6 Tips for Raising Babies in Tiny Condos from a Sleep-Deprived Mom

Babies, though very, very small, require many, many things. There’s the crib, the highchair, the playmat, the playpen, the changing table, the bouncy chair…the list is infinite, and unfortunately for many young families in Canada, space is not. With soaring housing costs, more and more Canadians are opting to raise babies and children in condos, requiring very strategic shopping and home organization. Enter Denise Dias, a new mom who’s managed to transform her chic and petite Toronto condo into a baby friendly abode. Read on for Denise’s favourite finds, and tips for creating a functional home for a family in just 600 square feet!

Russell Vance

1 / 10

One Cute Condo Dweller

Soaring housing prices in Toronto means more and more young families are getting creative about raising kids in small condos. We survived the first few months with our baby girl in 600 square feet (read about it here!) and we’re continuously editing our space as she grows to accommodate her changing needs and development. This next exciting phase has her out of a bassinet and into a reclining high chair and us scrambling to keep up-it’s a fine balance between accumulating baby gear and preserving floor space!

Russell Vance

2 / 10

Bounce, Bounce, Baby

Everyone told us a baby swing was an essential item but we were really hesitant to get one because most are so bulky, bright and loud. This sleek black-and-white bouncer sits nicely by our desk and plays soft music. The cute mobile that hangs overhead also ties in with other Jonathan Adler designed pieces in the home. Jonathan Adler Crafted by Fisher-Price Deluxe Bouncer, $119.99, Fawn Diaper Bag, $160

Russell Vance

3 / 10

Tummy Time in a Tight Space

Tummy time around here is extra stylish on the Lilypad Playmat by Nook. Made from organic and eco-friendly materials, it’s machine washable and folds up into a compact triangle for easy storage and portability.

Russell Vance

4 / 10

Tummy Time in a Tight Space

We got it in a misty grey colour to match our existing décor and keep it under the bed or the activity gym when not in use. Lilypad Playmat, $120

Russell Vance

5 / 10

Pure and Simple

Splurging on a quality air purifier instead of a humidifier made sense for us. In a small space, you can always add moisture to the air by boiling a large pot of water or running a hot shower. The Dyson Pure Hot+Cool Link features a sleek, compact design and automatically removes the allergens and pollutants it detects in your home, while reporting live indoor and outdoor air quality through the Dyson Link app. Dyson Canada, $699.99

Russell Vance

6 / 10

Cute and Compact

With precious little space, we always look for well-designed, multi-purpose products that can do double duty and won’t be an eyesore in the main living area.

Russell Vance

7 / 10

Cute and Compact

This chic, black playpen comes in a mini size and doubles as a travel crib. A clever zigzag leg design allows it to pop open easily and refold with just one hand for quick storage. Nuna SENA Playard, $299.99

Russell Vance

8 / 10

Best Seat in the House

When purchasing big-ticket items like a high chair or pack ‘n play, we try to invest in pieces that can follow a child from birth through the toddler years. This ultra-compact high chair can be used from birth as a recliner or as a highchair for feeding and resting. The removable tray and adjustable height positions also allow a baby to sit right at the table. It disappears into a kitchen corner when folded. Peg Perego Siesta, $319.99

Russell Vance

9 / 10

Close to the Heart

We’ve learned that baby wearing can be a space-saving way to calm a fussy babe during the early evening witching hours. If you don’t have room for any heavy-duty baby gear, consider buying a soft fabric wrap that neatly folds away with a pile of swaddles. Go for an evening stroll around the block or pace your hallway-whatever works. Solly Baby Wrap, $65

Russell Vance

10 / 10

Queen of Her Castle

The HGTV.ca editors couldn’t resist one last photo of this beauty! Thank you, Denise, for sharing your helpful tips for raising tiny babes in tiny condos!Duo Teether, $38, Schoolgirl Bow Headband, $13.