With all of the diapers you will be changing as a new parent, a baby diaper changing table provides you with a convenient, clean and safe place to change your baby's diapers. Changing tables come in a variety of colors, styles and brands that can match anyone's personal style and existing nursery furniture. We have listed below some things you should keep in mind when choosing a baby changing table.
What to look for when shopping
Sturdiness
- This is the most important quality to look for in a changing table. Look for a table with solids legs and one that doesn't look weak and fragile.
Safety Straps
- While most changing tables come with safety straps, this is a must have feature when using a diaper changing table. These safety straps allow you to strap down your baby so he or she can't roll off the table.
Guardrails
- The higher the guardrails are around the table the safer your baby is going to be. But even when your changing table has high rails, always use the safety strap and keep one hand on your baby at all times.
Changing pad
- Changing pads are usually purchased separately from the table and come in a variety of styles (flat, contoured, waterproof, disposable). The main thing to keep in mind when choosing a pad is that you will want a changing pad that can be easily cleaned. TIP: Buy a changing pad; cover it with a fabric that you like and then iron-on a waterproof plastic. This iron-on waterproof plastic can be purchased at your local fabric store and is very easy to apply. With your changing pad covered in waterproof plastic all you have to do is wipe off the pad with soap and water and some type of sanitizer.
Storage
- You will need a place to store diapers, wipes, creams, ointments and washcloths. While some parents prefer storage drawers; most parents prefer the open shelves on the majority of changing tables. This allows you to have everything in reach when your changing your baby's diaper.
Article From : http://www.thenewparentsguide.com/choosing-a-baby-changing-table.htm
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Built a Baby Changing Table
Go to Mateur Woodworker for free Baby Changing Table plans.
http://www.am-wood.com/july99/baby.html
Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard with Bassinet and Changing Table
Product Description
This Pack 'n Play includes both a full size bassinet and a changing table. Push button fold makes setting up a breeze - just unfold, pull up the sides, lock them into place and voila - you've got a comfy quilted baby environment for your little one to play or rest.The full-size bassinet with quilted bumper and mattress pads, for infants up to 15 lbs, offers a great nap place where your little one can rest peacefully or delight in the soft, detachable toys hanging from the canopy. When baby needs a little extra soothing, try the 2-speed mattress mounted vibration, and one of the five nature sounds or tranquil songs. And with a timer that has 4 settings there's no need to disturb your little one once he or she has drifted off to sleep. But if you do want to take a peek, there's a built in night light. And when diaper duty calls, there is a convenient, removable, folding changing table and a parent organizer so your diapering supplies are close by. A convenient travel bag is also included - just fold the Pack 'n Play playard up, stow it in the bag, and you and your little one are off to see the world! Features: Removable full-size bassinet with quilted bumper pad provides cozy nap-time space Quilted mattress pad for baby's comfort Enhanced electronics unit entertains and soothes with: 2-speed mattress mounted vibration 5 classical songs + 5 soothing nature sounds Night light to illuminate controls Check light shines on baby's sleep area Timer settings of 5, 10, 15 or 25 minutes Mobile with removable toys provides amusement Changing table for quick diaper duty Parent Organizer keeps diapering supplies close by Push-button fold makes folding easy Wheels for better mobility in the home Unique swept frame makes functionality stylish Mesh on four sides improves ventilation Easy to store and transport in handy carry bagDimensions and Specifications: Weight: 30.6 lbs Height: 32.5 Width: 30.5 Length: 38 Bassinets for use with babies up to 15 lbs Changing Station for u
Customer Reviews
By Decorating Fanatic (GA)
I have this pack n play in G Collection. We have gotten our money's worth. We love to travel so we frequently use this as her bed when we are out of town. Its easy to breakdown and set up. When we are home we use it downstairs for naps and as a playpen. Since it comes with a mini changing table you always have somewhere high to change the baby.
My only criticism has been for the mobile. Several times the mobile has fallen in on my daughter. For that reason, we don't even try to use the mobile anymore we just keep it in the closet.
By Lisa Ward (Floral Park, New York United States)
I bought this for a baby shower gift for a friend and she really loves it. I checked it out at Babys R Us where she was registered. I had trouble purchasing it from them - neither my bank nor Babys R Us could figure it out so I looked on Amazon and it was much cheaper and it came very quickly and I had no problem whatsoever purchasing this product.
Baby Changing Pad by Basic Comfort
Baby Changing Padby Basic Comfort
Basic Comfort Baby Changing Pad Cover fits on top of your baby's changing table and dressers for spaces at least 16 x 32 inches.The changing pad is made of durable, comfort foam that feels both substantial and soft, and change any flat surface into a safe, A safety strap with easy-release buckle provides add security for your little bundle.
Basic Comfort Baby Changing Pad is Easy to change cover padSunday, July 13, 2008
Pure White Andover Changing Table by South Shore
By South Shore
South Shore changing table is the perfect place to dress and cuddle with your Baby. Furthermore, Embossed plank effect on the two roomy drawers and 3 open cubbies for additional storage keeping their clothing toys, and other necessities supplies organized is really simple. This model features durable construction fiberboard with laminated paper veneer finish, wood handles in pure white finish.
Product Features: Constructed of particleboard with a Pure White finish Ships Ready-to-Assemble 5-year manufacturer's limited warranty
Product Dimensions: 20Wx35Lx36H"
Product Weight: Approximately 82 lbs
Monday, July 7, 2008
Badger Basket Baby Changing Table
Product Description
This charming sleigh-style changing table features two nicely sized shelves and ample room on top for changing diapers or dressing your baby. It's made of beautiful hardwood with a non-toxic finish. And when your baby outgrows the table, it becomes a useful and attractive piece of furniture for holding clothes or toys. Changing table comes with a soft mattress pad and safety strap. Safety rails enclose all four sides around the top of the table. A metal support bar beneath the changing surface provides additional stability.
With the addition of nursery baskets (sold separately), it's easy to store and organize all your changing supplies. A streamlined hardware and assembly system makes it a breeze to put together; and most of the hardware is concealed so the attractive styling of the table is not interrupted. Illustrated assembly instructions included. Wipe clean with mild soap and a damp cloth when needed. Unit measures 37.5"L x 19"W x 37.5"H. Shelves measure 32"L x 17.5"D with a 1-3/8" lip around all four edges to keep items from falling off.
From the Manufacturer
Hardware and assembly system is a breeze to put together; and most of the hardware is concealed so the attractive styling of the table is not interrupted! The changing table features two nicely sized shelves and ample room on top for changing diapers or dressing your baby. Overall size of 37.5"L x 19"W x 37.5"H. Shelves measure 32"L x 17.5"D with a 1-3/8" lip around all four edges to keep items from falling off. Changing table is made of hardwood with a non-toxic finish. When Baby outgrows this table, it becomes a useful and attractive piece of furniture for holding clothes or toys. Also includes a soft mattress pad and safety strap. Safety rails enclose all four sides around the top of the table. Metal support bar beneath the changing surface provides additional stability. With the addition of nursery baskets (sold separately) it makes it easy to store and organize your changing supplies! Illustrated assembly instructions included. Wipe clean with mild soap and a damp cloth when needed.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
How to Choose Baby Changing Tables
Changing tables provide a safe place to diaper and dress your baby. However, if you don't want to spend the money, an alternative will do.
To be functional, a changing table should be at a height comfortable for you to handle the baby without having to lean over. It should have a waterproof pad and enough space for open storage of shirts and diapers, or you'll waste time gathering needed items for each change.
A changing table is a safe, stable place to change your baby's diaper.
A changing table is a safe, stable place to change your baby's diaper.
It should have a safety belt that is wide and easy to use (but not so easy that the baby can release it). Never use the table without using the safety belt-it takes only a few seconds for the baby to fall when your back is turned. However, never assume a belted baby is safe left unattended.
Commercially available changing tables usually have a long, slender, padded area for changing and an area of open shelves underneath for storage. Most of these changing tables fold for storage.
When buying a changing table, look for one that has high sides around the changing area to prevent your baby from rolling out. The covering on the foam pad should be of thick, smooth vinyl, which makes it easier to clean. Make sure the table is sturdy and doesn't wobble or tip over easily. Many parents find it extremely frustrating to assemble these tables and get the legs balanced, so we suggest you purchase one preassembled.
Look for shelves that are spacious and open or easy to access; many popular models have small, narrow, half-open boxes for shelves, which can be very hard to use. Look for a model that features stable side shelves for holding washcloths and other items. Attachable side pails for soiled items are also very useful.
A changing table is useful only for about the first two years, so if you're on a tight budget you may want an alternative. You can use a wide table or even the padded top of a dresser instead. You can buy a special top that secures to a dresser to convert it to a changing table. But if you're going to use the top of a dresser, don't put your baby's accessories in the dresser -- it's dangerous to rummage through drawers to find items while holding the baby steady on the table with one hand.
You will want some sort of an open-shelf system nearby instead. Some parents construct a wall-to-wall shelf in a closet at the appropriate height and top it with a vinyl-covered pad; you might also use a portable crib raised to its highest position.
When using a changing table, keep diapers handy and ready for use. If you use cloth diapers, keep all pins closed and out of baby's reach. Have a container of water handy. Baby wipes -- or toilet paper attached to the wall -- and a wastebasket nearby makes the arrangement even more workable.
Friday, July 4, 2008
How to buy: A changing table
The lowdown on changing tables
You certainly need a comfortable place to change your baby's diapers (you will have changed more than 2,400 by her first birthday!).
But you may not need to buy a table designed just for that purpose. Some parents simply change their baby on the floor of the baby's room (on a waterproof changing pad), with diapering supplies stowed in a nearby basket. If your back can take it, this approach certainly works. One mom we know used precious nursery space for a twin bed rather than a changing table — she and her baby sat in the middle of the bed for diaper changes (and the bed was also invaluable for snoozing between night awakenings).
Some parents simply buy a changing pad and place it on top of a dresser. You can store diapers and wipes in the top drawer. If you're going this route, make sure that you buy a thick changing pad and that your dresser is at a comfortable height for you. However, if you can't anchor the pad to the dresser, this may not be the best option, for safety's sake.
Another money- and space-saving alternative is to buy an indoor play yard that includes a removable changer.
If you have the cash and the space, you have your choice of well-designed, practical, and attractive changing tables. And as your baby grows — many parents use changing tables well into their child's second year — such a table can offer more security for your baby. Many are equipped with railings and straps to hold their wriggling occupants in place.
What to look for when buying
If you want to buy a new changing table, you have two options: a separate changing table or a combination dresser and changing table.
As appealing as a combination piece of furniture may seem, we recommend the first style. The reason? A standard dresser with a top that flips open to reveal a padded changing area sounds great in theory. But it may not be as stable as it should be, according to Consumer Reports Guide to Baby Products, which says the flip-open tops can cause the entire chest to topple when you place a baby's weight on the outer edge. In light of this design flaw, you may want to avoid this type of changing table, or look for one with an exposed changing area (minus the flip-open top).
Plus, as your child gets older, she'll need a dresser, not a changing table, so it may be better to buy a separate dresser that will last throughout childhood and beyond.
When purchasing a changing table, look for the following features:
• A guardrail: The higher the protective guardrail around the table, the better. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a railing that's at least 2 inches (5centimeters) high on all sides. But even with the highest possible guardrail in place, you should always keep one hand on your baby while she's on the table. One quick body contortion and she could be airborne.
• Safety straps: You can install your own safety straps, but why bother when plenty of models provide them? You'll absolutely need these to help secure your baby.
• Sturdiness: This is essential. Look for sturdy, stable legs. Shake the table with your hands, and if it feels rickety, move on to the next model.
• Storage: Make sure it has a place to store diapers, wipes, and creams. In general, you'll find that open shelves running the length of the unit are more convenient than small, high-sided baskets. The storage areas should be out of reach of a crawling, standing, or walking baby. At the same time, you shouldn't have to bend or take your eyes off your baby to access these items.
Important safety note
A BabyCenter reader writes, "My daughter fractured her skull falling off her changing table onto our hardwood floors. I was getting her PJs on after a bath. I turned to grab something and heard a thump. She had fallen 4 feet in a split second. Don't let the same thing happen to you!"
Never leave your baby unattended on a changing table, even for a moment. And although a strap is a great aid, it's not a substitute for your hands-on supervision. Always keep at least one hand on your baby when she's on the changing table.
What it's going to cost you
Most changing tables cost between $100 and $215. Combination dresser and changing tables can cost anywhere from $200 for a small, unfinished pine dresser to $400 or more for a high-quality, finished unit.
Source: www.babycenter.com
You certainly need a comfortable place to change your baby's diapers (you will have changed more than 2,400 by her first birthday!).
But you may not need to buy a table designed just for that purpose. Some parents simply change their baby on the floor of the baby's room (on a waterproof changing pad), with diapering supplies stowed in a nearby basket. If your back can take it, this approach certainly works. One mom we know used precious nursery space for a twin bed rather than a changing table — she and her baby sat in the middle of the bed for diaper changes (and the bed was also invaluable for snoozing between night awakenings).
Some parents simply buy a changing pad and place it on top of a dresser. You can store diapers and wipes in the top drawer. If you're going this route, make sure that you buy a thick changing pad and that your dresser is at a comfortable height for you. However, if you can't anchor the pad to the dresser, this may not be the best option, for safety's sake.
Another money- and space-saving alternative is to buy an indoor play yard that includes a removable changer.
If you have the cash and the space, you have your choice of well-designed, practical, and attractive changing tables. And as your baby grows — many parents use changing tables well into their child's second year — such a table can offer more security for your baby. Many are equipped with railings and straps to hold their wriggling occupants in place.
What to look for when buying
If you want to buy a new changing table, you have two options: a separate changing table or a combination dresser and changing table.
As appealing as a combination piece of furniture may seem, we recommend the first style. The reason? A standard dresser with a top that flips open to reveal a padded changing area sounds great in theory. But it may not be as stable as it should be, according to Consumer Reports Guide to Baby Products, which says the flip-open tops can cause the entire chest to topple when you place a baby's weight on the outer edge. In light of this design flaw, you may want to avoid this type of changing table, or look for one with an exposed changing area (minus the flip-open top).
Plus, as your child gets older, she'll need a dresser, not a changing table, so it may be better to buy a separate dresser that will last throughout childhood and beyond.
When purchasing a changing table, look for the following features:
• A guardrail: The higher the protective guardrail around the table, the better. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a railing that's at least 2 inches (5centimeters) high on all sides. But even with the highest possible guardrail in place, you should always keep one hand on your baby while she's on the table. One quick body contortion and she could be airborne.
• Safety straps: You can install your own safety straps, but why bother when plenty of models provide them? You'll absolutely need these to help secure your baby.
• Sturdiness: This is essential. Look for sturdy, stable legs. Shake the table with your hands, and if it feels rickety, move on to the next model.
• Storage: Make sure it has a place to store diapers, wipes, and creams. In general, you'll find that open shelves running the length of the unit are more convenient than small, high-sided baskets. The storage areas should be out of reach of a crawling, standing, or walking baby. At the same time, you shouldn't have to bend or take your eyes off your baby to access these items.
Important safety note
A BabyCenter reader writes, "My daughter fractured her skull falling off her changing table onto our hardwood floors. I was getting her PJs on after a bath. I turned to grab something and heard a thump. She had fallen 4 feet in a split second. Don't let the same thing happen to you!"
Never leave your baby unattended on a changing table, even for a moment. And although a strap is a great aid, it's not a substitute for your hands-on supervision. Always keep at least one hand on your baby when she's on the changing table.
What it's going to cost you
Most changing tables cost between $100 and $215. Combination dresser and changing tables can cost anywhere from $200 for a small, unfinished pine dresser to $400 or more for a high-quality, finished unit.
Source: www.babycenter.com
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)