By
eHow Home & Garden Editor
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step1
Choose the crib. The crib will often dictate the style of the rest of the room. The crib can be a simple one with a drop-down side to allow it to house a small infant. It may also be a convertible crib with a flip-down side. These convert to a toddler bed and sometimes later to a twin bed. The crib will be one of the largest expenses of the nursery. Start with that purchase and budget the other items around it. Also remember the cost of the crib mattress when budgeting for the crib.
Step2
Pick out a dresser and a changing table. The piece may also be a combination changing table and dresser. For nurseries that are short on space, the combination piece will take up less of it. Or you can choose a portable changing platform that fits over the top of the crib if you are really limited on space or budget.
Step3
Match a paint or wallpaper color to the furniture color scheme. The wall color should coordinate with the furniture but does not have to be the same color. If the furniture has not been bought yet, a neutral color like beige or creme will go with any furniture color.
Step4
Buy a rocking chair for rocking the baby to sleep and for feeding the baby comfortably. Opt for an old style rocker or a rocker-glider with an ottoman, both of which are comparable in price.
Step5
Get the accessories that will be needed in the nursery. Most people choose a mobile to hang above the crib and a crib bedding set. In cold or dry climates, a humidifier is also necessary in the nursery. The window or windows will also need to be covered with something. The cost of curtains is often less than the cost of blinds, but some parents choose both for maximum light blockage.
Step6
Babyproof the room with outlet covers, one-piece door stoppers, cord blind holders and other items needed to keep the baby from injury. Each of these items is inexpensive, but a large room may require many items.
Step7
Add up the costs of these items. You can price them in a baby store or general merchandise store, or you can look online for the prices. The price of all of these items is the price to convert the room into a nursery that has all the basics a baby will need.