Change Table Essentials

When it comes to creating our baby’s nursery, one thing we often overlook is the change table. Where you place the change table and what’s within reach are all things we may not consider until we’re in the thick of it and somehow getting peed on!

We’ve got some hot tips to make change-time a breeze.

Change table design and placement

Not to get too technical too early, but make sure the height of your change table is ‘ergonomic’ – i.e., you’re not bending over too much when changing your little one or twisting like Keanu Reeves in the Matrix to get to the things you need.

Furniture with drawers is a great option as you can easily reach whatever you need without having them out on display all the time - consider a lowboy-style chest of drawers. The added bonus? It will remain super useful for storage as your child grows up – whether it’s for their clothes or toys or somewhere else in the house.

The change table should also be close enough to the lighting in your nursery so you can see what you’re doing during the night.

Changes will also be easier with a change table cover. A cover helps protect the mattress from stains and spills and are also great to have in the nappy bag for when you’re on the go. If it’s marked or wet, simply take it off and replace with a new one!

Nappies

Whether you opt for disposable nappies or one of the many varieties of reusable nappies on the market, it can be hard to know how many you’ll need. On average – and every baby is different! – you may change your baby 8-12 times a day.

Cloth and reusable nappies are more environmentally friendly but knowing how many to buy will depend on your laundry routine and your climate, as they will need to be washed and dried before they are ready for use again. Some experts recommend purchasing 20-24 initially so you have enough clean ones on hand.

Disposable nappies continue to be a popular choice because they are quick and easy to use and are readily available.

Finding the right nappy for you and your baby will depend on how old your baby is and your personal preferences. You might like to try a few different brands until you find what’s right for you.

Wipes and cleanliness

There are two types of wipes you’ll need in your change table arsenal: baby wipes and disinfectant wipes. Baby wipes are for cleaning your baby after number 1s and 2s (and number 3s!).

Disinfectant wipes are great for cleaning surfaces when you’re finished so you leave things fresh and clean for next time!

Speaking of clean, having hand sanitizer and cloths or tissues on hand for yourself is a handy way to keep your hands clean throughout and after a change, until you have time to wash your hands with soap and water.

Barrier creams

Applying a barrier cream or ointment during each nappy change can reduce the amount of time your baby's skin has contact with any irritants such as wee and poo. Barrier creams can also prevent a rash from forming as a result of friction between the nappy and your baby’s skin. Ask your healthcare professional for advice about which cream – if any – is most suitable for your baby.

Nappy bags and bin

Naturally after changing your little one, you need to put that nappy somewhere! Regardless of what type of nappy you use, having nappy bags and a bin nearby is a must. Scented nappy bags help mask any unwanted smells and a nappy bin with a foot pedal is a hands-free way to dispose of or store the nappy until you can throw it in your council bin.

#sidenote: if you have a pet dog or dogs, nappies and nappy bins can smell particularly interesting to our fur babies. We recommend keeping them away from the bin or opting for a secure nappy bin that they cannot open!

Added benefits of change time

While change time can feel a bit monotonous (and certainly can be a bit gross!) it’s a great opportunity to check in with your little one. What's their temperature? Do their nails need trimming? Are their eyes clear and bright, or are they a bit crusty and sleepy? Not every change will provide the opportunity for a baby day spa, but if you have time to check these things, having the necessary gear within reach is a huge help. We recommend adding the below tools to your change table:

• thermometer
• hairbrush
• nail clippers
• eye wipes
• nasal aspirator (also known as a 'snot sucker'!) - easy and gentle relief from the effects of a stuffy nose.

Keeping your little one calm and entertained

Keeping change table-specific toys nearby can help distract your baby and keep their hands out of any mess! Think a mobile above the change table or switching toys between the nursery and any other play spaces to keep them engaged. Visual and audio stimulation (such as a musical box) helps with distraction and minimise wriggling.

Regardless of how you stock your change table, make sure there is nothing within baby’s reach, particularly once they start standing up or moving about their cot or room. This includes curtains and blinds. Also, remember to always keep contact with your baby while they are on a change table to prevent falls – even newborns can wriggle their way off a surface.

Discover the vast range of nursery items from Baby Bunting and let us help you create the perfect space for you and your little one.