The flutter of tiny kicks, the dreaming of little toes – expecting a baby is a time filled with immense joy and a whirlwind of preparation. While you're busy picking out adorable outfits and setting up the nursery, don't forget the foundational elements of your home! Your flooring, cabinets, and window coverings play a significant role in creating a safe, comfortable, and functional environment for your growing family.
At Del Mar, we understand the excitement and the to-do lists that come with expecting a baby. That's why we've put together some key updates to consider for your home to ensure it's ready to welcome your little one in style and with practicality in mind.
Flooring: Comfort and Cleanliness Underfoot
As your baby starts to crawl and explore, the flooring becomes their primary playground. Now is an excellent time to evaluate your current flooring and consider options that prioritize comfort, safety, and ease of cleaning:
- Say Goodbye to Sharp Edges and Hard Surfaces: Think about replacing sharp-edged tiles or worn hardwood in high-traffic areas with softer alternatives. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and laminate flooring are excellent choices. They are durable, water-resistant (essential for inevitable spills!), and offer a more forgiving surface for little knees. Plus, many modern LVP options come in beautiful styles that mimic natural wood or stone.
- Embrace Softness with Carpets in Bedrooms: While hard floors are easy to clean, adding soft carpets in nurseries, play areas, and bedrooms rooms provides a cozy and safe space for tummy time and those first wobbly steps. Selecting an excellent pad will make sure baby has a soft landing and will also extend the life of your carpet. Look for options that are waterproof and stain resistant. This is also the time to look at warranty - you need the highest quality carpet to stand up to the demands of little ones.
Cabinets: Functionality and Safety at Every Level
With a new baby comes an influx of supplies – bottles, diapers, wipes, and more! Smart cabinet solutions can make organization a breeze and ensure safety as your little one becomes more mobile:
- Maximize Storage with Clever Cabinetry: Consider adding pull-out drawers, adjustable shelving, and organizers within your existing cabinets. This will make it easier to access items while holding a baby and keep countertops clutter-free.
- Baby-Proofing is Key: Now is the perfect time to install child safety locks on all lower cabinets and drawers, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms. This simple step can prevent accidents and give you peace of mind.
- Think Long-Term Functionality: When considering new cabinetry for a renovation, think beyond the baby years. Opt for durable materials and timeless designs that will adapt to your family's changing needs. Soft-close hinges are a must to prevent slamming fingers as your child grows.
- Cabinetry beyond the kitchen: If you like to keep things nice and tidy, this is the perfect moment to get a custom closet. With storage for toys, clothes, and supplies, the closet will keep your home tidy.
Window Coverings: Light Control and Privacy for Peaceful Moments
Any well rested parent will tell you that creating the right ambiance for naps and ensuring privacy for feeding times are crucial when you have a baby. Your window coverings play a vital role:
- Blackout Solutions for Sleep: Invest in blackout curtains or shades for the nursery and any other rooms where your baby will nap. Blocking out light effectively can help regulate their sleep patterns.
- Consider Cordless Options for Safety: Dangling cords from blinds and curtains can be a strangulation hazard for babies and toddlers. Opt for cordless operating systems or cord cleats to keep cords safely out of reach.
- Easy-to-Clean Materials: Choose window coverings made from materials that are easy to wipe down or machine washable to handle any accidental spills or messes.
- Layer for Versatility: Consider layering window treatments, such as blinds or shades with curtains. This allows you to control both light and privacy effectively throughout the day.
Preparing your home for a new baby is an exciting journey. By considering these updates to your flooring, cabinets, and window coverings, you can create a safe, comfortable, and functional space where your little one can thrive.
At Del Mar, we're here to help you navigate these choices and find the perfect solutions for your growing family. Visit our showroom or contact us today for a consultation! We'd love to be a part of creating your dream family home.
