When To Stop Using Changing Table
As your child grows, you may find yourself wondering when to stop using a changing table. And you wouldn’t be alone!
Changing tables are an essential piece of equipment for any parent or caregiver with a young baby.
They provide a safe and stable surface for diaper changes, allowing parents to easily reach items such as wipes and diapers without having to bend down too far. Many parents also extend their use beyond this to applying lotion, dressing your baby, and more – so losing its functionality can be tough for some.
However, as children grow bigger, the safety of their changing table becomes questionable.
Many parents worry that their children are too big for the changing table and thus could be at risk of injury.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that there is no single answer as to when you should stop using a changing table. Every child develops differently, meaning that some may be ready sooner than others. That being said, paying attention to your baby’s signs of readiness can help you determine when it’s time for them to graduate from their changing table.
So, in this article, we’ll discuss how you can tell if your baby has outgrown their changing table – and what steps you should take next!
What Is A Changing Table?
A changing table is a piece of furniture used to change diapers, clothes, and otherwise attend to an infant. It is typically outfitted with shelves, drawers and hooks for storing diapers, wipes and other items necessary for diaper changes. The changing table provides a comfortable space for parents or caregivers to attend to the needs of their baby.
The changing table provides several benefits for both parent and baby. This include:
- Keeping your baby safe during diaper changes by providing a flat surface that prevents them from rolling off
- Keeping diaper caddy essentials close at hand
- Reducing the strain on your back as you don’t need to lift them off a lower surface like the floor or bed
- Saving time by making diaper changes easier and faster
Why You Should Stop Using A Changing Table?
There are a few reasons why you may what to stop using a changing table, which mostly center around safety. These include:
- Your changing table has been recalled by the manufacturer.
- Your baby won’t stay still on the changing table compromising their safety.
- Your baby has outgrown the weight limit of the changing table.
- Using a changing table is too physically taxing.
- You’ve made the switch to pull ups which are easily to put on whilst standing.
- You no longer have the space for a changing table.
So, whilst it may be more convenient for parents to change their babies on a changing table, at a certain point you will need to transition to the floor, bed, or another alternative.
When To Stop Using A Changing Table?
The best gauge for when your baby has outgrown their changing table is when your baby reaches the age or weight limit recommended by the manufacturer, which is typically age 2, or 30 pounds.
Most children are ready to move away from the changing table around 18 months old, or when they can climb out of it on their own. Even if your child isn’t climbing out yet, you may want to start transitioning them away from the changing table as soon as 12 months old. This will help them become more independent and make for a smoother transition when it’s time to switch over completely.
Another factor to consider is whether or not you have another suitable space for diaper changes in your home. If you don’t have a safe place for diaper changes, such as a bed or floor, then it might be best to keep the changing table until you find an alternate solution that works for you and your family.
It’s also important to take into account both your baby’s age and development as well as any other solutions available in order to decide when it’s time to stop using the changing table. Making this decision at the right time will help ensure your baby stays safe while also helping them gain independence and confidence in themselves.
Alternatives To A Changing Table
There are several alternatives to a traditional changing table that parents and caregivers can use to change babies:
Floor
A simple and cost-effective alternative is to change a baby on the floor. This allows the parent or caregiver to be at the same level as the baby, which can facilitate bonding and communication.
Dresser or Table
A dresser or table can be used to change a baby. This can be more convenient for parents who have limited space and need to make use of furniture they already have.
Bed
If you’re looking for an easy place to change your baby without having to bend down to floor level, then a bed is a great option!
Waterproof Changing Pad
A portable changing pad can be used on any flat surface, such as a bed or the floor. This allows parents to change their baby wherever they are most comfortable.
Ultimately, the choice of an alternative to a changing table will depend on your individual needs and preferences, and the safety of the baby should always be the top priority.
If you are looking for a changing table alternative, then I recommend that you also invest in a portable diaper caddy that can be used to store all baby essentials, such as diapers, wipes, and portable changing pad, and can be used to change a baby wherever you are. Here is our review on the best diaper caddies!
FAQs On Using A Changing Table
The length of time that a changing table is used for can vary depending on the individual needs and preferences of the parent or caregiver. However, you must stop using your changing table when your child reaches the weight limit recommended by the manufacturer, which is typically age 2, or 30 pounds.
The answer is yes, changing tables are safe for newborns when used correctly and according to safety guidelines. To start with, make sure that all straps and locks are securely fastened before placing your baby on the table. Then, never leave your child unattended; always stay close by in case they need help or comfort. Lastly, remember that babies grow quickly – once your child is able to roll over or sit up on their own, it might be time to think about transitioning away from using the changing table altogether.
It is generally not recommended to change toddlers on a changing table as they are typically too big and mobile to be safely and comfortably changed on such a small surface. Toddlers are more likely to want to move around and explore, which can be difficult and potentially dangerous on a changing table.
Instead, it is generally recommended to change toddlers on a flat surface such as a bed or the floor. This allows the toddler to move around more easily and can provide more interaction and bonding opportunities between the parent or caregiver and the toddler.
When picking out a changing table, here are four key features to consider:
1) Stability: Make sure the product is stable and sturdy – look for a wide base that won’t tip over easily.
2) Locking Mechanism: Check for a secure locking mechanism so your baby can’t accidentally open the table or fall off.
3) Height: Look for one with adjustable heights so you don’t have to bend down too much when changing diapers.
4) Safety Straps: Choose one with safety straps or sides to keep your baby secure while they’re up on the table.
It’s important to remember that while these features are helpful, they should never replace adult supervision when using a changing table. Always keep an eye on your child while they’re up on the table and stop using it once they reach the manufacturers weight limit or it is no longer safe for them to use.
Final Thoughts on How Long Do You Use A Changing Table
The lowdown is that, unfortunately, the freestanding changing tables we described won’t make it all the way to the potty training stage.
At some point your baby will become too mobile and either exceed your changing table’s weight limit or their wriggling will lead to safety issues generally.
It’s generally suggested that once your baby reaches the 30 pound stage, or can hold their own weight and sit up, it can be wise to move to either a changing mat you can move around, or to just go old school with towels and a larger surface like your floor or bed.
And if you’re looking for more great diapering guides, then check out these guides on diapers vs pullups, when to switch to pull ups?, Pampers Easy Ups vs Huggies Pull Ups, and best cribs with changing station.
