As new parents, we often fall into the trap of believing we can’t keep a beautiful home with kids. Our friends laugh and wish us luck when we say our home will never look like theirs.

I’ll be the first to admit that it does take some creativity and a lot of work, but it can be done. With a toddler at home and another on the way, I’m going to let you in on a few tips I’ve learned along the way for decorating your home when you have kids.

Create a variety of storage solutions around your home

You should absolutely use baskets for anything and everything! Baskets are the perfect catch-all storage solution for toys. Buy ones with lids and keep a few scattered throughout your living spaces. That way all the mess is hidden, but they can easily pull everything out during playtime.

 

 

If Barbies, trucks, or blocks are scattered across your floor daily, organize them into separate clear bins. Store the bins in either a nearby closet or a storage cabinet with doors. These bins are also a great place for all those rainy-day arts and craft supplies.

Your house doesn’t have to look like a bomb went off… make a space for everything to be put away.

 

 

Disguise your baby gear with products that are designed to blend in with your home

Unfortunately, baby gear is a necessary part of raising kids, but you can disguise it by buying products that are designed to blend in with your home. Here are some items that I have in my home that are functional but still gorgeous. Trust me, you won’t mind living with these!

 

The Foodoo Highchair and Booster by Joovy

From its simple one-handed tray opening to its newborn-friendly reclinable seat, the Foodoo will last you from first feed to finally-finishing-those-peas. It also blends right in with your kitchen and dining room, so your guests won’t even notice it’s there.

 

Shop the Foodoo

The Animal Friends Classic Activity Gym by Pottery Barn Kids

With lots of creatures to see, feel, and grab, this activity gym entertains and stimulates your baby during playtime. A variety of animals and fun sounds encourage exploration and learning. No more looking at loud colors of the rainbow…the neutral colors mix right in with the rest of your décor.

 

Shop the Activity Gym

 

The Little Nomad Play Mat

 

With playtime over and baby’s toys put away, you get to reclaim your adult space and stop compromising the appearance of your favorite rooms. This easy-care play mat looks more like a rug than a neon eyesore.

 

Shop the Play Mat

Design with safety and beauty in mind

Baby-proofing is a must with infants and toddlers, so you might as well design with safety AND beauty in mind. Are you worried about your child as they learn to walk? Store away that coffee table, and opt for soft ottomans with removable, sturdy trays instead.

 

 

Do you fear that your couch will be ruined by juice or snacks? Purchase one with kid-friendly fabric covers that can easily be removed and washed.

 

 

Will you those sharp fireplace corners ever stop giving you anxiety? Buy neutral-colored foam bumpers that you won’t even notice.

 

 

You do get to have nice things.

Take these tips and use them to help cultivate the minimalist look you desire. You CAN have a beautiful home that is also family-friendly. The days are long, but the years are short, so do what you can and enjoy every step of the way.

What area of your home will you tackle first?