babyproofing locks once mobile.
Where should I put blankets and bedding?
Use breathable storage like woven baskets and fabric bins for blankets to prevent mildew. Store crib sheets and mattress covers in under-crib