A changing station is simply an area that is equipped to make diapering easy and convenient. While a changing table will be ideal, it isn’t always essential. New moms and dads can easily do without a special baby changing table and instead, create a on-the-go diaper or baby station for hassle-free nappy changes. Here are some tips on setting up the perfect changing station for your baby.
Choosing an Area for the Changing Station
The first step is to find an area where changing baby can be easy and safe. While I found the floor the easiest when I was changing my baby, some parents may find the bending and kneeling a tad painful. The bed is a good option since you can sit down and change the diaper. Alternatively, if you prefer standing, you can turn an old desk or the top of a dresser that is at a convenient height into a diaper station.
Supplies to Make Diapering Easy
You’ll need a few diapering essentials in order to make nappy changes quick and easy. Get a large basket or caddy and keep it handy. If you have a fixed changing station, such as a dresser, keep the basket close by. Else, keep it in baby’s room or closet ready and stocked. Here are the items that you may want to include:
- A waterproof changing mat or two.
- A stash of clean diapers. Whether you’re using cloth or disposables, keep at least 5-7 in the basket, so that you’ll know when you’re going to run out of diapers and buy a new pack or have time to run a load of laundry.
- A supply of baby wipes, cotton balls and washcloths.
- A thermos or flask filled with warm water for the washcloths or cotton balls.
- Diaper covers, if you’re using cloth diapers. With all-in-one cloth diapers, however, you can do without a cover.
- Diaper rash cream. Check out our review of Bumboosa’s Diaper Rash Cream.
Also, keep a diaper pail next to the baby station, so that you can toss the dirty diapers into the pail right away.
Things to Keep in Mind When Using a Diaper Station
While changing diapers, it is important to keep baby safe and clean. So, do keep the following in mind when setting up a changing station for your little one:
- Always ensure that the area designated for changing diapers is safe, sturdy and clean for baby.
- Place everything you need close at hand before you open baby’s nappy or even, put him down on the changing mat.
- Store diapering supplies in a locked storage area or on a high shelf once baby starts crawling around.
- Keep a few toys handy to distract baby during changes.
A well-organized and handy changing station can make diapering simple and trouble-free for new moms and dads. For more on getting organized for baby, read Baby Hospital Bag and How to Save Money When Buying Baby Products.
Photo Credit: Brian