If you're tall, go with a taller table or dresser and secure it to the wall with an anti-tip device to reduce the risk of tipping. To prevent back pain, you'll want a changing table or dresser that's in proportion to your height. Anti-tip devices (or furniture straps) are a good idea for all. Some are as low as 36 inches others as high as 43 inches. Check table height by bending over the table in the store. Still, keep a hand on your baby at all times when he's being changed for added security and always use the changing table or pad's safety straps.Ĥ. Changing tables with a contoured changing surface need only have barriers on two opposing sides to comply with the latest safety standards. If there are only two or three sides of protection instead of four, don't buy it. According to the latest JPMA/ASTM safety standards, changing tables with a flat changing surface must have a barrier on all sides of the changing surface. A traditional changing table is usually surrounded by a restraining barrier made of rails or wood sides. A drawer offers an advantage over open shelving because it can hide diaper supplies that can be tempting to the curious toddler your baby will become in less time than you think.ģ. Having at least one drawer, preferably right under the table, can help you quickly retrieve the supplies you need, though some parents prefer the easy accessibility of open shelving. Many changing tables have open shelves that make it easy to reach diapers and clothing, either stacked in plain sight or arranged in decorative wicker baskets, but some have drawers or a combination of drawers and shelves.
Changing pads are also sold separately, but use a pad in a size the changing table manufacturer recommends.Ģ. The changing table you're considering should have a pad that affixes to the table with a safety strap. But what makes one changing table better than another? Here are four important features to keep in mind to help you narrow the field.ġ. A changing table can put you at just the right height for diaper duty and help keep supplies like diapers, ointment, baby wipes, and a change of clothes, organized and within easy reach.
But since you'll be changing about 2,000-plus diapers in your baby's first year alone, it's sure nice to have one. Technically, you can change a baby just about anywhere she's safe from falling, even the floor, which is the safest place. Although you might disagree, a changing table isn't a must-have.