To buy… or not to buy? - Part 2: The Change Table
Part 2: The Change Table
By: Amanda
Jephtha
Amanda and her son Lex
With so many products and choices to choose
from, it can be difficult to decide what you really do and don’t need
to buy. Amanda Jephtha from Planning
for Babe writes this objective series to help you decide - with confidence.
Change tables can morph into bookshelves, chest of
drawers or student desks. Some sit atop cots or dressers, whilst others
fold out from the wall. But do you actually need one?
Nappies are a constant during the first three years
of your baby’s life. With a minimum of 5700 nappy changes, a dedicated
area with the tools of the trade at
hand is a must, be it the floor, a bench or a change table. This saves
you time preparing for the change, and more importantly, means that
you don’t have to leave your baby unattended, even for a moment.
Most change tables have in-built storage. Shelves,
drawers or hanging pockets provide easy access to your essentials, and
you can restock them at a glimpse. Some are height adjustable, so you
won’t have the added strain on your back. Others form part of a set,
so you can co-ordinate your baby’s furniture.
But change tables take up space. What if your baby’s
room is small?
Folding change tables fold flat, so you can tuck
them away when not in use, and are easy to transport. They make a great
option as a second change table if you live in a multi-level home, or
if your baby will be spending time with another carer. They don’t
tend to be as sturdy as fixed change tables, with the flimsiest holding
up to 9kg, so your baby may outgrow it within 10 months.
New to the market are wall mounted change tables.
Similar in concept to shopping centre change tables (but much more stylish),
these tables screw in to the wall. Like a foldaway bed, the table pulls
down from the wall to change your baby, then pushes back up to sit flush
against the wall. They don’t take up any valuable floor space,
and your baby-turned-toddler won’t be able to climb it.
Another option is change table attachments. These
sit securely atop the width of the cot (and some bassinettes). They
take up much less room than a standing change table, but you need to
remove it before placing your baby in the cot. These tables don’t
have any in-built storage, so make sure the paraphernalia is easily
accessible.
But what will you do when your baby begins to roll,
wriggle and writhe? Will using a change table become too stressful -
or too dangerous?
Change tables with raised sides are an additional
safety measure against accidents. Some have in-built harnesses; they
make changing more awkward for you, but your baby is more secure. And
don’t underestimate the power of distraction! The key is to keep two
or three toys at hand so you can alternate between them (avoiding boredom),
winning yourself enough time to finish the change.
And then the change table will be outgrown. What
will you do then? Will it sit dormant, collecting dust - adding
even more clutter to the garage?
Many change tables convert into other furniture,
such as shelving, desks or toy storage. They tend to be more expensive,
but can be good value due to their longevity.
Remember, every baby (and parent) is different, and
will have their own hidden agenda. To buy… or not to buy? You be the
judge!
About The Author - Amanda Jephtha is the successful
owner of unique business Planning for Babe www.planningforbabe.com.au
- exclusive baby planners.
Amanda’s expertise and friendly approach makes buying for your baby a pleasurable (rather than an
overwhelming!) experience. Matching the perfect products to your individual lifestyle, Amanda makes
sure you buy the right products first time around.
Check out her blog for her tips and insights.
© 2008 Planning for Babe
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