Do I Really Need a Changing Table? Advice From Real Mums on Baby Essentials

Do I Really Need a Changing Table? Advice from Real Mums

The idea of preparing for a new baby is a mix of excitement and, often, a bit of anxiety. Expecting parents, especially first-timers, are bombarded with a million things to buy. One of the most debated items on the baby registry is the changing table. With so many baby products available, it’s easy to wonder: do I really need a changing table? Is it worth the money, or can I make do with something simpler?

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the pros and cons of having a changing table, offering advice from real mums who’ve been through the experience. Plus, we’ll talk about how a changing table can fit into your antenatal care plan and help you prepare for those first few months with your little one. Whether you’re planning your antenatal appointments or simply trying to save a bit of money, we’ll cover all the angles.

Before jumping into whether you really need one, let’s first define what a changing table is. A changing table is a designated space where you change your baby’s nappies, usually equipped with raised sides for safety, storage space underneath for baby supplies, and often a soft pad on top for comfort. It can be a standalone unit or built into a dresser or cabinet.

Some changing tables even double as storage for baby clothes, wipes, nappies, and other essentials. The idea is to keep everything you need close at hand, while keeping your baby safe and comfortable during those frequent nappy changes.

Why Some Parents Love Changing Tables

1. Convenience and Organisation

Many parents swear by their changing tables for the sheer convenience of having everything in one place. When you’re exhausted from sleepless nights and trying to adjust to the demands of a newborn, a changing table offers an organised and functional space. Having a changing station with all the supplies within arm’s reach can make nappy changes feel smoother and less stressful.

For parents who appreciate a tidy space, a changing table can also help keep everything in one place. With compartments for wipes, nappies, creams, and clothes, you don’t have to worry about hunting around the room for supplies during a change.

2. Space for Bonding

Changing your baby can be a bonding moment, especially when you’re able to look into their eyes and talk to them while you change their nappy. A changing table can make these moments easier by providing a safe, stable place for your baby while you go about the process.

The raised sides also provide added security, ensuring your baby is less likely to roll off the surface. This can be especially reassuring for new parents who are just getting the hang of handling their newborn.

3. Back Support

Changing a baby on the floor or on a low surface can cause strain on your back. Having a changing table allows you to change your baby at waist height, providing the necessary back support and reducing the risk of back strain. This can be especially helpful during the early months of your baby’s life when nappy changes are frequent.

Why Some Parents Opt Out of Changing Tables

1. They Take Up Space

One of the biggest drawbacks of a changing table is the space it takes up. If you live in a smaller flat or have limited space, a dedicated changing table might not be a practical option. Instead, some parents choose to change their baby on a bed or a changing mat that they can roll up and store away.

Additionally, a changing table is an item that’s not likely to be used for long. Once your baby starts crawling and walking, you’ll likely transition to using a regular changing mat on a floor or a bed, which can leave you with an unused piece of furniture.

2. They Can Be Expensive

As any parent knows, babies come with an array of expenses. While a changing table might be useful, it can also be an added expense that you might not need. Some parents find that a few simple accessories like a changing mat, a comfortable surface like a sofa or bed, and storage baskets for baby supplies are all they really need.

3. They’re Not Always Portable

If you’re someone who likes to move around or needs to change nappies in different rooms, a fixed changing table can feel limiting. Instead, some parents prefer a portable changing mat that can be used anywhere in the house and even packed for travel or day trips. These mats are easy to wipe down and can be stored away when not in use.

The Antenatal Perspective: Preparing Your Home for Baby

As you prepare for the arrival of your baby, you’ll likely attend several antenatal appointments where you’ll learn about the basics of caring for your newborn. This is a great time to ask your midwife or antenatal specialist for advice on the essentials you really need at home.

Creating a home environment that’s comfortable and safe for your baby is part of your antenatal care plan. While a changing table might seem like a necessity, it’s essential to remember that the primary goal is to create a space that works for both you and your baby. What might work for one family might not be necessary for another, and that’s okay.

Antenatal Education and Advice on Baby Gear

Your antenatal classes are a great resource for learning about the practical side of parenthood. During these classes, you’ll likely discuss things like pregnancy care and antenatal support, as well as what gear and items are helpful once your baby arrives.

Real-life advice from other parents, either through classes or community groups, can also provide insight into what’s worked for others. Many parents suggest skipping the changing table and opting for a simpler changing mat or dresser that serves multiple purposes. Alternatively, you may find that the convenience of a changing table outweighs the downsides if you have the space and budget for it.

Space-Saving Alternatives for Nappy Changes

If you decide that a changing table isn’t for you, there are several alternatives that work just as well, if not better, for some families:

1. Changing Mat

A changing mat is a much more compact solution, and it’s easy to set up in any room. You can use it on the floor, on your bed, or on a sofa. A portable changing mat is perfect for those who want the option to change their baby in different areas of the house, or even when out and about.

You can find comfortable, washable mats in various sizes, some even with raised edges for extra safety.

2. Dresser with Changing Topper

If you’re looking for a space-saving solution that still provides storage, a dresser with a changing topper might be an ideal option. This allows you to have a practical storage unit for baby clothes and essentials, while also creating a raised, safe space for nappy changes. This option is popular among parents who want functionality without cluttering the room with extra furniture.

3. Co-Sleeping or Bassinet Changing

Some parents prefer to change their babies on a co-sleeping unit or bassinet. This may be a convenient solution, especially during the early days when your baby is still in your room. Many bassinets feature changing pads attached, making it easy to change your baby in the same area where they sleep.

4. Portable Changing Station

If you’re travelling or spending time outside the house, a portable changing station can be a lifesaver. Many travel cots or changing bags come with a detachable changing mat and compartments to store wipes and nappies. This can be a great option for parents who are on the go and want to minimise the number of baby-related items they need to carry.

The Verdict: Is a Changing Table Necessary?

At the end of the day, the decision to invest in a changing table really comes down to your lifestyle, available space, and personal preferences. While a changing table can certainly make nappy changes more convenient, it’s by no means essential. Many parents find that a changing mat or dresser with a changing topper offers more flexibility and value.

Regardless of what you choose, what’s most important is ensuring you have a comfortable, safe space for both you and your baby. Consider your antenatal care needs, think about your space, and evaluate your budget to find the best option that works for your family. The key is to make your home a place of ease and support during the exciting, yet often overwhelming, early days of parenthood.