When it comes to outfitting your nursery, it’s often important to think not only of style (though creating a stylish nursery is certainly something you want to strive for), but also of function. After all, a stylish nursery benefits no one if it’s difficult to maneuver around (especially if it’s a tiny nursery) and filled with furniture that’s messy and a hassle to use.
Baby nursery bookshelves already serve a key function as a spot to store all your favorite bedtime reads, but what if they could do more? To make your life as a new parent easier, here are three nursery bookshelves that are designed with function in mind, so you can get the most out of your hard-earned cash when buying a nursery bookshelf.
Good: Kidkraft Sling Book Display
If you don’t have a ton of floor or wall space, you might want to consider this non-traditional nursery bookshelf that makes the most out of small spaces. Rather than consisting of traditional shelves, it offers four rows of fabric “slings” that keep books in place, facing the reader, so they’re easy to identify, grab, and go. This bookshelf is ideal for thin children’s books and board books, so it might not last your child into their adolescence, but it’s definitely well suited for a nursery. The colorful pastel design is just the icing on the cake.
What we love:
- Takes up very little space
- Under $100
- Sturdy build for no tipping or toppling
Better: Kidkraft Chip-Resistant Kids Bookcase Reading Nook
At just under $150, this nursery bookcase and reading nook is one that will serve your child well into their toddler and adolescent years. The horizontal bookshelf features four lower shelves, great for storing not only books, but also tubs of toys, and then two taller, upper shelves that are an ideal size for storing taller board books. Between the two upper shelves, a cushioned reading nook provides a spot for your child to kick back and enjoy their favorite stories once they’re old enough to climb around on their own. There are three different shelf colors to choose from and the finish is chip-resistant, so it can stand up to years of use. Reviewers report that the bench section of the shelf is a hit with kids of all ages, as it can hold up to 100 pounds.
What we love:
- Stores both books and toys
- Provides extra, child-size seating
- Easy to assemble
Best: Kidkraft Chip-Resistant Cube Unit Kids Bookcase
As your child gets older, they’re going to need more storage space. Why not ensure they have it from the very beginning? This larger shelf features a range of shelf sizes, plus bottom storage bins perfect for toys, stuffed animals, blocks, and other items that are awkward to store due to size and shape. With more than a dozen different storage spaces, this bookshelf could ideally fit three rows of books in the middle, while you could use the bottom storage bins for toys, as mentioned, and then the top two, larger shelves as space for decor and artwork.
At just over $300, the shelf is a little bit more of an investment, but it’s high quality and built to last, with loads of good reviews from pleased parents.
What we love:
- Ample storage space
- Different-sized shelving, suitable for a range of items
- Bottom shelves feature raised sides to keep loose toys off the floor
Instill a love for books and learning with a bookshelf in baby’s first nursery
Make books and reading a part of your child’s life from the start. The right nursery bookshelf makes it easy. These three options are all excellent choices, whether you’re just looking for something small and affordable that’s ideal for a small nursery, or you want a sturdier piece of furniture that’s long-lasting and suitable for use for the next decade of your child’s life to come. Better yet, they’re all easy to assemble, so that’s one less worry on your nursery checklist.
Whatever your needs, you’re sure to find something to fit them among our top three choices for a good, better, and best nursery bookshelf.
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