Best changing table: which one to buy and how to choose the right one
A changing table is a very useful piece of furniture, but when you compare it to other important nursery furniture such as wardrobes or cribs and cots , it is often overlooked.
In fact, the perception is that it is equipment that will be used for a short time, but most people do not consider that changing diapers is not something to do just once a day but alas dozens and for at least 12/24 months. Therefore, having a safe and comfortable changing table for changing the baby is not a whim, but a requirement and prevents diaper changes – often also experienced as an occasion for pampering and intimacy – from turning into a nightmare for mum and dad (badly back pain, messy house, hygiene problems).
For further information: How to change a newborn’s diaper: practical advice
How to choose the right changing table
There is a wide range of changing tables on the market however, given the variety of models available choosing the right changing table can be daunting.
To help you with this task, here are the things you need to consider and what you need to pay attention to.
Space available
Depending on the space you have available, you can decide which model of changing table to buy. Those with the cabinet and the chest of drawers take up some space but you can put them in all rooms, while those with legs and the tray are more suitable for being in the bathroom. Instead, the small resealable ones are less practical but are an obligatory choice for those who do not have space at home.
Safety
Since baby’s safety is the top priority, we cannot deny the fact that babies can fall off the changing table. For this reason, a safe changing table should have padded safety sides. Furthermore, if the changing table is equipped with legs, make sure that they are stable and that the mattress is firmly in place. Pads covered with non-toxic, hypoallergenic and waterproof material are preferable.
Practicality and Comfort
The best changing table to choose is the one that guarantees the right practicality. This means that it must be easily accessible, easy to open and easy to use. In addition, the changing table must also be comfortable for both the baby and us. The best position for changing the baby comfortably and for him to look in the right direction is perpendicular to the changer (that is, the bottom must be facing us). So the advice is to choose a changing table model that allows you to maintain this position and to have everything close at hand, compatibly with the place where you are going to put it.
For further information: 5 tips to better organize the changing corner
Types of changing table
The baby changing table can be purchased in baby shops but also conveniently online . In this case the choice of models is certainly wider and can be purchased simply with a click.
Some of the best known brands are Brevi, Cam , Chicco , Stokke , Foppapedretti (but there are others too).
Changing table drawers
If you don’t have space problems, you can use a corner of the house as a corner for the diaper change. You can furnish it with a chest of drawers changing table, certainly one of the most practical and comfortable changing tables to have everything at hand.
Changing table adaptable to chest of drawers
If you already have a chest of drawers, the changing table to put on it could be for you. These are wooden structures – to be completed with the mattress – very large and comfortable, which transform the IKEA chest of drawers into a perfect changing table. The shopping is very convenient.
Changing table with baby bath
Changing tables with legs take up space but are very useful because they are high and allow parents to change the baby without having to bend over. Furthermore, they are often equipped with a baby bath tub and support shelves which are always convenient to have everything at hand. There are both metal and wooden ones.
Wall changing table
The lockable wall changing table is a very popular space-saving solution. They are suitable from birth up to the maximum weight indicated by the manufacturer. They generally have shelves to organize everything needed for changing, often they are also equipped with a mattress. Once the little one has grown up, some models can be used as nice desks
Portable changing table
If you have serious space constraints it is obvious that you will have to fall back for a portable changing table. This type of changing table can be used on a table or flat surface. Some have adapters to be placed on the tub or on the sides of the bed.
Changing bag
Another proposal that is on the market is the changing bag . However, I find this solution impractical for the home, while it is certainly more suitable as a travel changing table.
DIY changing tables
Finally, if the budget available is zero, it is possible to create a DIY changing table. Time available and a little manual skill are needed, but the results can lead to acceptable solutions.
Here some example with tutorial:
Kathryn Barlow is an OB/GYN doctor, which is the medical specialty that deals with the care of women's reproductive health, including pregnancy and childbirth.
Obstetricians provide care to women during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, while gynecologists focus on the health of the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, vagina, and breasts. OB/GYN doctors are trained to provide medical and surgical care for a wide range of conditions related to women's reproductive health.