Planning your nursery and wondering whether a nursing chair is worth the investment? Interior influencer and first-time mum Ella Billig of @ellascottage__ reveals how she chose the perfect nursing chair for her home, and the benefits it’s brought.
Known for sharing thoughtful interior inspiration and documenting the renovation of her beautiful 1870s Norfolk cottage, Ella brings a practical, design-led approach to creating spaces that feel both stylish and functional.
In this article, Ella reveals why a nursing chair became an essential part of her nursery, where she positioned it to make everyday feeds and cuddles more comfortable, and how she styled it to complement the room's timeless aesthetic.
Alongside inspiring images of her nursery featuring her Mamas & Papas Hilston nursing chair and footstool, she shares her top tips for finding a design that works beautifully with your space and home style.
Why did you want a nursing chair for your baby’s nursery, and what features were most important to you?
I wanted a nursing chair for my baby's bedroom because I realised I struggled without an area to feed/comfort my baby without taking them into my own bedroom. This was particularly hard at night when my husband would be trying to sleep. I wanted something small and compact in the nursery but comfy, so if I needed to sit there for a long period of time, I’d be happy.
How did you decide where to place your nursing chair to create a cosy corner in your home?
I wanted to place my chair near a window so that my baby could look outside and get the fresh air. It’s also opposite the door, so it’s the first thing I see when I walk in, making the room feel instantly cosy.
If parents don’t have room for a nursing chair in their nursery, what other areas of the home would you suggest putting a nursing chair to create a cosy nursing space?
If parents don’t have space in the nursery, I’d recommend the living room instead. It’s an adaptable chair, so it suits spaces in the home beyond the nursery. By opting for the living room, if you’re nursing or comforting, etc., you can do it whether you're watching a little TV or sitting in silence, while still being in a comfy area of your home.
What should parents look for when choosing the best nursing chair for their home?
My main guidance is to choose a colour that suits your home’s decor scheme and a design with rocking legs or a rocking motion that lets you swing back and forth for extra comfort for your baby. Don’t forget to consider the size to make sure it fits into the space you have in mind.
Why do you think a comfortable nursing chair is such a beneficial addition to a nursery?
It’s a benefit to have a comfortable nursing chair for the long nights when you’re not sure how long you may be settling, feeding and comforting your little one. It means you’ll be happy to sit with them for long periods of time if need be.
How have you styled and positioned your nursery chair?
I’ve styled my nursing chair with blankets and positioned it next to my changing dresser so I can set the bottle down after I’m done feeding without needing to get up.
What design details helped your nursing chair blend beautifully with the rest of your home/interior style?
I chose a calming colour for the chair to blend with the calming blue and neutrals in my baby's nursery. I have cottage doors in the nursery and the rest of my home, so the wooden legs of the chair complement our home's style beautifully.
How has your nursing chair helped make day – and night – routines easier/more comforting for both you and baby?
We absolutely love reading a book before bedtime now, which we did before downstairs, but it didn’t always flow as well because of the distractions. But when he’s in his room, he understands that after his book it's bedtime, and it helps massively with our routine.
What are your top 3 tips for creating a cosy nursing corner that feels relaxing for both parent and baby?
1. A lamp with a soft glow
2. Books nearby for storytime
3. Close the blinds and turn on the white noise
How do you plan to use your nursing chair beyond the baby years?
The chair will stay in my baby's room and will then be passed down to my next baby (if/when this happens).
Find your perfect nursing chair with our expert Buying Guide, packed with advice, inspiration and tips for every home and budget.
