Buying furniture for a children's room requires a rational approach. A changing table is one of the first items you should purchase. It greatly simplifies caring for your baby and serves as a storage area for children's clothing and hygiene items.
When arranging a newborn's room, parents should take care not only of his, but also of their own comfort. Even if the mother does not plan to use diapers, as our grandmothers did, a changing table will be useful. Parents will not have to constantly bend over the bed to care for the baby. Having placed the child on the table, the mother can easily change his diaper, change his clothes and carry out hygiene procedures.
Do you need a changing table?
To make it convenient for you to swaddle your baby, carefully monitor every fold of the baby, there is a changing table. Of course, all these procedures can be done on any other horizontal surface, but believe me, it is very inconvenient. It will cost you more if you save on this piece of furniture.
Do you really need a changing table? Of course, this issue is purely individual and each family solves it in its own way. Let's talk about the benefits that you will have when purchasing this table.
It is worth remembering that in the first year of a baby’s life, a huge burden of caring for him falls on fragile women’s shoulders. And the mother spends a lot of time changing the child’s clothes, treating all his wrinkles, and giving him a massage. Believe me, not everyone can stand in a bent position for half a day. And the height of the changing table provides for all this, and the young mother will be much less tired.
Primary requirements
The dimensions of the chest of drawers with a changing table must fully correspond to the children's room. The child needs a chest of drawers that meets the norms and rules of hygiene. Many parents will agree that it is better to opt for completely safe products.
Additionally, you should pay attention to a number of other important nuances:
There should be no sharp corners or glass on the table.- The material must also meet all safety requirements.
- It will be necessary to remove a large amount of dirt from the furniture, so this process should not cause difficulties for the housewife.
- Only removable covers and other accessories may be used. In the future they will have to be washed quite often.
- How to assemble a chest of drawers with a changing table should be clearly indicated in the instructions. You should not buy complex designs.
- Elements in the upper part are not needed, as they will interfere during operation.
- You should decide in advance on the optimal size. The table will be used for a specific purpose. Too narrow chests of drawers are inconvenient, since the mother will not be able to be completely sure that the child is safe.
- The height of the furniture is selected depending on the woman’s height.
- It is important to choose the right color scheme; you should not choose too bright shades.
Important!
Immediately after birth, the child cannot yet distinguish between individual interior items, so parents must do everything to create comfortable conditions for him.
Mommy needs to think in advance about what to put on the changing chest, what things besides the baby should fit on it. Its modification will directly depend on this. It is best to choose multifunctional furniture that is visually attractive and durable.
Key factors for choosing a changing chest:
- material;
- external characteristics;
- color scheme;
- price;
- strength and, as a result, durability.
It is not always possible to purchase a product that would combine all the key requirements of parents, then it is quite possible to make the desired model with your own hands.
To do this, you can find a huge number of relevant instructions on the Internet.
You can additionally apply thematic designs to the chests of drawers.
A large number of child's things can fit on shelves or in drawers.
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In the future they will be used in the process of caring for him. Whether a chest of drawers with the possibility of further transformation or a simple changing table is suitable is for parents to decide.
Advantages of a changing table from a changing mat
Changing tables are equipped with additional shelves, drawers and various pockets. This will save space in the room. By purchasing such a table, you have a place where you can put diapers, baby clothes and hygiene products.
Changing tables ensure the safety of the child. All tables of this type have fixed mattresses, thanks to which the child will not hit himself when he actively moves and swings his legs.
Also, such tables have sides, with their help the baby will not fall. Some models even have seat belts. If you wish, you can purchase a changing table on wheels. Then you can easily move it to a place convenient for you.
You can find a lot more positive aspects of this purchase, from which it is clear that the changing table is a necessary thing.
What can be replaced
If for some reason it is impossible to purchase a changing table, then it can be replaced. The main thing is that the surface where the newborn will be swaddled is smooth, spacious enough and clean. A bed, sofa, dining or desk table, as well as a dresser lid are suitable for this. To do this, cover them with a clean diaper, and if the surface is hard, then you will need to put a blanket on them. However, due to the lack of sides, the risk that the baby will fall will be higher. When a sofa or bed is used, the mother will be uncomfortable due to the fact that she will need to bend over or carry out all the manipulations on her knees.
Although the changing table can be replaced, it is still the best furniture for safe and comfortable baby care. And thanks to the large selection of models presented in stores, you can easily choose the one that is suitable even for a small apartment.
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Types of changing tables.
So, you have decided to purchase a changing table. Now let's see what they are and choose the most suitable one.
Changing board
Alternatively, you may want to consider a wooden changing board. It is equipped with a latex coating and sides. Unfortunately, it does not have departments for the necessary accessories. But if this does not put you off, you can use such a board by placing it on a horizontal surface and securing a mattress on it.
Changing board on legs
There is also a similar example - this is a changing board on folding metal legs. If your room does not allow you to install a full-fledged changing table, then this option is quite suitable for you. It folds easily and does not take up much space.
Changing table-shelf
A more serious version is a changing table-shelf. It provides a wide variety of storage spaces. Where you can put all your baby clothes and care products. This table has wheels with locks, so it can be easily moved to the right place.
Changing table with bath.
This table has a bathtub, which is very convenient as it is located at a suitable height. You can store hygiene items in it. This table also folds easily, and you can remove it if necessary.
Chest of drawers with sides.
This is a special chest of drawers, which is equipped with sides and fastenings for the mattress. If necessary, you can use it as a changing table, and when the child grows up, simply as a place to store things.
Baby cot with changing table
Baby cot with changing table and storage drawers. Of course, it is a little bulky, but it is very convenient, as it contains everything you need at once.
Changing table-transformer.
This is a changing table with a bedside table. When the baby grows up, you will be able to use this cabinet for its intended purpose, only for this you will need some parts.
Changing mat
There is also a changing mat. You can use it as an additional changing place. There is a border along the edges that protects the baby from falling. This mattress is very convenient to use, for example, in the bathroom or on the road. Lightweight, practical and does not take up much space.
Necessity of a table
A changing table is a convenient thing that allows a mother to care for her baby without putting unnecessary strain on the lumbar region without having to be in a bent position for a long time. Back pain after pregnancy is common, and incorrect positioning while swaddling, changing clothes or massaging the baby only aggravates the situation.
The table is very convenient for the following actions:
- changing diapers;
- applying powder, diaper cream;
- lubricating the baby's skin with moisturizer;
- changing the baby's clothes;
- cleaning the nose, ears;
- performing gymnastics, massage.
The use of a changing table is correct from the point of view of safety and hygiene. All materials from which this accessory is made are completely safe for babies and meet sanitary standards, do not cause allergies and are easy to clean. Also, the table is not used by anyone except the child, which ensures maximum cleanliness. And the presence of sides greatly reduces the risk of it falling.
Despite the presence of sides, leaving the baby unattended on the table is unacceptable. Even if it doesn't tip over yet, there is still the possibility of falling off it, and given the height, this poses a serious danger.
Most models have additional drawers for storing children's things, which saves space. When the child grows up and no longer needs the table for its intended purpose, it can be conveniently used for some time as a place for ironing clothes.
What to look for when buying a changing table
So, you've decided which table suits you best, and you're about to go shopping. So let's talk about what you need to pay attention to when choosing a table, because it should not only be comfortable, but also safe.
The height of the changing table should correspond to the height of the mother. Check how stable your chosen table is. The safety of the child depends on this.
There should be no shelves above the surface of the table, including hanging ones. They can threaten the baby's health. If the table has a hinged lid, check how it is secured.
Pay attention to the boxes. They should slide out easily and silently, and also have limiters. Storage places. See if the suggested storage locations suit you. Imagine what and where you will put it.
The material from which the changing table is made. It is better if it is wood, and the mattress should be covered with water-repellent material. The wheels must be equipped with brakes to ensure that the table stays firmly in place. And pay attention to how the mattress is attached. Fastenings must be strong and reliable.
Material selection
When making a changing chest for newborns, only natural material should be used, environmentally friendly, lightweight and easy to use. Some daddies prefer not to buy furniture, but to assemble it with their own hands. In this case, you can not only select the material, but also choose the width and other design parameters. The result will be the optimal product option.
To determine which changing chest is better, we will conduct a detailed analysis of the main properties of the materials from which it is created.
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Wood has all the necessary properties and qualities that an infant needs in the first months of life.
The material is environmentally friendly, safe and highly reliable. The tree meets all hygiene requirements. Various means can be used to paint the product.
Today, the ivory shade is very popular. Wooden elements can additionally absorb sound. However, the surface may suffer from excessive moisture accumulation or exposure to high temperatures. After deformation, further operation is considered impossible.
Chipboard has an affordable price, so it is often chosen. The material consists of special plates, which are obtained by pressing wood shavings.
A special technology is used for its production. High quality is guaranteed by pre-treatment at high temperatures.
The result is high-strength furniture that will not be damaged even when exposed to moisture.
If you need a large chest of drawers and an impressive weight, then it is advisable to opt for metal. The furniture will be highly durable and stable. It will not be damaged by exposure to large amounts of moisture. However, during operation it will have to be periodically applied with a special anti-corrosion coating.
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Metal is considered dangerous for children, because they can get hurt on sharp corners. For coloring it is allowed to use any shade at the discretion of the parents. Psychologists advise choosing pastel colors.
Parents will be able to choose the width of the changing table that will fully meet their requirements. The most popular option is 70 cm. This model contains from six drawers or special compartments. During operation, the material should not be placed near heating devices. The plastic heats up quickly and begins to release tiny substances harmful to the body into the air.
Note!
Formaldehyde negatively affects the baby's health and can lead to serious consequences.
So, we can conclude that it is better to use chipboard if parents decide to make a chest of drawers with their own hands. If you decide to buy a ready-made version, you should first make sure that the material does not contain formaldehyde. Otherwise, the furniture cannot be in the newborn baby's room.
Recommendations from experts on choosing a changing table
The main requirement for all children's things is safety. Only high-quality products guarantee this.
What you need to pay attention to when choosing a changing table for your baby:
- Material.
Products made from wood or MDF will not harm the baby’s health. A practical changing surface requires fabric with a water-repellent effect.
It is advisable to abandon models made from chipboard; some manufacturers still use toxic substances. If you still purchase a product made from chipboard, you should inquire about the quality certificate. The same requirement applies to plastic samples.
- Design.
Children's furniture should a priori be reliable and stable. The best manufacturers equip their models with rubber “shoes” to prevent changing tables from slipping. Products with wheels must be equipped with brake linings.
The sides must be at least 5 cm high to prevent the baby from falling.
- Size.
The length of the changing surface for a baby must be at least 70 cm. Such a table must have a width of at least 60 cm. The area of the changing area should not be restrictive for the child. Since the baby spends 1/3 of the daytime on the changing table, the baby should feel comfortable on it. The length of the changing space for children over six months should be 100 cm.
- Height.
The diaper is designed for both the convenience of the baby and his mother. The optimal table height is 95-105 cm.
- Functionality.
The best choice is a product with shelves for storing things. It is convenient and profitable: this model will be useful even when the child has passed toddler age.
- Design.
Simplicity is the key to purity. The baby does not need elaborate reliefs, which, moreover, are difficult to wash. Practical products - no cut-out elements. The color is chosen taking into account “children’s preferences” - neutral, without “combat” shades that tire the eyes. White, wood, pastel colors are welcome. For girls, they usually choose ivory-colored furniture, for boys - wenge.
Thus, the criteria for choosing a changing table are based on:
- The quality of the material is safe, hygienic;
- Ease of use;
- Appearance of the model;
- Operational period of the product;
- Price.
Standard sizes
On the changing surface, the baby can be positioned with its legs or side facing the mother. Models with a longitudinal table are narrower and more compact, but dressing the baby in this position is difficult. If you choose a chest of drawers with this arrangement, in addition to access to the front with drawers, you will have to provide free access to it from the side, which is not always convenient.
Manufacturers claim that standard changing chests are suitable for children under one year of age. The size of the space for performing hygiene procedures can be from 70 to 100 cm. A length of 70 cm is suitable for a six-month-old baby, but for an older child more space is needed. If possible, you should immediately choose a model with a surface length of 90–100 cm. The width of the board should not be less than 44 cm, the standard height of the fence sides is from 15.5 cm. The number of drawers ranges from 1 to 5.
Wide chests of drawers with a changing table, on which the baby is placed with his feet facing his mother, are much more convenient to use, but they take up more space. True, here you don’t have to worry about a free approach from the side. A compromise between these models is a narrow chest of drawers with a folding or overhead table, which protrudes slightly beyond the dimensions of the furniture. In this case, the dressing area allows you to place the baby with his legs facing his mother.
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Folding surface parameters: 66–77 cm wide and 70–96 cm long. The changing area in transformable furniture is 61–66 cm. The standard height of children's chests of drawers is about one meter (95–105 cm). The height of the furniture should be selected based on the height of the mother: it should be comfortable for the woman to lay the baby down and care for him without straining her back.
In the most stable chest of drawers, the height from the floor and the depth are approximately the same.
How to choose a table for a newborn
Choosing a table for a baby is not an easy task. Let's look at the main points that you need to pay attention to when you come to a children's store:
- The diaper must be strong. Do not give preference to fragile, unreliable models made of cheap, low-quality plastic, because it can even be toxic. Yes, this way you will save your budget, but you risk harming what is most precious to you - your child.
- Model stability. Whether it's a board or a full-fledged changing chest, it shouldn't wobble.
- The size of the changing table for newborns matters. Remember that the larger the surface for the process, the more convenient it is for parents and the safer it is for the baby. True, it all depends on your capabilities.
- The surface material of the diaper must be non-slip and the fabric with which it is covered must be waterproof.
- The table should be high enough so that mom does not have to bend over.
- It would be good to buy a table on wheels if we are talking about large models. Thus, it can be moved around the house without any effort.
Advantages of using combined furniture
Manufacturers have developed several types of furniture for children of different ages. The most mobile were transforming tables, as well as chests of drawers with a changing table.
Combined furniture has a number of advantages:
- Furniture parameters depend on a person’s height. Some models can change the height up to 10 cm by adjusting the legs.
- Equipped with drawers, organizers, shelves. Built-in metal laundry baskets and ironing boards are available.
- Safety bumpers protect against falls.
- Another unique feature is the removable lid. Upon reaching 1 year of age, the need for a table disappears. But you can continue to use the furniture. It is enough to remove the lid and you will get a full-fledged wardrobe.
- Hypoallergenic materials are used in production.
- Since the center of gravity is on the back wall, the table will not fall forward.
- Some changing tables have a lid extension feature.
- The streamlined shape of the furniture guarantees the safety of the baby during swaddling.
- Availability of a semi-rigid mattress. It is indispensable in cases where a child learns to hold his head up.
- Table mobility due to wheels instead of legs.
Precautions for use
Experienced mothers warn that when swaddling you should not forget about some important things:
- the table should not be shaky;
- if the diaper changer has wheels, make sure that they are securely locked;
- electric heated tables must be in a dry place and in good working order;
- The baby's blanket or mattress on the changing table cannot slide on the surface.
Dear parents, remember: it doesn’t matter what model of changing table you purchased or whether you purchased it at all. The main thing is to provide the baby with attention, safety and care.
Children Newborns
