Becoming a parent is an exciting and challenging journey, and one of the most important things you will need to get right is the baby changing table.
A well-stocked and organized changing table will make your life so much easier, especially during those first few weeks and months when you are getting used to your new role.
In this blog post, we will look at five baby-changing table hacks that will help you save time, space, and stress.
Easy Baby Changing Table Hacks
Invest in a Good Changing Pad
A good quality changing pad is an absolute must-have for any parent.
It provides a comfortable and safe surface for your baby to lie on while you change their diaper.
Look for a waterproofing changing pad, easy to clean, and with a non-slip bottom to prevent it from moving around on the table.
We went with the Munchkin Secure Grip Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad. Check the price on Amazon, but it’s around $30.
We also got the Burt’s Bees Baby Changing Pad Cover in grey and yellow stripes and they are both so cute.
Use Baskets for Storage
Baskets are a great way to keep your changing table organized and clutter-free.
They are easy to move around and can be used to store diapers, wipes, creams, and other baby essentials.
Label each basket so you know exactly what is inside and can quickly find what you need.
This changing package is super cute and includes a super helpful basket to sort diapers, creams, etc. Check the price on Amazon, but it’s around $75.
Keep a Diaper Caddy or Organizer Within Reach
A diaper caddy is a great way to keep your baby’s essentials close at hand.
Fill it with diapers, wipes, creams, and any other items you may need during a change.
This will save you time and stress as you won’t have to keep running back and forth to the changing table to grab what you need.
Honestly, everything Munchkin we’ve bought or received has been something that I use and makes my life easier. This organizer is a must have. You can find it for like $20 on Amazon.
Install a Shelf Above the Changing Table
Installing a shelf above the changing table is a great way to make the most of the vertical space in your nursery.
Use it to store items that you don’t need on a regular basis, such as extra clothes, blankets, and toys.
This will help to keep your changing table free from clutter and ensure that everything you need is within reach.
Make Use of the Wall Space
The wall space above the changing table is often overlooked, but it can be a great place to store items that you need on a regular basis.
Install a few hooks to hang up bibs, burp cloths, or even a changing pad cover so they are always within reach.
This is a great way to keep your changing table organized and clutter-free.
Convert Existing Furniture into a Baby Changing Table
If you are looking for a cost-effective way to create a changing table for your baby, you might want to consider converting existing furniture into a changing station.
With a few simple modifications, you can easily turn a dresser, a shelf, a bookcase, a console table, a vintage dry sink, or even a kitchen island into a functional and stylish changing table.
To convert any of these existing pieces into a changing table, simply put a changing pad on top and secure it with safety straps.
Another benefit with all of these options is you already have storage in the existing furniture pieces, and you can add a few shelves or baskets so that essentials like diapers, wipes, creams, and burp cloths are easily grabbed in a pinch.
By converting existing furniture into a changing table, you can save money and make the most of what you already have.
My grandparents were antique dealers, and I’ve had this antique dry sink for decades.
It ended up being the perfect piece of furniture to use as a changing table because it already has four walls and the changing pad fits perfectly inside the sink, with room for a wipe warmer, butt paste, and a small light.
Just make sure to follow safety guidelines, such as securing the changing pad with safety straps, to ensure that your baby is always safe and comfortable during diaper changes.
Do I Actually Need a Changing Table?
No. Absolutely you can use another piece of furniture as discussed above.
You can also just use a portable changing pad and lay it down anywhere. It’s a good option especially if you don’t have a lot of room for extra furniture, or if you’re trying to save some money on a changing table.
But at the same time, it is nice to have a spot where everything is organized and you don’t have to bend over with a changing table.
Does a Changing Table Need to be Against a Wall?
A changing table does not necessarily need to be against a wall, but it is recommended for safety reasons.
When you are changing a baby, you need to have both hands free, and having the table against a wall provides a stable surface that you can use for support.
Additionally, having the table against a wall allows you to secure it to the wall with safety straps, which will help prevent the table from tipping over if a baby tries to roll off.
However, if you have limited space in your nursery and can’t find a spot against a wall, you can still use a changing table by placing it in the center of the room and using safety straps to secure it to the wall or to a nearby piece of furniture.
Just make sure that the changing table is on a level surface and that there is enough space around it to move freely and safely change your baby.
How High Off the Ground Should a Changing Table Be?
The ideal height for a changing table is around waist height for the person who will be primarily using it.
This allows you to comfortably reach your baby and change their diaper without having to bend over, which can strain your back.
Typically, a changing table height of around 36-38 inches is recommended for most adults, but the exact height will depend on your own height and the height of the surface you are using.
If you are using a dresser or a piece of furniture that is not designed to be a changing table, you may need to add risers or blocks under the legs to raise the height to the proper level.
It’s important to note that the height of the changing table should also be adjustable, so that it can be adjusted as your baby grows and you need to change their diaper at a higher level.
This will help prevent back strain and ensure that your baby is always at a comfortable and safe height during diaper changes.
Final Thoughts
A well-stocked and organized baby changing table can make a big difference in your life as a new parent.
By following these baby changing table hacks, you can save time, space, and stress, and ensure that your baby is comfortable and safe during every diaper change.