Choosing nursery furniture when decorating for baby can be a daunting task. One obvious addition is a changing table. Having a good changing surface can eliminate parental back strain and makes organizing diaper changing supplies much easier. Some parents opt for an antique changing table handed down from one family member to the next. There are new combination dresser/changing table units. Still others will choose not to purchase an individual changing table unit, but may want to use a thick changing pad on the top of a dresser as an alternative. Ease and convenience seem to be the biggest factors in choosing a changing table that fits the nursery space and serves the purpose.
What to Look for
Ensure that the table is solid and secure. An antique hand-me-down from other family members can be appealing, but is it still safe to use? Check to see that the paint on the furniture does not contain lead and that the changing table retains its stability. Some new models may be equally questionable in terms of stability. Test the floor demo in the store to see how secure it is. Is the material solid? Does it wobble when weight is applied to it? If it doesn't seem sturdy, keep checking for others. Also, the rails on the changing table should be at least 2" high all the way around to keep baby from slipping off unexpectedly. Back strain from constantly changing diapers can be eliminated with a good changing table at the correct height. If possible, see if the table has adjustable heights for different users. Also, supply storage space should be easily accessible during diaper changes. The table should have enough space to store diapers, baby wipes, several changes of clothes and washcloths. Finally, a comfortable mat will make your baby feel cozier during those frequent changes.
Common Pitfalls
Serious accidents have been associated with changing tables. Make sure yours has safety straps and that your baby is secured before starting to change his diaper. Also, any supplies should be immediately available, and the person changing the diaper should keep one hand on the baby at all times. Babies can quickly fall off of a changing table, especially if they are not secured or held.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (www.cpsc.gov) has recalled some models. Most of these recalls are concerns with combination dresser/changing table units that are unsteady when the baby is near the edge of the unit. Before purchasing any changing table, research recent recalls to make certain that the unit is still considered safe to use.
