You already know that the dresser is very necessary in your nursery, but how can you choose and categorize it the right way?

Did you know that the majority of accidents involving babies happen when furniture falls over them? And that the majority of time they are specifically dressers? That’s crazy, right?

For this reason, it's crucial to ensure that the dresser is safe! In addition to assessing stability and durability, choose a piece of furniture certified by regulatory bodies. Here in the US the main regulatory body for baby furniture is the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC).

Simply Nursery's Retro Dresser - a classic and timeless design featuring a divider in the top drawer

As they are heavy furniture pieces, generally with drawers (which, when open, change the product's center of gravity), tipping can occur. To prevent accidents - in addition to paying attention to safety standards - opt for models with solid construction and a sturdy base: solid wood products tend to be more stable than MDF ones, besides having a longer lifespan and, in my opinion, being more aesthetically pleasing.

Some dresser models also allow for wall attachment (all Simply Nursery dressers come with an anti-tip system). When this option is not available directly from the manufacturer, you can secure them with metal plates and screws, but it's not ideal.

Drawer safety is also essential: choose dressers with soft-close systems or telescopic rails - they prevent drawers from opening completely, making tipping more difficult. Soft-close also reduces the risk of the baby trapping their fingers - because yes, they are curious, and the moment to open all drawers and cabinets will come!

Simply Nursery's Boho Noah Dresser - a contemporary design that features white metal and Hazelnut wood color 

Height is another important factor to consider: when appropriate, it facilitates comfort during diaper changes, post-bath, when you have to give them medicine, and whenever you use it. Your arms need to be at a 90-degree angle so you don't bend “too much”. I am quite tall (5.8 ft) and chose the Samba dresser (Samba), which is 37 in tall... I thought it was perfect!

Still on design, some dresser models come with additional features, such as changing trays (all products from Simply Nursery have the possibility of a changing table). This option provides a dedicated and safe space for diaper changes (loose changing tables can be slippery) and frees up support space for hygiene necessities.

Simply Nursery's Cali 6-Drawer Dresser - A spacious dresser that features beautiful and resistant leather handles (handles in black metal are also an option)

Another cool feature is having a double top drawer, or rather, not just a single drawer on each "level". Having more drawers on this top level makes it much easier when we're changing the baby and need something from inside one of them because we don't need to move away from the dresser to open the drawer, just move a bit to one side or the other. I also find it easier to categorize items in smaller drawers.

When choosing a dresser for your nursery, also consider the available space. A very large dresser in a small room will make walking around more difficult; a very small dresser in a spacious environment may look disproportionate.

Pay attention to the chosen decor style as well! Choose finishes that complement the your crib and do not compromise the harmony of the space: for example, a crib and dresser in wood make things much easier because they allow for the use of colors and patterns on walls or in the trousseau (not to mention they work for both girls and boys, in case you want to have more children, making the choice of these furnishings even more sustainable).

Oh! And don't forget that choosing a dresser with a unique design allows it to be used in other areas of the house: an entryway, guest room, master bedroom, etc.

Speaking of categorizing items, now that we've talked about dressers, let's discuss how to organize them!

Based on my experience, I have the following tips:

1 - Honeycombs or baskets!

Since baby items are very small, organizing them in honeycombs or baskets makes it easier to categorize. For example: long-sleeve bodysuits in one honeycomb, short-sleeve ones in another, and pants or jumpsuits in the third.

This tip also applies to hygiene items such as medicine and thermometer in one basket; nail clippers, scissors, comb, and hairbrush in another; ointments in a third, and so on.

2 - Hooks and shelves above the dresser expand storage space and make access to everyday items easier.

Diaper rash creams, diapers, and wet wipes are perfectly stored in bags hung on hooks. However, remember to ensure that these objects are securely fastened and at a distance where the baby cannot reach them (in the case of shelves).

Simply Nursery's Noah Dresser - A modern design that features black metal and Walnut wood color

3 - A laundry basket next to the dresser will make your life easier and help organize the room.

I did this in Luli's room and it's great: after her bath, I put all the clothes she wore in it, and at the end of the week when I need to wash them, I can grab the basket and take it to the laundry room.

In summary, when selecting a dresser for your baby's room, prioritize safety by choosing certified models with secure drawers and rounded corners. Choose a design that meets your storage needs and integrates harmoniously with the decoration of your little one's room. With the right care in choosing, a dresser can become not only a functional piece but also a charming addition to your baby's corner.

A warm hug from Luli's mamma 😊