How to Make a Baby Changing Station

With the arrival of your new infant, you'll want to have a safe place to change diapers and outfits. Assembling all the materials close at hand will make for easier and safer diaper changes. Positioning the crib in an easy to access room will also make it more functional. Here are the necessary items for a baby's changing table and how to put them together.

Instructions

Select a Changing Table Location

1

Place the changing table in a high-traffic area where you are often with the baby. For most this is in the baby's nursery room near the sleeping crib or bassinet. For others this may be in the living room area or parents' bedroom.

2

Position the changing table for easy access. Be sure you are not blocking doorways, dresser drawers or walkways.

3

Stabilize the changing table so it won't roll, shake or wobble. If the changing platform came with wheels, you may want to remove them and place the table in a permanent location.

4

Place the trash receptacle on the floor at the foot of the changing table or underneath the changing platform, if there is room. This keeps the dirty diapers out of sight but allows you to reach it easily when standing at the changing table.

Assembly

5

Place the changing table pad on the top of the table platform and be sure it is secure. It is recommended to use a slightly padded pillow to prevent the baby from rolling over while changing. Strap or velcro the pad securely to the table.

6

Fill the wicker or bamboo basket with a few of the main necessities; diapers, wipes, cream, pins or fasteners for cloth diapers (if needed). It is helpful if this basket includes an extra set of clothing in case of accidents, so add a "onesy" or sleeper outfit and a pair of socks.

7

Find a place to put this basket where it is close at hand but cannot be knocked over by the baby. Often the head of the changing table has enough room or there is a shelf just under the platform for storage.