Before your baby celebrates her first birthday, she will have had her diaper changed close to 3,000 times. On average, a baby soils between six to 10 diapers every day, according to the Real Diaper Association. That translates to nearly 6,000 diapers by the time she's potty trained. It's obvious that diaper changes are part of every new parent's day-to-day activities. Take time to set up a changing table in your home that is convenient, economical and secure.
Step 1
Decide where in your home is the most convenient and spacious area to accommodate a changing table--before you purchase one. "For small space families like mine, we needed a changing table that served more than one purpose," said Georgette Semroc, mother of 5-year-old Ian and 14-month-old Elsa. "We were really interested in being able to use it as a dresser or storage area during and after our kids were out of diapers," she said.
Step 2
Shop for a changing table with protective guardrails and safety straps. This is a case where the higher the guardrail is the around the table, the better. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the railing be at least 2 inches high on all sides. Most changing table models come with a safety strap with buckle. If not, add one yourself.
Step 3
Make sure your model has storage for diapers, wipes and creams. Many styles offer shelves underneath the unit to organize your changing essentials and keep them close at hand. Open shelves that run the length of table are more convenient than small, high-sided baskets. You don't want to have to reach or take your eyes off your baby to access powder or wipes.
Step 4
Pick a changing surface with a flat, wide surface. It should be long enough to accommodate a toddler until she's through with toilet training, and one tall enough so it doesn't strain your back or make you reach for things while changing the baby.
Step 5
Shake the changing table to see if it's stable. Sturdy, steady legs--ones that don't wobble and feel rickety when you wiggle the table with your hands--provide a safer changing surface. Pass on a changing table if it feels unstable at the store. It probably won't feel any more secure when you get it home.
Tips and Warnings
- Depending on the size and layout of your house, you might only need one changing area. If you have a two-story home, however, a secondary changing zone is a real convenience. You could stage a miniature version of the main one in the downstairs bathroom or in a corner of your family room. Some families use a well-stocked diaper bag or a portable basket filled with supplies. Add a contoured changing pad with raised sides and a safety strap and you're all set.
- Remember that even the highest possible guardrail is no substitute for keeping one hand on your baby while she's on the table or any elevated surface. A quick squirm and baby could tumble to the floor in an instant. Never leave a baby unattended on a changing table, even for a moment. And although a strap is a great aid, it's not intended to substitute for your hands-on supervision.
Things You'll Need
- Changing table or flat surface
- Diapers
- Warm wet wipes or washcloths
- Diaper cream
- Diaper pail with a foot pedal
- Mini-laundry hamper with a lid
- Toy or mobile
- Two clean outfits
References
- Real Diaper Association; Diaper Facts
- American Academy of Pedatrics; Changing Table Safety
- Georgette Semroc; mother of two; Seattle, Washington
