The Associated Press Bedding, such as this striped set from Land of Nod, can be changed to suit your child’s growing tastes and interests, such as unicorns, dinosaurs or more grown-up themes.

Jennifer Cohen wishes she had had the sense to think about the cents she was lavishing on decorations for her baby daughter’s bedroom.

Cohen pulled out all the stops for the dream nursery — down to the custom-made crib bumpers and skirting. But baby Gabrielle quickly outgrew the nursery, and those precious and pricey baby items were stowed away all too soon.

For her 9-month-old son Ryan, the New York City mom says she has been more prudent, investing in the basics such as window treatments and light fixtures that will last him through childhood.

It’s natural to get caught up in the excitement of welcoming a baby home. But unless money is no object, parents should plan ahead and invest in the underpinnings that will carry a child through different stages, experts advise.