Pacifiers, diapers, bottles, oh my! As if having a baby isn't enough work, you must think about having a baby-ready nursery before you can even welcome your little bundle into the world. While some purchases to prepare that space are essential-especially to the baby's safety-others are simply frills that aren't possible on all budgets. But regardless of your budget, you can still express your creative side, and make a space that will be unique to you and your baby. Keep the following tips in mind as you go:


1. Safety first! Above all else, DO NOT skimp on the pieces of furniture that must be safe for your baby. It may be economical to buy secondhand or use hand-me-downs from your relatives, but it's not always safe. Manufacturers' standards have changed over the years, so the crib that your sister's children, who are now grown and sleeping in bunk beds, used isn't likely to be safe for your baby. Buy new products that you know have gone through rigorous testing and meet the most current safety standards.

2. Spend more money on items that will grow as your baby grows. If you're willing to invest the money up front, you can purchase items that your child won't grow out of as fast as she grows out of her clothes. Purchase items such as a baby crib that converts to a toddler bed and then to a twin bed, or invest in a dresser made from high-quality materials that will be around long enough to see your child through middle school.


3. Just like furniture, decorate for durability. Spend a little more now on items such as washable wallpaper, removable decorative wall decals or borders, and machine washable window treatments that will stand up to the wear and tear that your child will put them through. You (and your bank account) will be thankful you did for years to come!


4. Steer clear of decorating with the traditional tickled pink, baby blue, rubber duckies, and teddy bears. Opt instead for a more neutral color scheme, while utilizing some of the tips already mentioned. Softer pastel shades such as a butter cream yellow, sky blue, and a sage green will allow you to get more years out of your decorating.


5. Recruit family and friends to help you decorate and build your baby's space. Don't be afraid to ask for a hand when it comes to painting, assembling products, and moving the baby furniture. Why spend money to pay the painter, the interior designer, and the moving company when you can get your loved ones to help you out for free?


6. You aren't done using your family and friends just yet! Have colorful pictures of your family and friends blown up at your local photo shop, and frame them with equally colorful frames. This way you add a touch of color and life to your baby's room, while introducing her to the people important in her life early on!


7. Set a budget and stick to it! Talk to other parents and find out which pieces of furniture and baby products are absolutely necessary and which are splurges. Allot funds to the essentials and only buy splurges if you have money left over when you're done.


The choices can be dizzying-especially when it comes to decorating or furnishing your new baby's room. In a world of customized layettes, baby blankets, and hand-painted nursery wall murals, follow the tips above and make a few smart choices that will ensure that your baby has a one-of-a-kind nursery that won't break your bank!