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Changing Table Accessories

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The main purpose of changing tables is to have a convenient place to change a baby’s diaper. In order to have smooth diaper changes, be sure to have certain accessories on hand.

• Changing Pads: The most important accessory to have for your changing table is the changing pad. A changing pad is a soft, cushioned surface that the baby lies on during the diaper changes. It is best to buy a changing pad that has a contour shape, or sides that are raised, to help prevent baby from rolling away. Be sure that your changing pad is attached to the changing table in a way that does not allow it to slip off of the changing table. Some changing pads come equipped with safety straps if your changing table does not. Changing pads should be thick and placed at a comfortable height for you. Changing pads are easy to clean and should aid in the sanitation of diaper changes.
o Changing Pad Covers are available to cover your changing pad for added comfort for baby. You should keep about two changing pad covers on hand to ensure that you always have a clean one ready to go.

o For additional protection, and to keep yourself from having to repeatedly wash your changing pad cover, lap pads are thick, water-proof pads that lie on top of the changing pad cover. If baby has an accident while getting his diaper changed, the lap pad usually takes care of the mess and keeps you from having to change and launder the entire changing pad cover. Lap pads are also handy to keep in your diaper bag for impromptu changes while away from your home.

• Diapers, Wipes, Ointments, Etc.

Here are some suggestions of products to keep handy in or around your changing table:

• Diapers: Expect to use up to 10 diapers a day with a newborn.
• Wipes: You can even purchase a Wipes Warmer to prevent cold wipes from touching baby’s bottom.
• Diaper Ointment: Diaper rash is almost inevitable for babies. Keep a supply of diaper rash crème, such as Desitin, on-hand at all times.
• Lotions and other grooming supplies: Baby will get used to having his hygienic needs taken care of on his changing table, as it is a safe and convenient place to do so. Use this opportunity to massage your baby with lotion or to trim his nails or brush his hair.
• Mobiles and Toys: There are certain mobiles designed to attach to your wall or ceiling to distract and entertain baby while you are busing changing him. Also consider storing rattles or small toys that baby can play with to keep him busy.
• Miscellaneous: Changing tables are designed for your convenience, so store whatever items you think your baby would enjoy and that would enhance your time together.

So how do you know if you can afford a changing table? Expect to pay between $100 - $250 for most models. Dressers and some “designer” changing tables can cost between $200 for a small, unfinished pine dresser to several hundred dollars for a high-quality, finished table.

Sources:

1. “Changing Table Safety”: www.jpma.org/consumer/JPMAPressReleaesBabySafety/pr-072499.htm
2. “The Changing Table Safety and Comfort”: www.baby-furniture-guides.com/changing-table.html
3. “Choosing a Changing Table”: www.babyconnection.com/buyingguides/changingtables/
4. “The Lowdown on Changing Tables”: www.babycenter.com/refcap/pregnancygear/1702.html

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