The Ultimate Monochrome Nursery on a Budget

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So, I don’t write a ton about my personal life but some of you know my husband and I are expecting a bundle of joy in May.

I am not a “traditional” nursery type. The idea of spending hundreds on a crib bedding set (no matter how cute) makes me want to cry. Do you know how many diapers I can buy for $250?! Plus, I don’t know what he will like, so I want to decorate simply so he can grow into the room. No character themed nursery for us. Just a simple monochromatic room that can grow with him.

Monochromatic nurseries are beautiful but they can be EXPENSIVE! (the cute bear cushion is $50 – for a cushion!) Being thrifty, I am determined to spend as little as possible on the major nursery staples. I should note that even though I have included a crib in this guide, we will be using a bedside bassinet for our son. This is just a personal preference.

You will always get the best price by buying used (or in rare cases, casing the clearance section). So far, we have bought a lot of stuff on Facebook Marketplace but you can also try Craigslist or your local selling groups. Just make sure whatever you buy is clean and from a smoke free home (and pet free if that is important to you). For those who are more comfortable buying new, this guide is for you!

Cribs under $200

Monarch Hill Ivy Crib, $165
I adore metal cribs. They just give the room a vintage feel plus they add texture and visual interest.
Piper 2 in 1 Convertible Crib – $139
This metal and upholstered crib only looks expensive!
Baby Mod Marley 3 in 1 Crib – $199
This crib looks super modern and can transition into a toddler bed.

Should You Buy a Changing Table?

I personally am not a fan of most changing tables – they tend to be cheaply made and cannot be reused as your child gets older. That being said, here is the one I don’t mind for a neutral, monochrome nursery It is actually the matching piece to my first crib selection.

I think most modern nurseries tend to use a sleek dresser as a changing table. It is multi-functional and looks more contemporary. But the one below costs a whopping $969 – that is NOT happening.

You can easily find cute low dressers at your local thrift store, garage sales, resale shops, or anywhere else you hunt for deals. Check out my favorite dresser makeovers to get inspired.


My Dream Rocker & More Realistic Options

I adore this rocker but I just cannot justify spending $550 on something that will most likely get puked on. A girl can dream, but let’s get onto a few more realistic options.

Welliver Rocking Chair – $199
This could easily transition to another room when you no longer need a rocker.
Edith Rocking Chair – $139
How fun! Add visual interest while keeping the nursery neutral.
Madison Home Rocking Chair – $125 for Two
Just $62.50 each and it comes in black or white. It is easy to class these up with a nice faux sheepskin throw or cute pillow.

Decor – My Favorite Part

The little things bring a room together. Here are the key components of a well designed monochromatic nursery.


Great Artwork

These are all from Etsy but I also love Art.com, Target, and Wayfair plus these amazing frame/poster hangers from H&M.


Simple Bedding & Luxe Looking Textiles


Natural, Neutral Storage


Quirky Pillows & Accessories

No matter where you shop online for our nursery decor, you want to make sure you are getting the best deal. Honey is a chrome extension that gives you the best coupon codes on every site you visit.

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