Safety considerations
birthTIPS
Change tables are designed for placing your baby on them to change their nappy, dress or undress them. Many change tables also provide storage areas underneath for nappies, clothes and toiletries with a few designs incorporating a baby bath. Change tables are not an essential item and the decision to buy or borrow one will generally come down to your personal preferences and the available space you have in your home.
Most parents will create some type of designated 'change area' for the baby, stocked with clean nappies, wipes or cotton balls etc. within easy reach (for frequent use both day and night!) Babies can be changed on nearly any flat, stable surface. You may prefer a purpose built change table that is waist level (to help prevent back strain) or you may be able to improvise. Many parents will just use a change mat that can be moved from room to room, or place one on top of a chest of drawers or table. Change mats are usually made from plastic or vinyl covered foam (for easy cleaning) and are concave in shape, to prevent the baby from rolling or sliding off them.
Change tables can be made of wood, sturdy plastic or have a metal frame. They usually have protective side rails, a waterproof pad for the baby to lie on and possibly a safety belt on top. Most have some kind of storage area underneath, such as an open-shelf system where everything on the shelves is in sight and easy to reach. Others are equipped with a set of dresser drawers, which may offer a little more versatility for later storage after your child has outgrown the change table.
NOTE:Regardless of whether you choose to use a change table or just a change mat, the major safety concern is that your baby may fall from a height. Therefore,
NEVER leave your baby unattended when changing, even for the briefest moment.
Safety considerations
Safety considerations for change tables include: