Baby Registry Series: Diaper Changes & Container Safety

Baby’s diaper can be changed on top of a towel or a changing pad on the floor, but a raised surface is helpful. Babies don’t need anything fancy, but there are a few things to keep in mind to prepare your home for safe diaper changes.

• Anchor the changing pad and furniture. Attach a changing pad to a low, wide dresser or changing table and, if using a dresser, install/connect a framed changing topper with a 2-inch guardrail along four sides. Attach the changing table/dresser to the wall with anchors to prevent it from tipping. Add furniture anchors to your registry list!
• You’ll always want to have one hand on baby when they’re on the changing table/dresser, so consider where you’ll want to store clean diapers, wipes, clothes, and other diaper changing needs like creams. You’ll also want a trash bin or diaper pail and hamper for dirty diapers, wipes, and clothes nearby, so you get rid of dirty items while keeping one hand on baby.
• Out of reach. Keep dangerous items like a pump of hand sanitizer, and cream with screw off caps (choking hazards) out of reach of baby. If baby needs a distraction, choose a safe toy or lightweight mirror/image secured to the wall next to the changing area. Items and décor placement will need to be reassessed as baby grows and develops.

There is no shortage of products to put baby in - swing, bouncer, rocker, activity center, the list goes on. These products, found on most baby registries, may be fun but should always be used under supervision and never while baby is sleeping. 

• Encourage tummy time. Babies should have supervised tummy time every day. Tummy time can be done with a newborn laying on your chest, then as they get older, put them on a blanket or playmat on the floor. If baby falls asleep during tummy time, move them to their safe sleep space.
• Put baby in a safe place when you need to step away. It’s nice to have a safe place to put baby when you need to use the restroom or get things done around the house. A crib or play yard are great for that.
• Follow manufacturer’s guidelines. If you want to get something to put baby in, make sure you’re following weight and length guidelines, supervising them while the product is in use, and not allowing baby to sleep in anything other than a crib, bassinet, play yard or portable crib. Swings, bouncers, and rockers are not safe places for baby to sleep.

Remember, newborns don’t care if their house is picture perfect. They just need a safe place to sleep, a full tummy, and a clean diaper. Your baby’s frequent well child visits are a great time to talk to your pediatrician about safety concerns.