Nursery Dresser Guide: Picking the Perfect Piece for Your Baby's Room

Setting up a nursery means you’ll need somewhere to stash clothes, blankets and those tiny socks you keep losing. A good nursery dresser does more than just hold stuff – it sets the tone for the whole room. Below you’ll get practical advice on size, safety, style and price, so you can pick a dresser that works for you and your little one.

Size and Layout: Fit the Dresser into Your Space

First, measure the wall where you plan to put the dresser. Leave at least 10‑15 cm of breathing room on each side – this prevents the piece from feeling cramped and makes cleaning easier. If your nursery is small, a tall, narrow dresser can give you plenty of drawers without hogging floor space. For larger rooms, a wide, low dresser works well because it doubles as a changing surface when you add a changing pad on top.

Think about the height of the drawers, too. You’ll be reaching in most of the time, so the top drawer should be no higher than your elbow when you’re standing. That way you won’t have to stretch or bend over awkwardly, and you’ll keep your back happy.

Safety First: What to Look For

Safety is non‑negotiable. Choose a dresser with a smooth finish and rounded edges – no sharp corners that could nip a crawling baby. Check that the wood or MDF is sturdy; flimsy pieces can wobble and become a tipping hazard. The best move is to secure the dresser to the wall with anti‑tip brackets (most retailers include them or sell them cheap online).

Also, avoid dressers with decorative hardware that could come loose. Simple knobs or pulls are safer and easier to clean. If you’re buying a second‑hand dresser, give it a good inspection: tighten any loose screws, sand rough spots, and apply a non‑toxic finish before you bring it home.

Lastly, consider the finish. Low‑VOC paints or water‑based stains keep the air in the nursery fresh. Babies spend a lot of time close to their furniture, so a child‑friendly finish is a smart investment.

When it comes to style, you don’t have to sacrifice looks for function. Neutral colours like soft greys, whites or pastel blues blend well with most themes, while a pop of colour on the drawer fronts can become a cute accent. If you love a particular theme – say, woodland or nautical – you can paint the dresser yourself or add removable stickers for a personalized touch.

Budget-wise, compare prices across a few stores and watch for sales. Mid‑range dressers often give you the best mix of durability and design. If you’re tight on cash, consider a flat‑pack option and assemble it yourself; this can shave off a lot of cost and still give a sturdy result.

In short, a nursery dresser should fit your space, be safe for a curious child, match your style and stay within your budget. With these pointers in mind, you’ll find a piece that makes diaper changes smoother, bedtime routines quicker, and the whole room look tidy. Happy decorating!