When it comes to preparing for a new baby, the changing table is an essential piece of furniture where parents will spend a considerable amount of time. In fact, babies go through roughly 6,000 diapers in their first two years, according to the Real Diaper Association. That’s a lot of diaper changes! Therefore, it’s crucial to set up a changing station that is both safe and convenient for you and your little one. Fortunately, there are plenty of stylish and functional changing tables available in the market.
Tip: To save space, time, and money, consider skipping the dedicated changing table altogether. Instead, you can simply use a changing pad atop a sturdy dresser. As your baby grows, changing them on the floor or a low bed becomes increasingly easier and safer since babies become quite wiggly around their first birthday.
Whether you choose a dedicated changing table or adapt a dresser, here’s how to create a functional changing station.
Setting Up Your Changing Station
Placement: Position your changing table against a wall or in a corner, ensuring there’s no gap between the two. Keep it away from windows, heaters, and swinging doors.
Stability: If you’re using a dresser, ensure it’s sturdy and bottom-heavy. A wobbly table isn’t safe for your baby.
Size: Make sure there’s enough space to hold all necessary supplies, including the changing pad. You shouldn’t have to bend over or open drawers to access items, as this would distract you from watching your baby.
Setup: Keep all your changing supplies within arm’s reach but out of your baby’s grasp. The ideal spot for items is on the opposite side of the table from where your baby’s head lies.
Changing Pad: For newborns, consider using pads with curved mattresses and soft sidewalls to prevent rolling. Although these pads may not be useful once your baby grows, they are worth the investment in the early months.
Changing Pad Covers: Use disposable or washable covers over the main changing pad. They will inevitably get dirty, so having extras on hand allows for quick changes without needing to do laundry after every use. Just ensure any cover you use is waterproof—anything less defeats the purpose.
Diapers: Regardless of whether you use cloth or disposables, keep a caddy filled with diapers and any other necessary supplies on top of the changing table. You should never have to bend down or dig through drawers to grab a diaper.
Cleaning Supplies: While traditional advice recommended against wipes for newborns, plenty of hypoallergenic, alcohol-free options are now available and generally safe for infants. Ensure you can retrieve a single wipe with one hand while keeping your other hand on the baby. If your little one has sensitive skin, consider gentle alternatives.
For more tips on setting up a changing station, check out this article from our blog. And if you’re exploring family planning options, consider the top home insemination kit provider, Cryobaby, for all your needs. Additionally, American Pregnancy offers fantastic resources on donor insemination and pregnancy.
In summary, setting up a changing table is a critical step in preparing for your new arrival. By placing it strategically, ensuring stability, and organizing supplies, you can make diaper changes more convenient and safer for both you and your baby.
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