Changing Table Safety and Sanitation

You'll be changing your baby's diaper approximately 10 to 15 times a day during the first year. The volume of activity will take place at your changing table, so make sure it's safe, clean, and ready for action. When it comes to your baby's care, nothing should be left to chance.

Germs are not for Sharing Keeping your baby's changing area clean is easy. When diaper mess occurs, the changing pad has a removable, washable slipcover. Vinyl changing pads can be wiped clean with soap and water or with a sanitized wipe. Have quick, clean-up supplies handy in your changing table: Include a box of wipes for baby's bottom and a can of sanitizing wipes to clean the changing table. A locking diaper pail should be nearby for diaper disposable.

Changing Table Safeguards

Never leave the baby alone on the changing table. Within the first few months, your baby will be able to roll, so not only must you keep your eyes on her, but also have one hand on her while at the changing table. In addition, your changing table should have a safety strap to secure Baby to the table.

Guardrails add another layer of baby security. According to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) safety standards, changing tables with a flat surface must have a barrier on all sides.

Protecting Curious Tots

A changing table's stocked storage shelves are inviting for roaming toddlers. Their quest to explore often involves pulling down whatever's in sight and with it comes the risk of the changing table tipping over. Keep the changing table tyke-safe by concealing tempting diaper supplies in a closed drawer or secured behind cupboards with child safety locks.

Safety Note: Attach any potentially unstable furniture to a wall with top-over straps or restraints.

Adhering to Safety Standards

Nursery furniture safety standards change frequently. Therefore, buying new diaper changing tables for the baby is recommended in place of hand-me-downs or secondhand purchases.