If you’re expecting, you probably have your hands full with advice for your soon-to-be little one.

But on top of birthing plans, doctor's appointments, lifestyle changes, and stocking up on baby gear, you might be missing something important — home preparation. From organization to nursery decor, there are a few elements that will make your baby’s first year at home a lot smoother while maintaining a stylish look.

Welcome to baby-friendly decorating 101. Here are some of our top design tips to make way for your new arrival.

1. Create the Picture Perfect Nursery

On top of all the necessities — crib, dresser, changing table — it’s smart to add some personality and style to your nursery. Whether you’re going for clean lines and soft wood or bright colors and themed decor, choose items that are easy to clean and can grow with your child.

Don’t feel pressured to go for the traditional baby themes, like alphabets or animals. The first few years are your opportunity to design as you please — before your opinionated toddler wants a say. Look beyond the standard baby decor and seek out unique or vintage accessories that speak to you.

2. Make a Baby Space in Every Room

Most new parents focus their design energy on the nursery. While it’s exciting to give your nursery a top to bottom makeover for your little one, keep in mind that you’re not going to be locked in the baby’s room forever. Over time, they’ll want to venture into the rest of the house too.

In each room, try to create a baby-friendly corner. Sometimes this means rearranging furniture for more crawling space or putting down a soft rug and pillows for the baby to comfortably play.

3. Baby Proof Everything

Yes, we mean everything. Your baby will be crawling all over the home, which means anything breakable needs to be put away or placed on high shelves. Cap any sharp corners, keep cords wrapped together and off the floor, and take away any choking hazards.

4. Optimize Your Organizational Decor

Organize, organize, organize. In just a few months, your house could be completely overtaken by baby gear. From toys to books to baby wipes, you need a tasteful and stylish way to stow them away.

For example, a trendy storage chest can keep toys hidden away, while keeping them easy to reach when your baby needs them. Instead of a playpen, try designating a plush, textured carpet or colorful cushions as a space for your baby to play.

5. Embrace Flexibility

The key to prepping your home decor for a new baby is to focus on flexibility. As your baby grows and enters into different stages of life, their needs will change from room to room.

This can include function, but also style. What looks stunning in a baby nursery might not work for a growing toddler’s room — you want something that feels right for your baby but also feels timeless.

Preparing For Your New Baby With Style

Whether you’re doing a bit of rearranging or a full-on rehaul of your nursery, these design tips can help you transform your home from a grown-up zone to a haven for your new baby.

If you want to make sure your baby-proof decor grows with your child, it might be time to consider adding a barn door for closing off toy closets or playrooms. Sliding barn doors add a classic and rustic touch to any room that you can keep for years — long after your baby has grown out of their crib. At Barndoorz, we have options for any room and any aesthetic. Take a look at our selection of customizable sliding barn doors today.