Change Table

Archive for July, 2010

A wooden baby change table can help with everything from changing the diapers to cleaning the baby. But no matter how spacious the table is, it’s useless unless the contents are well organized. Once the contents are arranged, you’ll be able to appreciate how easy it is to find what you are looking for.

Tips for Buyers

If you haven’t bought a table yet, here are a few suggestions. Look online for the biggest table that you can afford. Or if space is limited, look for a table with drawers and shelves. Those shelves will come in handy for organizing the contents. Second, make sure the table is strong. Not all wooden baby change tables are built equally.

It’s okay to buy a used wood table. In fact, many of the old tables are built as robustly, if not more so than their modern counterparts. You can find these in auction sites and antique shops. Just make sure they are still in good condition. If you still have the table you used as a child, it may be used also.

Bins and Containers

Start by preparing containers. The number and the size of the containers will depend on how many baby necessities you have around. To be safe, prepare three to five large containers and a small one. You can also use baskets or bins.

If you can’t find any lying around the house, you can buy some. These are available in a variety of colors, sizes and shapes. A good choice would be a rectangular container 6 to 8 inches deep. Tip: go for some plastic containers because they are the cheapest. It’s best to use a clear container so you know the contents. If not, mark each one.

Gather the Items

Collect all the necessary items. In one container, put the diapers and wipes. Place it at the top of the table. In the other container, put the anti-rash creams, powder and lotions.

If the table has drawers, put all the baby’s clothes there. It is more convenient to keep all the baby clothes in one place than having to dig through the closet to look for their clothes. One of the nice things about these wood tables is that they have plenty of space.

A wooden baby change table is only as serviceable as the manner in which the contents are arranged. It’s important that you take the time to sort out the contents so the whole changing process will proceed smoothly.

A baby change table is often overlooked in the rush to buy a dresser or crib for the baby. However, this should not be the case particularly for new parents. Here are some suggestions on how to buy the best table possible.

Check the Available Space

Look for a table size you are comfortable working with and at the same time sufficient for the nursery room. If you like a particular model but it seems too big, consider removing some clutter in the nursery.

Make certain there is enough room for you to walk in. If eyeballing the nursery isn’t enough, measure the area with a tape measure. Compare this with the table’s specs.

Features

Today’s baby change tables come in different styles. If you want the most basic, look for one with sufficient place for the baby. There should also be a shelf (preferably two) to contain the diapers. The extra storage space will come in handy for the accessories and the baby wipes.

Look for one with a built-in dresser if you don’t have one. Otherwise skip it because it will add to the price. When you get the table, make sure to arrange the nursery so you won’t have problems using it.

Budget Issues

The more features there are on the table, the more it will cost. Will the basic table do for you, or do you need one with extra features? The quality of the table is often influenced by the cost.

Never settle for a low quality unit. Look for one that you can use for a long time. Consider it an investment. Again, you should focus on your needs and what is best for the baby.

Where to Buy

You can look for affordable quality change tables online. Keep an eye out for discounts too. Other good places to look are garage sales or retail store sales. You will find many of these in the baby accessories section.

Another good place to buy is a consignment shop. If you are buying from a store, have the baby registered. Add the table to your wish list. These baby registries for parents allow their friends to know their requirements.

Although some are able to make do without a baby change table, the task will be so much easier with one. By keeping these basic guidelines in mind, you won’t have problems getting the unit to satisfy your requirements.

Baby change table dimensions vary a great deal, as do their shapes. Many people prefer a waist high table, but others are more inclined towards high ones. Besides the height, there are other issues about space you have to consider.

Table Size and Space

If nursery space isn’t a problem, any size will do. If room is limited, look for the combination dressers and changing tables. Often called high-low dressers, they can save you a lot of space.

These tables have room for storing clothes, diapers and accessories. They are all in one place so it is convenient. Check the height and make sure that you can reach it without having to stretch.

Space for the Accessories

Take stock of all the diapers, wipes and changing items that you’ll need to have at the table. These may include baby thermometers, nail trimming supplies, extra clothing, washcloths, lotions and diapers. Is there room for all these items?

If there isn’t any, is there room where you can place the supplies? It is imperative that the supplies are kept nearby so there’s no need to leave the baby to get them. Do not place these supplies across the room.

Sturdiness and Safety Features

Apart from the baby change table dimensions, the quality of the table is also important. Make certain the table is solidly built. Do not buy the table if it appears in any way wobbly or uneven.

A table that doesn’t look safe at the store definitely isn’t safe for use at home. It’s also a good idea to buy tables with rails. Ensure the rails are securely attached before using it.

About Buying Older Changing Tables

Make sure the table is in good condition, meaning there are no exposed nails, splinters or other defects. Unlike cribs, purchasing older tables is all right because their safety features haven’t changed that much. As long as it is structurally sound, you should have no problems using them.

Alternatives

If space is limited, you can place a diaper changing station over a dresser. Old nursery dressers can be used. If you’ll be using this approach, place a basket nearby so you can store all the needed supplies. If you will use the dresser as the table, make sure the surface is sufficient.

Baby change table dimensions vary, but that’s no reason to get confused. Just keep the facts stated earlier in mind, and you won’t make a mistake when purchasing the table.

If you’re having trouble replacing diapers, getting a baby changing top could be what you need. The following are some tips for first time buyers.

Size

Make sure that it is sufficient for your needs. Remember that the dresser size is not the same as the top dimensions. A dresser that is 32.87″ high, 42.12″ wide and 20.12″ deep will have a top with different measurements.

When looking at the top’s dimensions, make sure that it is sufficient not just for the baby. It must also be big enough for the supplies.

Materials

The most popular change tables are hardwood and stainless steel. Stainless steel is very strong, so it is a good choice. When it comes to wood, you can choose from different colors and finishes. For example, there are clean white wood with accents. Needless to say, the wood has to be of good quality.

Drawers, Shelves and Other Features

The baby changing top is just one matter to consider. Next, choose between the shelves and drawers. The best option is the open shelves so everything will be visible. The straps and rails have to be included. The rails have to be at least two inches high. There are many older changing tables without straps. Don’t use these, or buy one with straps.

Warranty and Delivery Issues

Check the warranty; it has to be at least one year. The longer the warranty, the better it is. Make sure you understand if it covers the table too, besides the top.

The other thing you have to look into is the delivery service. Some companies have delivery free service, while others charge a large amount. Calculate the amount. Note that some online services usually ship in the US, but restrictions may apply in other countries. Read the shipping and delivery rules.

Other Considerations

Changing tables come in different styles. The open shelves have protective railings to keep the baby safe. Getting the items is also easy. The dresser drawer comes with shelving and drawers.

One of the advantages of using this model is it can double up as a dresser. The combo units are more suited for rooms with limited space. These come with changing pads that make diaper changing easy.

The baby changing top has to be assessed thoroughly before you buy it. Aside from its size, its safety features should be looked into. As mentioned earlier, the other components have to be evaluated too.

One of the best ways to organize baby items is to use the baby change table drawers. A table with shelves can also be used to reduce the clutter. Combined with bins and containers, the result will be a cleaner and better organized table.

Using the Drawers

The number of items you can put in the drawers will depend on the number of drawers available. One of its most popular uses is to store baby diapers and wipes. As these drawers are located under the table, they will be in easy reach.

You can put the diapers and wipes in one drawer or in separate ones. Another drawer can be used for storing lotions, cotton swabs and other hygienic products.

Arranging Clothes in Drawers

Some like to keep the baby’s clothes in the baby change table drawers. One of the advantages of using this option is they become easily accessible. This is especially true if the closet is in another room. Even if the closet is in the room, putting them in the drawers will make them easier to access.

Start by putting the blankets in one drawer. In another drawer, place the socks and pants in another drawer. If you like you can put the socks in with hats. You can save space in the drawers by folding the socks.

Bedding and Blankets

These are the biggest items in the change table, so a dedicated drawer will be necessary. To save space, get the blankets and fold them. Fold in the same manner so you can stack them up. Or you can roll them up if you want. Group the blankets, sheets and towels.

Using Containers and Bins

If the drawers are not enough, use containers. You can buy containers and put the creams, lotions and powder there. The wipes and diapers can be placed in the drawer. If the drawers can only hold the clothes, get rectangular containers for the diapers and wipes.

It may also help to place a trash can nearby so you can dispose of the diapers. It’s a good idea to assess your needs so you can get the items necessary. If you don’t do this, you might have problems with space.

Before deciding what baby change table drawers to get, it’s important to assess your needs first. It will help you determine how many drawers you actually require and if containers are necessary. A little bit of planning is necessary.

Commercial baby change tables come in different styles, all claiming to be the best. To help you sort out the different models, here are the factors that have to be considered.

Sturdiness

More than anything else, it is the sturdiness of the table that counts. Check the table legs; they need to be strong. The table must be able to support the weight of the baby and the items you’ll be putting there.

These may be more expensive, you can be sure of their strength. If the table is too cheap, take a good long look; it could be made of low quality material.

Straps and Guardrails

Straps keep the baby from rolling off the table. Newer tables always have this, but some older models don’t. Do not use a table without the straps; it is a must.

Guardrails are also essential. These rails have to be at least two inches high, but the higher the better. But even if there are straps and rails, never let go of the baby. Have at least one hand on them always.

Changing Pads

Commercial baby change tables usually have pads included but you can buy them separately. They act as a cushion when changing the baby. You can choose from different styles, including disposable, waterproof, contoured and flat.

The most important thing is to get a pad that is easy to clean up. Here’s a tip: purchase a changing pad and put a fabric on top of it. Next, iron-on a water-resistant plastic. You can buy this plastic at a fabric shop. To clean, wipe the plastic with a sanitizer.

Storage Space

There are two types of storage, open shelves and drawers. It is better to get open shelves so you can see which supplies are running low. It also puts everything within reach.

Other Tips

The ideal table top is concave, with the center a bit lower compared to the sides. It must also be big enough to keep the supplies. For older babies, you’ll need to have some toys nearby to keep them busy.

Have a trash can nearby so you can dispose of items easily. Do not allow the baby to play with the diapers; they might tear off pieces and eat it.

These commercial baby change tables are now widely available. But whether you decide to buy online or in stores, take the time to go over the factors mentioned earlier.

A baby changing table dresser is something parents can use in lieu of commercially available products. If the dresser has no sides, you can still use them but certain safety steps have to be taken.

Required Materials

Changing pad with safety belt
Permanent marker
Slip proof shelf liner

Step 1

Prepare the necessary items. This will include the creams, diapers and wipes. You’ll want to keep some toys nearby so older babies will be occupied.

Step 2

Begin by looking for a waist high dresser. Position the drawer in an unobstructed spot in the nursery. This is necessary especially if you have to change diapers in the middle of the night. A good option would be to place the baby changing table dresser close to the crib.

Step 3

Set the shelf liner so the liner is longer than the change pad. Using the permanent marker, trace the changing pad edges to the shelf liner. Slice the liner by the traced lines.

Step 4

Position the shelf liner on the dresser right on the spot where the pad will be utilized. Set the changing pad on the shelf liner. Check that the pad holds the dresser even when pushed a bit.

Step 5

Place the diapers, diaper cream, box of wipes and toys on the pad’s side. Make sure the items are within easy reach. If you can get the items without letting go of the baby, the distance is all right.

Always place the diapers in a visible spot. This way you will clearly see if there are still some left. Another benefit of placing them on the dresser is the items will be within easy reach.

Step 6

When everything is set, place the baby on the changing pad and secure the safety belt. Even if the safety belt is on, always keep hold of the infant. Never completely rely on the safety belt.

Tips and Warnings

Never, ever leave the baby when changing the diapers. Make sure the table is in a low traffic area. Keep the table as clean as possible. Only add the items that are necessary. Keeping the dresser clutter free will make diaper changing less stressful.

It takes a bit of management to use a baby changing table dresser, but it can be done. Always keep an eye on the available items. By making sure everything is well stocked, problems with supplies can be avoided. You should also check the shelf liner often.

The right baby changing table dimensions will be the one you are most comfortable with. Many individuals prefer the waist high type, which is around 33 to 43 inches high. While waist high may be regarded as the standard, widths will vary.

Assessing the Proper Table Size

The most important factor is how much space you need to store all the necessary baby items. If it will be just the diapers, wipes and baby powder, a small table will do. But if you use lotions and extra clothes, more space will be necessary.

You need to ensure the table has enough space for these items. Don’t buy a smaller table and put the supplies far away. That means you‘ll have to leave the baby unattended to on the table.

Consider getting a high-low dresser if space is limited. These are combination dressers and changing tables. Their compact design and storage can be a real benefit. The most important baby changing table dimensions is the height. You wouldn’t want one where you’ll have to stop or stretch to get something.

Tips for Buyers

Whatever design you pick, make sure that the table is sturdy. When shopping, check the table for any defects. Give it a good shake. If it wobbles, look for another one. A sturdy table is especially important for babies that are wriggly.

If those new models are too expensive, you can find affordable ones in antique shops. Provided they are in good condition, you will have no problems using them. Some online shops also sell these tables at competitive prices.

Making the Most of the Available Space

Get all the items ready before the table is even there. This will save you time when arranging the accessories. Fold all the clothes and arrange them. Keep the clothes in the drawers or shelves. Separate the sweaters, socks and shirts.

To save space, place a basket near the table. Put the washcloths and towels there. Set aside a shelf of the table where you can store the baby wipes, lotions and powder. Keep all the hygienic products together. Set aside some table space for the toys. Use these to keep the baby busy when changing the diapers.

The baby changing table dimensions are important because it will determine how easily you can change the diapers. A spacious table will also make the baby feel more comfortable. Besides the physical size, the drawers included should also be assessed.

Baby change table mats are especially handy since babies often need diaper replacements at various times. Here are some of the facts about the mats you ought to know before you buy one.

Unpadded and Padded Baby Mats

The mats may be unpadded or padded. The padded mats are filled with foam. Many like them because they are comfortable. The drawback is that it isn’t that portable.

Some changing mats have memory foam instead. These have warmth retention capabilities. The foam also holds the baby’s shape. If you are looking for padded materials, choose cotton or microfiber. They are the most popular and reliable.

The unpadded mats are foldable. This means you can store them in a bag. They are ideal for use when you are traveling with the baby. When looking for unpadded baby change table mats, look for those with compartments and pockets. This will let you store the baby wipes, diapers and other supplies.

Shapes and Styles

The shapes vary, but the most popular are the wedge-shaped and flat shaped. The wedge shaped mats come with additional padding at the sides. This can help keep the infant in the middle of the mat as you are changing the diaper. The flat mats have raised sides and head. This also serves a similar purpose as the padding.

Padding Covers

The mat wipe clean cover materials vary, but the most widely used are PVC or vinyl. If you are going to buy the PVC cover, ensure that it is free of phthalate.

There are many types of covers, but their purpose is the same; to provide a surface for the infant. Many of the covers have a toweling fabric that acts as a cushion. In terms of changing covers, pure cotton is the best option. For easy maintenance, the cover has to be machine washable. If not, wash it by hand.

Accessories

A foam wedge can be put below the head of the infant when raising their legs. This will keep the baby from feeling sick especially if they just ate. Take a look at the different types of accessories. Read the product description to determine if you really need it. Don’t let the manufacturer decide for you; only you can determine if it is necessary.

A baby change table mat can simplify the process of replacing the diapers. The key is to do some research so you will be able to buy the right product.

A baby bath changing station is used to raise the infant up to your waist when changing them. The advantage of using this accessory is you don’t have to bend over. This is important especially for those with back problems. Another benefit is they can hold everything you require.

Features and Characteristics

As there are many manufacturers, the features of the stations will vary. Some of the features you may come across are an integral harness and fixed, wipe-clean, PVC covered changing surface. In some models, there may be accessory trays.

You can use these to store various supplies. For convenience, look for those shelves and storage trays. They can be used for stacking up clothes, towels and others items.

Another thing you should look at is the castor wheels. This can be useful if you have to move the station. Make sure it is locked when stationed. Another nice feature to have would be a foldaway frame. This is useful if space is limited.

Bath Features

The baby bath changing station usually has a lift-up top with the bath below it. This will have a drainage pipe and a plug. Depending on the setup, you may have to use a jug to fill the bath and drain into a container. However, some models have other features that make baby bathing easier to do.

Other Elements

The stations may also be used as a chest drawer or shelving unit. Although many materials may be used, most are made from wood. Note that the PVC mat is usually sold separately.

Buying Considerations

Assess the available space and think of how you intend to utilize the station. Think also where you want to put the station. Some may prefer it in the bathroom, while others may opt for one in the nursery. Also keep in mind that the castors are useful only if you intend to move it around.

Otherwise, they are not necessary. Think also of how long you want to use them. Note also that some of these models may double up as a piece of furniture. They are however, usually more costly. Don’t forget to check out different stores, both retail and online. This will take time, but it will be worth it.

Buying the baby bath changing station entails a lot of planning. Just like other baby accessories, it s important that you go over each feature before deciding what to buy.