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Baby’s Changing Table: The Complete Buying Guide For Parents

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One of your first orders of business when becoming a parent is setting up your little one’s nursery and all new parents can count on changing a lot of diapers. It’s a dirty job, but someone’s gotta do it! The good news is that clean up can be quick and easy if you have a safe changing table stocked with supplies within reach. 

Why You Need A Changing Table

A changing table provides a designated safe place for you to change your baby’s diaper. Whether you opt for a traditional changing table or a dresser with a changing pad on top, you’ll be happy to have a go-to spot for diaper changes. It’s easy and convenient to have all the necessary diaper changing gear – wipes, diapers and diaper rash cream – organized and handy in one area. 

Changing tables are especially helpful for moms who are recovering from C-sections, because bending over at the waist can be painful and uncomfortable, so if you know ahead of time you might get one, this is sure to be a smart investment.

Dresser And Changing Table Combo

If you’d like a changing area, buy a changing pad and secure it onto a low dresser, which you can use even when your child is no longer wearing diapers. Store diapers, wipes and creams in a top drawer for quick access. Conveniently store away all of your other baby’s items – such as swaddles, burp cloths and onesies – in the dresser.

Things To Consider When Creating A Changing Table Area

  • Safety. Furniture needs to be secured to the wall so that it doesn’t topple over on your baby. If your piece of furniture doesn’t have anchors and tethers to brace it in place, your local hardware store will have the pieces you need. 
  • Changing Pad. Buy a firm, ridged changing pad and secure it onto the dresser, which you can use even when your child is out of diapers. Colgate’s contour changing pad turns any flat surface into a baby changing station. Firm foam ridges on the sides provide a secure cocoon for baby while being changed. The changing pad’s cover cleans easily with a damp cloth and mild soap. Extra safety features include a rigid fiber support board, a safety strap and screws to attach the changing pad. 
  • Safety Strap. While they’re a helpful feature for first-time parents, you should never leave baby unattended, even if it’s to grab a toy or a pair of pajamas in the same room. According to HealthyChildren.org, always keep one hand on baby.
  • Non-Toxic Paint. When using a hand-me-down changing table, make sure the paint finish is safe. Even freshly painted vintage finds can be hiding lead paint, which can be extremely dangerous for developing babies. Here’s how to identify lead paint.
  • Diaper Bin. Be sure to include a diaper pail closeby for easy diaper disposal. As your little one grows and the diapers pile up, you’ll quickly realize that this may be one of your most used – and most appreciated – nursery items. 
  • Big Baby. It’s harder than you think to diaper a growing, active baby. When your baby reaches 30 pounds, usually around a year old, it’s safer to change him on a pad or towel on the floor. By then, you’ll be an expert!