Nursery Organization: Tried and True Tips from a Pro

Call it organizing. Call it nesting. We call it fun! But we’ve also found that nursery organization changes as babies get older, which can also make it a little tricky.

That’s why we asked a professional organizer Kate Hackl for her tried and true nursery organization tips.

She’s offering ways to make sure this special space stays in tip-top shape as your baby grows.

Keep reading to learn how to organize your baby’s nursery through every stage!

How to Create the PERFECT Changing Station

A changing station is necessary no matter the age of your baby.

But you don’t have to have a lot of space, or even an official “changing table,” to stay organized.

“If you don’t have a ton of room to store diapers, I always recommend using vertical space when necessary,” Kate said. “Create a system on your wall or on the back of a closet door if needed. Just be sure to have it well-stocked.”

No changing table? No problem! Any flat surface will do, including dressers.

Also, consider skipping the diaper pail, which can often cause unpleasant odors to linger.

Instead, use LinnieLou Diaper Sacks. They allow you to dispose of diapers away from the nursery, in your trashcan. They are easy to tie, seal in wetness and have a gentle baby powder scent that helps with odor.

How to Organize Clothing

Kate recommends organizing clothing by age/size.

“One of the easiest ways to do this is by having labeled clothing dividers,” she said. “Babies tend to outgrow their clothes quickly, and a great way to make sure they are wearing all of those cute outfits is by properly organizing by size/month.

Kate said you can find clothing dividers pretty much anywhere baby products are sold, including Amazon, Buy Buy Baby, and Target.

She suggests dividing clothing in these increments:

• 0-6 months
• 6-12 months
• 12-18 months

“If you want to be more thorough, you can divide them up by every three months,” she said.

But a word of caution: when it comes to organization, the simpler the better. Over-complicated systems are harder to stick to.

We also suggest keeping a box nearby for the clothing your baby can no longer wear. When it’s full, donate it or store it for a future child.

How to Utilize Bins and Baskets

“Storage bins or baskets will be your best friend,” Kate said. “They can be both decorative and functional.”

And a bonus? They can grow WITH your baby.

“We’ve had the same beautiful Pottery Barn Kids basket since my daughter (who is now 2) was born, and I don’t see us outgrowing it anytime soon.”

Kate said bins/baskets can be used for:

• Blankets
• Stuffed Animals
• Toys/Dolls

Kate also points out that bins/baskets are portable, which they can be used in multiple rooms as your child matures. (That bin that once held blankets, for example, can now be used for toys in the playroom.)

BONUS TIP: Closet Organization

A nursery closet can get quickly unorganized without systems in place, which is why Kate recommends adding a removable shelving unit.

“As hard as you may try not to accumulate a bunch of things, sometimes it just happens,” Kate said. “Having additional storage in your closet will help keep everything more contained and manageable.

Wrapping Up

To keep your baby’s nursery organized through every stage:

• Create a changing station, and if you’re short on space, consider storing diapers on wall shelving or on the back of a closet door
• Purchase bins that can be used for multiple items through multiple stages
• Organize clothing by age/size, and use labeled clothing dividers
• Purchase a removable shelving unit for the nursery closet

Seasoned parents, do you have any more tips for organizing your nursery? If so, comment below.