Decorating and preparing a nursery for a new baby is an exciting time. Choosing the right paint is one of the most important decisions when it comes to designing the perfect space for your little one. The paint color, finish, and quality all require special consideration when painting a baby room.
Should I choose a gender-neutral color scheme?
While pink and blue are traditional colors associated with baby girls and boys, many parents today opt for more gender-neutral color palettes. Gender-neutral colors create a warm, inviting room that will grow with your child. They also allow you to reuse decor as your family expands. Here are some popular gender-neutral nursery color ideas:
- White or gray
- Yellow or green
- Tan, beige, or khaki
- Purple or lavender
- Multicolor schemes
You can introduce feminine or masculine accents through details like bedding, wall art, and accessories. This makes it easy to customize the room as needed in the future.
Should I choose a bright or neutral nursery color?
The nursery is often the most colorful room in the house. But bright walls aren’t necessarily the best choice. Here are some things to consider when deciding on a color palette:
- Bright colors may overstimulate some babies, making it harder for them to wind down and sleep.
- Neutral walls provide a soothing background for colorful decor and accessories.
- Bold accent walls balance visual interest with calm.
- Color preferences are personal. Select hues you find relaxing and uplifting.
Avoid very dark colors, which can make a small nursery feel closed in. The best approach is often a neutral main color paired with cheerful accents.
What type of paint finish is best?
Flat or matte paint is the top choice for baby rooms. It has a soft, velvety look that doesn’t reflect light. This makes it ideal for:
- Minimizing flaws in walls and ceilings
- Hiding scuffs and marks
- Avoiding glare that could disrupt sleep
Eggshell or satin finishes are also suitable. They withstand cleaning better than flat but may show some imperfections. Avoid glossy paints, which reflect too much light and glare.
How many coats of paint should I apply?
For best results, two coats of premium quality paint are recommended for nurseries. The first coat acts as a primer and sealant. A second coat creates a more durable, washable surface.
Tinting the first and second coats to the same color ensures better coverage. Allow proper drying time between coats as indicated on the paint can.
Darker colors may require an extra coat for full, even coverage. Inspect walls after the second coat dries and apply a third coat if any thin spots remain.
What type of paint should I purchase?
For baby rooms, choose top quality paints designed for durability, easy cleaning, and low VOCs:
- Zero-VOC paint – No volatile organic compounds means better indoor air quality for baby.
- Antimicrobial paint – Contains agents that inhibit mold, mildew growth and certain bacteria.
- Enamel paint – A hard, scrubbable finish good for high-wear surfaces.
- Acrylic latex paint – Water-based, low-odor, and fast drying.
Stay away from oil-based paints and alkyd enamels, which have stronger odors and take longer to dry. Purchase paint from quality brands known for performance and coverage.
How do I prepare walls and ceilings before painting?
Proper prep work leads to better paint application and adhesion. Recommended steps include:
- Fill any holes, cracks and imperfections with spackle. Allow to dry fully.
- Sand glossy surfaces for better paint grip.
- Wash walls with mild soap and water. Rinse.
- Remove outlet covers, switch plates and vent covers.
- Tape off ceilings, trim, windows and doors with painter’s tape.
- Cover floors and furniture thoroughly.
Priming provides added insurance that paint will adhere smoothly to surfaces. Use stain-blocking primer on any stained areas.
Should I use VOC-free paint?
VOC-free or no-VOC paint has zero volatile organic compounds. VOCs are carbon-containing chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature.
In paint, common VOCs include:
- Formaldehyde
- Benzene
- Toluene
- Xylene
Exposure to these substances can irritate eyes, nose and throat. They may also worsen asthma and certain allergies.
Zero-VOC paint improves indoor air quality, which is especially beneficial for infants and young children. The “green” paint collection from top brands offer excellent low-odor, VOC-free choices perfect for nurseries.
Conclusion
Preparing a nursery with safe, durable paint ensures your baby’s room will be a healthy, restful oasis for years to come. For best results, look for zero-VOC acrylic latex paint in a soft matte or eggshell finish. Neutral walls with bright accents create a soothing yet playful retreat. With quality prep work and two coats of premium paint, you can create a sleep sanctuary and play space your child will love.
