As I settled into our new home, the reality of creating a nursery in what was initially my home office didn’t seem daunting at first. But as we began to grow our family, the need for a functional diaper station became clear. With limited space to work with, I had to get creative and prioritize the essentials. It’s amazing how much can be achieved in even the smallest of spaces when you think outside the box.
Here are my go-to items for creating a diaper station that thrives in a compact area, hopefully serving as inspiration for your own nursery planning endeavors.
A Small Dresser
When it comes to outfitting a nursery, many people opt for separate dressers and changing tables. However, I firmly believe that this approach is unnecessary and even wasteful. By repurposing a dresser as a changing table, you can save valuable space and money. To do so, simply secure your changing pad on top of the dresser. In our case, we chose a small mirrored chest due to the constraints of our smaller nursery.
I also wanted a gender-neutral piece that could work for both my son’s nursery and future nurseries for potential daughters (who knows!). It’s worth noting that dressers can be precarious when babies start climbing and exploring, so make sure to anchor yours firmly to the wall to prevent any accidents.
Clever Organization
To keep my nursery tidy and functional, I’ve opted for a minimalist approach with my small dresser. Only the absolute essentials get top billing: lotion, diaper rash cream, and sunscreen. A charming tray from Home Goods corralles these must-haves behind a beautiful display of faux florals and Freshly Picked moccasins – a thoughtful touch that adds visual appeal to the space. When it comes to storing actual diapers and wipes, I’ve designated the top drawer as the go-to spot for easy access.
For backup supplies like extra diapers, wipes, and Diaper Genie refill packs, my closet features a clever cubby system. I highly recommend adopting a similar storage strategy in your own nursery, whether that’s using drawers or a cubby system. The payoff is a clutter-free zone that makes the most of limited space. If you’re nursing, don’t forget to prioritize organization for your breast-pumping essentials.
A compact nursing cart can be a lifesaver, keeping everything you need within arm’s reach while also preserving valuable floor space.
A Compact Diaper Genie
We’ve been loyal customers to the Diaper Genie Complete Assembled Pail since our first child’s arrival, and when we had our second, there was no question about sticking with what works best. This classic design has stood the test of time, and for good reason – its built-in antimicrobial carbon filter effectively absorbs and locks in strong odors, eliminating any unpleasant smells.
In fact, I’ve seen friends opt for trendy alternatives only to be disappointed by their performance, whereas this tried-and-true pail delivers on containment. I’m also a fan of its compact design, which makes it easy to incorporate into even the smallest nurseries, and the variety of colors available ensures we can choose an option that fits our space’s aesthetic. Moreover, this diaper pail is incredibly user-friendly – no hands are required, making it perfect for busy parents!
We pick up refills during our weekly Target run, and the slim profile means it won’t overwhelm even the most minimalist nursery setup.
Diaper Station Essentials for a Small Space
In the context of a compact nursery, it’s essential to adopt a minimalist approach. Rather than accumulating an array of products, focus on selecting the most critical items that will make a significant difference in the space. By being strategic with your organization and prioritizing essentials, you can create a cozy and functional environment that perfectly suits your needs.