"One of the things you hear all the time when women become moms is that you won’t be able to have nice things. I’d like to think that’s not the case at all. I’ve learned through the years of motherhood, three babies in, that every kid is different but it’s possible to have a space where everyone feels at home. You can create a home design that combines high-end furniture (if that’s your thing) with sippy cups and crayons.
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Making your home design more kid-friendly is very possible. Of course, it might take a little extra planning and a few extra dollars in the budget but it’s oh so worth it at the end of the day. Below are a few things that you want to keep in mind when designing your home to be a more kid-friendly space.
1. Use washable (or wipeable) fabrics
Washable fabrics will be your savior when it comes to having a kid-friendly home. Kids spill things all the time and having washable or wipeable fabrics will help make cleaning up a lot easier. While you’re shopping for furniture, take a look at the types of fabrics offered.
Microfiber and velvet are two of my favorite fabrics to use in the home with kids. They’re easy to wipe down with a cloth or fabric cleaner. Leather is a great option too if you can find a comfortable sofa or ottoman that your family loves. The only downside is that not all leather looks great overtime after it’s worn down. Read the reviews and ask about the lifespan if you decide to do in-store shopping.
Not only is the Caitlin sofa available in many configurations, but you can also choose from 90+ fabrics, many of which are easy-to-clean performance fabrics that are perfect for kid and pet-friendly households.
2. Forget the sharp edges
Sharp edges can be dangerous for kids and you’ll want to make sure that your home is as safe as possible for the littles. Opting for furniture with rounded corners will make it a little easier to prevent bumps and bruises.
Source: @tinygirlgang
3. Create a space just for the kids
Having a space just for your kids is essential to sparing headaches and keeping everyone happy. The space that you designate doesn’t have to be large. You can set aside a loft area or even a storage area under the stairs. There are some pretty cool under-the-stair playroom ideas floating around on the internet right now.
The point of the space is that the kids can have a special play area of their own. If there isn’t any extra space in your home, you can easily create a fun corner in their room. You can fill the space with their favorite books and toys, anything that will bring them joy.
4. Use washable paint
If your kids are anything like mine then their hands are constantly on the walls. Using a washable paint on the walls will help to maintain the color. Opt for an eggshell or semigloss finish to help conceal any knicks or dings and are easier to wipe off.
5. Get creative with storage
Kids and mess practically go hand in hand. Once you have kids, it’s impossible to not have a mess at home. Between the toys, books, and dishes there will always be something to clean. Learn to be okay with the mess all around you and even find the beauty in it. Creative storage solutions like baskets and bins are perfect for storing toys, board games, and, of course, LEGOs because every parent hates stepping on those.
Source: @danielle_moss
6. Make a display for your kids’ art
One of the best things you can do to make your kids feel right at home is to make a display for your children’s art. This space can be on the refrigerator, a wall in your dining room, or even a nook in their play area. My kids love that we have this space in our home and get so excited to showcase their masterpieces. You can use picture frames to make a collage of a few art pieces of a time. Switch them out from time to time to keep the display fresh.
7. Consider an open floor plan
There are so many benefits to an open floor plan when you’ve got kids running around. It goes without saying that an open floor plan has open sightlines throughout the home that make it easier for you to keep an eye on your children. Whether you’re cooking dinner, doing laundry, or spending time together as a family, an open floor plan is ideal.
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