How to find the right changing table?

Categories: Baby's Room

To welcome a baby's arrival in the best conditions, young parents must buy various essential nursery equipment. Among these, the changing table allows moms and dads to change baby safely.

Beyond the comfort it provides, this type of furniture also helps decorate the child's room. It also includes several storage spaces for keeping necessary accessories during baby's diaper changes. However, there's such a wide range of models on the market that it can be difficult to navigate. Here's a guide that can help you carefully choose the product that suits your needs.

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What is a changing table used for?

The changing table is a fairly tall piece of furniture composed of a changing pad and a rigid support, on top of which you can change your baby's diapers, comfortably dress or undress the infant, and perform their hygiene care.

Also called a changing dresser or changing table, this equipment allows young parents to avoid back pain during the process.

Like the baby crib, the changing table is one of the essential nursery items on your little one's baby registry. Its use offers many advantages.

Sure, it's possible to change baby on a couch or bed with just a towel underneath. But this position leads to unbearable back pain over time.

If the little one wiggles, they might also fall to the ground. Opting for a changing table represents a safer alternative. This approach also contributes to the child's development.

Criteria to consider before purchasing your equipment

The changing table comes in many variations. It can be standalone or combined (dresser), made of natural wood, melamine, or plastic. To make the best choice for a changing table, you must consider many parameters such as height, depth, mattress type, storage options, safety standards, and budget.

Furniture dimensions

Start by checking the height of the changing table. On average, this unit measures between 82 and 97 cm high to be comfortable to use. You must consider your height to be able to change baby and perform hygiene care without any risk. The ideal is to choose a height, neither too high nor too low, that makes you comfortable and ensures optimal comfort.

Also pay attention to the depth of the unit. If too short, your child will outgrow it quickly. Choose a deeper model, between 70 and 80 cm, which can be used longer, at least until 18 months. A wall-mounted changing table that faces the baby offers more practicality.

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Which mattress to choose?

Since this changing unit will be used frequently during your baby's first months, the changing pad is a crucial parameter. 

Note that some models don't include one. Also check for the presence of a mattress cover, preferably one that's easy to remove and washable.

What type of storage should you plan for?

Nothing better than having all necessary accessories within reach to change your baby or perform their hygiene care safely. Storage space is therefore an important selection criterion.

Some models offer shelves, trays, drawers, compartments, cabinets, or small baskets to keep within reach items like baby lotion, brush, washcloths, wipes, diapers, etc. The key is to choose a practical and comfortable model.

The changing dressers offer plenty of storage space like a real piece of furniture. They may take up more space, but all baby items remain easily accessible. Even your little one's clothes find their proper drawer.

Some changing tables are space-saving and simply attach to the baby crib or bathtub. Folding or wall-mounted models provide more convenience. Choose a folding table, which is less bulky, if your space is more limited.

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Essential safety standards to follow

The changing table must meet safety standards. Among others, the European standard NF EN 12 221 ensures product stability and the effectiveness of its side protections. You should still regularly check the screws and fixings.

A model compliant with standards must include the mention: "compliant with current safety requirements". This way, you'll be assured of using a stable piece of furniture that presents no risk of falling on the sides.

Also ensure that changing tables equipped with wheels have a braking system and a functional locking mechanism.

Material

Whether wood, melamine, or plastic, the material is one of the determining selection criteria. It also affects the price and design of the equipment.

Price

The price of a changing table varies greatly, ranging from €50 to over €1,000. The most expensive models are of high quality. However, it's not necessary to spend a fortune to have a practical, solid, and reliable changing table.

What are the different types of changing tables?

To find the changing table that suits your needs, it's better to know the different varieties available.

The classic changing table

Each type of changing table has its own characteristics. The classic model includes a platform mounted on four legs and storage shelves. It can be fixed, folding, or equipped with wheels for easy movement.

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The wall-mounted changing table

Discreet and functional, the wall-mounted changing table saves space in baby's room. It's mounted on the wall.

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The changing dresser

The removable changing top installs on top of a dresser. It has many storage drawers.

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The changing table with bathtub

The changing table with bathtub includes a bathtub in addition to the changing surface, allowing you to bathe your baby.

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