Creating the best baby room setup for sleep goes beyond aesthetics. A well-designed space supports your newborn’s sleep, encourages healthy sleep habits, and follows safe sleep guidelines backed by SIDS Australia
Sleep-Friendly Baby Room at a Glance
- Soft lighting + blackout blinds = better melatonin
- Use white noise to reduce outside disruptions
- Avoid clutter and overstimulation
- Follow SIDS guidelines: firm mattress, no loose bedding
Creating the Best Baby Room Set Up for Sleep
When you’re expecting a new addition to the family, setting up a baby room is an exciting part of preparing for your baby’s arrival. This space will become your sanctuary, where your baby will start to develop their earliest sleep habits. Therefore, it’s essential to create a baby room that is both visually appealing and functional—especially when it comes to promoting sleep. Below are key elements to include that will help your baby settle and sleep more peacefully.
1. Choose Calming Colors
Soft, pastel or neutral tones like lavender, mint, or soft grey create a peaceful atmosphere. Avoid stimulating patterns or overly bright wall art which can overwhelm a newborn’s senses.
2. Use Soft Lighting
Avoid overhead lights. Use a warm-toned bedside lamp with a 60-watt bulb or less. For night feeds, a red nightlight (20–24 watts) will allow you to see without overstimulating your baby. Avoid cool white or blue-toned light. Try our white noise machine with integrated red night light
3. Opt for Blackout Blinds or Curtains
Use portable blackout blinds to reduce light exposure and support your baby’s circadian rhythm. These are especially useful for naps and early bedtimes.
4. Use a Sound Machine
White noise reduces external disruptions. Our Lullababy SOS Sound Machine includes 26 soothing options. Keep volume under 70dBA and place the unit away from the cot.
5. Arrange the Furniture Carefully
Keep the crib away from windows and vents. Ensure airflow on most sides. Don’t place climbable furniture near the cot.
6. Avoid Clutter
Use drawers, baskets, and shelves to minimize visual noise. Replace change tables with a change mat on a dresser. Keep only the essentials visible.
7. Choose a Comfortable Mattress
Choose a snug-fitting, firm, and breathable crib mattress. Avoid blankets, bumpers, pillows, or soft toys.
8. Comfortable Feeding Chair
Choose one that supports your back with room for baby. Keep a small table nearby with snacks, water, burp cloths, and chargers.
9. Create a Calming Bedtime Routine
Begin with a bath, massage, feed, and then a quiet story before cuddles. Keep it consistent.
Baby Room Essentials for Sleep
- Crib or bassinet: Meets safety standards and fits mattress snugly
- Crib mattress: Firm, non-toxic, snug fitting
- Fitted crib sheets: Soft, breathable, and safe
- Swaddle blankets or sleep sacks: Choose breathable, size-appropriate options
- Sound machine: Variety of calming sounds at safe volume
- Blackout Blinds: Opaque, easy to install, blocks light
- Night light: Adjustable, warm-toned, not overly bright
- Feeding chair & table: For overnight feeding ease
- Baby monitor: With temperature monitoring and clear audio/video
- Change station: Mat on dresser instead of bulky table
Following SIDS Australia Safe Sleep Guidelines
- Always place baby on their back to sleep
- Use a firm, flat mattress
- Avoid pillows, bumpers, and blankets
- Maintain room temperature between 16–24°C
Read more from SIDS Australia
Final Thoughts
Creating a sleep-supportive nursery doesn’t have to be complicated. A few key changes—blackout blinds, white noise, and a consistent routine—go a long way.
Remember, every baby is different. Don’t stress if your setup needs a few tweaks. You’re learning together.
Want help setting up the ideal sleep space or bedtime routine? Book a consultation or explore our trusted baby sleep products today.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What colors are best for a baby room?
When designing a baby room setup for sleep, it’s best to stick with soothing tone that are neutral, or pastel colors, such as light blues, greens, greys or lavenders. These colors are known to create a calming environment and are more likely to promote sleep.
How can I keep my baby’s room at a comfortable temperature?
It’s recommended to keep your baby’s room at a comfortable temperature for sleep. The ideal temperature is between 16°c and 22°c Generally, in Australia I aim for a little warmer than the standard recommendation, as we are a warmer climate, and 16°C for many Australians feels really cold, so I aim for 18–24°C in Australia You can use a room thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust it as needed. Link to My What to dress baby in Guide
What is the best mattress for a baby’s crib?
A firm, breathable mattress is best for your baby’s crib. I love the Airnest. Make sure it fits snugly in the crib to prevent any gaps that could pose a safety hazard. Also, choose a mattress cover that is breathable and easy to clean in case of accidents, Generally, I don’t recommend waterproof as these will usually have a plastic impenetrable material for liquids,s and this means not breathable.
What are some baby room decorating ideas for a small space?
If you have a small space to work with, there are still plenty of baby room decorating ideas to create a cozy environment. Use multipurpose furniture, such as a changing table that doubles as a dresser, and take advantage of vertical space with wall-mounted storage. Consider using a wall mural or large mirror to add visual interest without taking up valuable floor space.
How do I create a calming environment for my baby’s sleep?
To create a calming environment for your baby’s sleep, use blackout curtains to block out light and a white noise machine to drown out any distracting sounds. Choose soft, soothing colors for the walls and use gentle lighting. Keep the room clutter-free and well-organized to create a peaceful space for your baby to rest.
What are some tips for setting up a baby nursery on a budget?
Setting up a baby’s room for sleep on a budget is possible with a little creativity. Look for secondhand furniture and decor items at thrift stores or online marketplaces. DIY projects can also be a cost-effective way to add personalised touches to the room. Prioritise essential items and save money by repurposing items you already have or borrowing from friends and family.
Best white noise machine?
One with a variety of sounds a warm night light for overnight feeding and a red-light nightlight. Bonus points for compact rechargeable and portable. Need one that ticks all these boxes Click HERE