For many new parents, designing and installing a new nursery is one of the most important aspects involved in preparing for their new baby. Like many parents-to-be, you may have spent a lot of time and a great deal of money on beautiful furnishings, themed linen, wall art and cot mobiles.

Yet, too often one of the most important features of a functional nursery is overlooked. Here are two reasons why high-quality indoor blinds are vital additions to your baby's room.

1. Blocking out light

For new parents, sleep becomes a precious commodity that's generally in short supply. That's why making sure your baby's room is optimally fitted out for maximising sleep is so important. High-quality blinds will help to create a dark and rest-inspiring space in the nursery. This is important for your baby's daytime naps as well as during the summer months when the sun rises early and sets late.

The best choice for nursery blinds is heavy-duty blackout blinds. They will be the most effective in reducing the amount of exterior light that enters the room. While this type of blind isn't all that aesthetically appealing, they can be easily disguised behind light-weight, decorative curtains that fit in with your colour scheme.

2. Regulating room temperature

Small babies aren't very effective at regulating their body heat. They are quick to overheat in hot weather and need a warmer environment than older children and adults during the colder months. If your baby is too hot or too cold during sleep time, they won't sleep as soundly and will wake after shorter stretches of time than if the room temperature is well regulated.

Interior blinds can play a significant role in maintaining a consistent and moderate temperature in your baby's sleeping environment. Choose blinds which have insulative properties, as well as the ability to block out light. This type of blind will deflect exterior heat in the summer, provide a barrier against cold external air in the winter, and help to effectively retain internal warmth and cooling from heaters and air-conditioning units all-year-round.

Indoor blinds may not be the most glamorous purchase that you'll make when you're decorating your baby's nursery. However, they may just end up being the purchase you are most grateful for during the first few months of your baby's life. By ensuring that you buy high-quality blinds from a respected manufacturer, you'll enjoy the benefits they provide well into your baby's childhood.