Change Table

Archive for August, 2010

If your budget is not sufficient, you can make a baby change table instead of buying one. Before you start, make sure the nursery room has plenty of space so you can do the job easily.

Required Materials

Table, shelves or dresser
Changing pad with restricting belt

Step 1

Start by looking for a dresser or shelves. Look for one with contoured edges. Make sure that the table will be smooth and robust. Do not use a table with any splinters.

In terms of dimensions, get one that is 36 to 43 inches high or waist high. If you feel more comfortable with a higher table, go for it. It is much better to get a fat, short dresser than a tall thin one.

If you’ll be using a high dresser, secure it to the wall with straps. This is for safety precautions. Make sure the dresser has drawers or shelves. You will need them to store the cloths, ointment, diapers and other baby accessories. If you’ll be needing more supplies, get a table with lots of surface space.

Step 2

Before you make a baby change table, wipe the surface clean using a damp cloth. Open the drawers and clean them. Clean the shelves as well.

Step 3

Hook up the contoured changing pad at the top of the dresser, table or shelves. Follow the directions as specified in the package. Usually these pads will have a couple of belts or straps. Fasten them at the top of the table so slipping won’t occur. When the changing is complete, the pad can be taken off with ease.

Step 4

Gather the baby wipes, diapers, lotions, ointments, creams etc. Organize them in the drawers and shelves.

Tips and Warnings

Restraints or tip-over tops may be used to keep unstable furniture steady. Better yet, don’t use unstable furniture at all. Don’t put heavy objects like stereos components or TVs on the dresser.

Don’t put the baby on the table until you are certain the straps are secure. After using the baby wipes and other accessories, return the items to the place where you took them. This way you won’t have problems finding the items when you need them.

If the straps are worn off, buy new straps immediately. The way straps are put on varies; check the manufacturer user guide.

As you can see, it is easy to make a baby change table. It doesn’t take a lot of time, and you can save a lot of money by creating your own.

A stainless steel baby change table is becoming very popular because of its sturdiness. Because these tables come in many varieties, deciding what to get can be difficult for first time buyers. As with all baby necessities, the emphasis has to be on safety for the infant.

Essential Safety Features

Start by looking for a table with sufficient width and height. For many, waist high is the ideal height. In terms of width, look for one as big as you can afford. The wider the table, the more items you’ll be able to put there.

Not all steel tables are made the same way; look for one that is strong and doesn’t wobble. Side rails are also important. They will keep the baby from rolling off the table.

Styles

Some people like to change baby diapers while at the baby’s feet. Others like to do it when they are at the side. Some tables are built for one or the other. Others can accommodate both styles. Assess the table design and look for the one that suits your style.

These stainless steel baby change tables have different organizational techniques. Look for models with shelves and drawers under the table. Use this space to store the creams, ointments, diapers, wipes and other accessories.

Before you buy, take stock of all the items you’ll be using. Be certain all the items you’ll need will fit on the table. This is important so you don’t end up leaving the table to get something.

Budgetary Issues

The most expensive isn’t always necessary. For a few hundred dollars you can get quality tables. When setting up a budget, don’t go overboard, but don’t settle for mediocre types either.

When setting your budget, include the cost of diapering supplies, changing pad, pad cover and others. Good places to buy cheap but usable steel tables are thrift shops and resale stores. Online shops are also likely candidates for discount or affordable tables.

Tips

Make sure the table conforms to the safety manufacturing standards of your country. In the US, the guardrail has to be 2 inches around the table. An adjustable strap is also necessary. Ideally, the top has to be concave. Ensure it is big enough so you can get the supplies.

No matter how sturdy the stainless steel baby change table may be, never leave your baby alone on it. It doesn’t matter if they are on straps. If you must leave the table, carry the baby.