For most expectant parents one of the most important things about the pregnancy is buckling down and designing the nursery. After all, this is where you will be bringing your child home to for the very first time, and where they will spend a large chunk of their time for the next several months to years. If you are in the midst of designing your nursery, it is possible you've forgotten one important details; the lighting. Don't fret though; many expectant parents focus on decorating their child's room and filling it with appropriate furniture, but completely forget about lighting. So, now is the perfect time to rectify the situation, as lighting is an extremely important aspect of your child's nursery.
Why are Lights Important?
The lighting in your nursery is important for several reasons. First, it can effect your child's ability to sleep, and strong lighting may hurt their eyes, as they will spend much of their first months lying on their backs staring into the lights. Glare and strong glows can be harmful to a newborn, so picking soft lights is your best bet.
Experts also note that soft, layered lighting can be an easy and effective way to acclimate your baby to the dark, and to get through baby-oriented tasks safely and happily. Lighting is very much a cornerstone of every well-designed nursery.
Picking the Right Lighting
Now that you know how important lighting is, you are probably wondering how to pick the correct lighting solution for your needs. Experts all seem to agree that soft, layered lighting is best for a newborn and young baby. Start with LED bulbs in both overhead lighting and task-oriented lighting. Not only do these lights cast a soft glow, but the spectrum is more natural. The bulbs also refrain from heating up, which prevents the possibility of burn injuries.
Where Should Lighting be Situated?
Most experts agree that overhead lighting is a good starting point. Overhead lighting is away from the child, and creates a softer more manageable glow. Overhead lighting also removes the possibility of choking hazards, which lights situated too close to a child's crib creates. LED bulbs can be purchased for existing overhead lights, or you can install a new lighting fixture to fit the needs and theme of your child's nursery.
Once you have overhead lighting all figured out, experts suggest picking task oriented lighting, as well. A task lamp situated next to a rocking chair makes the space multifunctional. You can use the space to put your child to sleep, or use it for story time and breastfeeding. A floor lamp or desk lamp that is powered by an LED bulb is best. Not only are these bulbs more energy efficient, but they also do not heat up like traditional bulbs, preventing potential burns and injury.
Finally, you'll want to utilize a nightlight. Often thought of as a lighting solution for slightly older children afraid of the dark, the soft glow of a nightlight can be reassuring to babies, too. It will also help you complete baby-related tasks at night without turning on stronger lights, which can make it more difficult to get you and your child back to sleep.
Now that you have the 411 on the lighting needs of a nursery finishing up the decorating process should be a breeze. Remember, proper lighting is about more than simply setting a mood or ambiance. It is an easy and effective way to keep your child safe and happy during their first few months. These tips and facts should make your shopping experience a bit easier.