When a baby appears in your home, or you are just waiting for this happy moment, you need to provide everything for his comfort. A stroller, a crib, diapers, undershirts - all this is certainly very important, but you will also need a specially equipped place for changing the baby’s clothes and carrying out hygiene procedures.
The times when women swaddled babies on a bed or on a regular table are left behind. The modern furniture industry offers young parents a more convenient and safe option - changing chests.
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Baby changing chest - features and advantages
A changing chest for newborns is a multifunctional children's furniture with a changing area and storage systems in the form of drawers and shelves.
This piece of furniture is special, it was created specifically for children's interiors and optimal care for babies. They are compact, but convenient enough for:
- Swaddling a baby.
- Diaper changes.
- Changing clothes.
- Massage, gymnastics.
- Carrying out hygiene procedures.
Compared to conventional changing tables they have a number of advantages:
- The main thing is stability and reliability.
- Wide, large surface of the folding table.
- Environmentally friendly, safe for health.
In essence, the design looks like a regular chest of drawers, but is smaller in size. A changing board is attached to the top, limited by protective edges.
Later they can serve as regular furniture when the child grows up.
Caring for a newborn - the basics
So, the baby is already at home... A young mother should know how to properly care for a newborn - there are some features that are simply obligatory.
Bathing a newborn
Most likely, upon discharge from the maternity hospital, the mother will be allowed to fully bathe the baby.
But there are cases when such a simple procedure is contraindicated - for example, if the healing of the umbilical wound takes a longer time. If there are contraindications, you will have to make do with wiping the child with a damp sponge (it should be made of the softest possible material, you can use a cloth napkin for this). You need to bathe a newborn every day, but if the baby becomes too excited during the procedure, constantly cries and shows his dissatisfaction in every possible way, then you can get by with 2-3 water procedures per week.
The water for bathing and drying a newborn should be warm - it would be wise to use the “old-fashioned” method of measuring it: dip your elbow in the water and make sure that you feel pleasant to feel its warmth on your skin.
After performing water procedures, the newborn should be dried with a soft towel, thoroughly dry all folds, and lubricate them with baby oil.
Face, eyes, nose and nails
Even though the child is very small, he needs to wash his face every morning. This is done with warm water and a cotton pad. Be sure to touch your ears when washing your face - you cannot “go” inside the ear canal, but wiping the ears with a cotton pad soaked in warm water will be very smart.
You also need to take care of your eyes - they are wiped with a damp cotton pad in the direction from the outer corner of the eye to the inner. For each eye you need to take a separate cotton pad.
The newborn's nose needs to be cleaned regularly - dry crusts accumulate in it, which can lead to difficulty breathing for the child. To cleanse the nasal passages, you need to use cotton wool, which is well soaked in petroleum jelly (or baby oil). The flagellum is carefully inserted into the nasal passage, only shallowly! Then they begin to rotate it with a minimum amplitude, and the movements should be from the nose outward.
Please note: these procedures are often accompanied by the baby crying. And here only the attentiveness of the mother can help figure out why the newborn is crying - he is in pain or simply unpleasant. If crying is a normal whim, then simply do not pay attention to it, but talk softly and affectionately to the child, try to distract his attention with a toy or song.
A newborn's nails need to be trimmed as carefully as possible - it is easy to injure the baby's delicate skin. This is done with small scissors with rounded tips, the procedure should be carried out every 2-3 days. Please note that you cannot skip the procedure (even if the baby does not like it and constantly cries during the process) - a newborn’s nails grow quickly, the child can scratch himself with chaotic movements of his hands.
Please note: some experienced mothers cut their newborn's nails while he sleeps. Perhaps this is a way out of the situation, but doctors do not recommend carrying out the procedure in this way - the baby may jerk his arm or leg in his sleep, which will lead to injury.
Umbilical wound
If it is dry, then no special procedures need to be done - just soften the crusts (this is done with 2-3 drops of hydrogen peroxide) and remove them carefully with a cotton swab.
If the umbilical wound becomes wet and festers, then you cannot take any action on your own - you need to invite a pediatrician for consultation. It is usually recommended to wipe the umbilical wound with an alcohol wipe and lubricate it with brilliant green, but, we repeat, these appointments should be made by a specialist!
Washing a newborn
If the newborn is a girl, then you can wash her only in the direction from the belly to the back. This rule is dictated by the need to prevent various bacteria and microbes from entering the rectum to the external genitalia.
As for boys, there are no rules at all - the washing procedure is carried out in any order. The only clarification is that it is impossible to retract the foreskin of newborns.
Caring for a newborn is a process that will require attention and patience from the young mother. At first it will be quite difficult - the child is tiny, many mothers perceive him as a porcelain doll - it seems to them that with one careless movement they could break an arm/leg. In fact, there is nothing to worry about - during the first few days of being at home with the newborn, all care procedures will be “worked out” to the point of automaticity.
Tsygankova Yana Aleksandrovna, medical observer, therapist of the highest qualification category
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How does a changing table on a chest of drawers work - their types
The main difference between a chest of drawers for changing a baby and a regular chest of drawers is the top part. It is equipped in such a way that it can accommodate a baby. The table can be folding or overhead.
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- The design of the folding changing table is a tabletop with sides and a small shelf that acts as a folding element. It unfolds very simply, you just need to pull this shelf towards you. The result is a fairly wide and large table for procedures with a child. The table folds up just as easily, just lift it up.
- Designs with an overhead table are quite versatile and consist of a separate chest of drawers and a separate table, which is applied as needed. In the future, it can be used as a children's wardrobe, as the table is easy to clean.
Regardless of the type of structure, the tabletop must have sides; if there are none, or they are too low, then it is worth purchasing a soft mattress with this element. The height of the curbs is very important, as they are a safety measure for the child. They are needed to prevent the baby from rolling onto the floor, especially when he begins to roll over from his back to his tummy and spin around. The height of the side should be 5 centimeters on all sides.
The convenience of the design is largely determined by the size of the changing surface.
Its standard and optimal length and width are from 70 to 90 cm. There are also non-standard, narrow models with a width of 60 cm; they are suitable when the space of the room is as limited as possible, but changing the baby on them will be quite inconvenient.
Types of changing tables for newborns
Changing chest
A changing chest can make life easier, first of all, for the mother. After all, she will have everything at hand, and she will not need to run after every thing, risking leaving the child behind. Over time, when the top changing cover is no longer needed, it can be removed and the chest of drawers can continue to be used for storing things.
Changing board with metal frame or folding changing table
This model is suitable if you are limited by space. This table consists of a lid with sides that folds out and a shelf for accessories. It folds and unfolds easily and takes up very little space. It has the ability to be adjusted in height, which makes it possible to adjust the height of the table to suit the height of the mother.
The disadvantages include a small number or absence of shelves and shelves for storing things. For installation, you need a flat floor, otherwise the changing table, and with it the baby, will wobble. Again, it is assumed that such a table should not be very large in size, the bathtub is also small, which means you definitely won’t be able to use them for a long time.
This model is not folding, but stationary, on rigid legs, sometimes on wheels. Then underneath there is supposed to be more space for storing things and hygiene items. It is necessary to pay attention to the fact that the wheels have very reliable locks.
There are stationary and folding changing tables especially for the bathroom. Then they are made of moisture-resistant materials, and there are anti-slip attachments on the legs. There are tables whose legs are placed directly on the bathtub. If you are afraid of temperature changes and therefore do not know how to choose a changing table for a newborn that would be suitable for use after bathing, then you can check this option for yourself. Then you can do all the necessary hygiene procedures with your baby, dry him and dress him right in the bathroom.
The disadvantages of this type of changing table are its short use due to its small size. But even such a small design is often difficult to fit into our tiny bathrooms.
Hanging (folding) changing table
If there is very little space, but you want to have a place for changing, take a closer look at the hanging model. It is mounted on the wall and folded back if necessary.
Its disadvantage is that as soon as your baby grows up and gains weight, you will no longer be able to use such a table, because it can simply collapse to the floor.
Portable changing mat
But the smallest and most mobile version of a changing table is considered to be a portable mattress or changing mat. It is simply irreplaceable if you are going on a visit or have a trip to the clinic planned. It packs together and looks like a regular bag that you can carry on your shoulder.
Portable changing board
The portable changing board is attached to the crib and fits absolutely all models, both classic and playpen beds.
Transformable bed
This is one of the best combinations. A cabinet with a changing table is attached to the baby's crib, which, when not needed, simply becomes a place to store things. Your child can sleep in such a bed until he is 8-10 years old; the changing table is removed, but the shelves remain.
You should also pay attention to the playpen bed with changing table. Can be used as a sleeping place or play area. This model will last up to 3 years.
Construction and equipment of a chest of drawers with a changing table
When choosing a chest of drawers for changing, it is important to understand how it is designed, determine the size, material of the product, as well as the quality of the fittings and the design itself.
Frame
This design consists of four main elements:
- The upper horizontal surface, which is the changing table, or the base for its fastening.
- Lower horizon.
- Back wall.
- Two side walls.
The dimensions of the module can be quite different and you should choose a model taking into account the following parameters:
- The height should be such that it is convenient for the mother to perform the procedures.
- The width and length should be such that the baby not only fits on the table, but feels free on it, and do not forget that the width is also the capacity of the drawers.
If we talk about standard sizes, they are as follows:
- Height – from 90 to 110 centimeters.
- Width – from 50 centimeters.
- Length - from 60 to 90 centimeters.
The larger the chest of drawers and tabletop, the longer a child will be able to fit on it, and it will be possible to use it for its intended purpose.
Filling
The main storage system is drawers. Their number can be on average from 3 to 8. Large, roomy sections can be used to store clothes, diapers and nappies. Hygienic supplies are placed in smaller boxes: cotton pads, swabs, pipettes and medical solutions: peroxide, brilliant green, oils.
You can choose a model with shelves and open niches. It’s convenient to place baby cosmetics on the shelves, and put pacifiers, rattles, sanitary napkins and other little things in the niche that should be at hand and within easy reach.
There are even more functional designs with add-ons to accommodate more children's wardrobe and hygiene items.
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Accessories - types of mechanisms
The fittings must be of high quality. The drawers should slide out easily and the handles should not be sharp.
The guides of the retractable system are either roller or ball.
Roller systems are the more commonly used, standard systems. The principle of operation of such a system is to attach one roller to the side wall of the frame, and the second to the box itself. The system is not designed for heavy loads, and if the drawer is pulled out too much, it may fall out of the body. The option is not the most practical, but quite affordable.
Ball guides are more expensive and more practical. Their advantage is that the drawers move silently, they can withstand heavy loads and have a long service life. The box on ball guides will not fall out even when opened at maximum, and this is very important, especially when the baby grows up and begins to inspect.
The furniture shelves are closed with doors that open and close using a hinged system. This system is classic for swing facades. The door is attached on one side to the furniture body by hinge mechanisms, and its second side, when opened by the handle, describes an arc to the front of the body.
Base
The base of a chest of drawers for newborns can be: base, legs, wheels.
- The base is the most stable base, since it is a continuation of the frame. When choosing such a model, it is important to pay attention to the presence of a sawn bevel for the baseboard, otherwise the structure will not be able to be placed close to the wall.
- Models on wheels are characterized by mobility and, accordingly, additional convenience. The structure can always be easily moved to the right place; in addition, the cleaning process becomes easier. Models with wheels at the back and legs at the front are more stable and decoratively attractive. In any case, when choosing such a base, it is important to pay attention to the presence of a lock on wheels. Otherwise, the furniture may move at the most inopportune moment.
- The legs can be high or low, and also made of wood or metal. The stability of such models is quite good and cleaning will be easy. It is only important to check the quality of fastening of the legs to the frame; the rigidity and stability of the structure depends on this.
Types and structure of a changing table
A swaddling device is a device on which a mother can comfortably care for her baby. Some parents, during swaddling, prefer to make do with a crib, a table, a chest of drawers, and even a washing machine. You can put a towel or diaper on the surface, making sides on the sides.
For half a year, a newborn needs to change his diaper 6-10 times a day, massage and play. In this regard, parents may face a number of problems without a separate changing place. Let's look at some of them.
It will be very difficult for a young mother who has just given birth (and perhaps even through a CS) to bend over to the baby on the bed every time. Back pain plagues many pregnant women, especially in the later months of pregnancy. However, after giving birth, a woman understands that this is not the limit - the child requires a lot of attention and, at the same time, quickly gains weight.
When changing, you should have on hand: a diaper, napkins, body oil, diaper cream, powder, etc. Leaving a child on a surface without sides is dangerous even for a second - he can turn over and fall, so the child and the necessary things must be in one place. Furniture manufacturers have taken care of parents whose living space does not allow them to allocate a toilet corner for the baby. The following types may be offered to you.
- A portable changing pad (mattress, bedding). Its difference from a regular bedspread or towel is the rigidity of the sides. They will not allow the baby to fall if he decides to roll over, but the material is pleasant enough that it will protect the child from bruises. This is an economical option in terms of budget and space. The mattress can be installed on any surface that suits you best: table, chest of drawers, washing machine, bed, etc. Convenient on the road, at the dacha and when visiting.
- Changing board. It is slightly larger than a mattress, which allows you to use it longer, perhaps even up to a year. The material is wood or compressed sawdust, which significantly reduces its mobility, but at the same time, it is significantly stable and durable. The board can also be installed on any surface, even across a crib.
- Folding changing table. This design is attached to the wall and looks like a table on an airplane. This is a kind of tabletop in a box that folds out when necessary. If the dimensions of the apartment are small, this thing is an indispensable assistant for parents. Despite its compactness, the table has compartments for storing small items.
- Folding table with legs. This is the same changing board on metal legs. It has the ability to fold if necessary. Many baby diapers have a shelf for small items. Of the minuses, it is worth mentioning that the table will only stand stably on a flat surface.
As we see, a small space is not a hindrance for young parents; you can choose a changing station to suit any budget. And if you have a place in your home where it’s warm, draft-free and light enough, take a look at a changing chest. This is a rather cumbersome option, but at the same time, it is much more stable than all the previous ones. The advantages include: drawers for storing not only small items, hygiene items, but also clothes; The size of the tabletop is larger, which allows you to care for a baby up to a year old; can be used as a regular chest of drawers after being used for its intended purpose.
- Table with bath. The best place for it is the bathroom, if the size of the room itself allows. This is a convenient and practical design, which consists of a changing table and a bath underneath it. There are shelves for storing small items. After bathing, you can continue your care procedures without leaving the room.
- Built-in changing pad. This is part of a transformable crib that has a built-in chest of drawers on the side. Such a crib can be comfortable, everything is at hand, there is no need to leave for diapers or cream, or be distracted from the baby. In addition, such a chest of drawers does not take up much space.
We looked at the most common devices for changing a baby. The choice is large, all that remains is to determine the importance of the purchase, the amount you are willing to allocate and the location of the table. This purchase is not so much a luxury as it is a means of safety for the baby and convenience for the mother. Health to you and your kids!
Mattress for changing chest
A chest of drawers with a changing table for newborns is complemented by a soft pad on the tabletop - a mattress. It has high sides that will protect the child from falling. The mattress not only serves as a soft bedding for the baby, but also protects the countertop from dirt and moisture. At the same time, the lining itself is easy to clean and does not lose its shape or color.
Mattresses can be flexible or inflexible, with a hard or soft base.
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The material should not be slippery so that the mattress can be easily fixed on the tabletop.
Mattresses are made from standard natural materials. These must be high-quality, hypoallergenic fabrics. Quite often you can find waterproof models covered with a special diaper or medical oilcloth.
The simplest stuffing material is padding polyester, folded in several layers and stitched. More expensive models have orthopedic polyester fiber or elastic Skylon as a filler.
Cover the mattress on the changing chest with a cotton cover, which protects the mattress itself from contamination.
Additional equipment
Multifunctional models are equipped with a bathtub. This design allows you not only to change clothes or swaddle the baby, but also to bathe it.
By request, the next article will be on the topic - a cabinet with a sink for a 70 cm bath. We hope you like it.
It can be located in the place of the middle drawer. But most often, the bathtub with a drain is located under a folding changing pad, so the surface can be easily folded back during bathing.
Most of these models are equipped with special shelves for baby’s bath accessories.
Manufacturing materials
When choosing a changing chest, it is better to choose models made from environmentally friendly and easy-to-clean material.
Typically used for their manufacture:
- Natural wood. This option will be optimal. Wood is absolutely not dangerous to health; such structures are strong, durable and hygienic. The material is resistant to mechanical damage and, with good coverage, is quite resistant to moisture. The only disadvantage of the wooden module is its impressive weight and low cost.
- Plastic. Plastic chests of drawers are affordable, in addition, they are interesting in a wide range of colors. The material is not afraid of moisture, but it is better not to place such furniture near heating devices, since when heated, the plastic deteriorates and releases harmful substances.
- Chipboard. The most popular and affordable is a chest of drawers made of chipboard. It cannot be called strong and durable, but with proper use and care it will last long enough. When producing children's furniture, the material undergoes strict testing for environmental friendliness and strength. However, you should check the formaldehyde-free certificate before purchasing.
- MDF. A material that is not inferior in environmental friendliness and practicality to natural wood. Structures made from MDF are quite durable and are not afraid of moisture, but you will have to pay an order of magnitude less for it than for a similar one made from solid wood.
Photos of changing chests in the interior
A modern chest of drawers with a changing table is a convenient, specially equipped place for caring for a newborn, as well as spacious furniture for storing clothes, cosmetics, diapers and other baby items that should always be at hand.
When choosing, it is important to consider the quality and appearance of the furniture. This design with interesting decor can become a real highlight in a child’s bedroom.
Changing chest 2 months later/changes/shopping for baby
Stage two: assembling the changing table
Having at hand a drawing of the finished product and an assembly sketch, which I prudently prepared at a cutting company, assembling a chest of drawers with a changing table will not be difficult. The only difficulty that arose at the first stage was the disassembly of the blanks, which were folded en masse into a single package - here the company made a mistake and did not bother to number the products. I had to check the dimensions and sign everything myself - half an hour and the problem was solved.
Then everything went like clockwork - first we take a couple of sides and a bottom. The first two are easily recognizable by the bevels for the baseboard, and the bottom turned out to be one of a kind. These parts are twisted together with confirmations through pre-drilled holes. Following these parts, the top shelf is installed - the principle is the same here. The whole issue is resolved by screwing it with confirmations.
Having received a rigid rectangle (in fact, this is the body of the chest of drawers), you should immediately take care of its lower part - using the same confirmations, a decorative board is installed that blocks access under the chest of drawers. Also, plastic linings are placed on the sidewalls, the purpose of which is to protect the chipboard from moisture formed on the floor after washing the floors.
At the next stage of work, you can fix the back wall of the chest of drawers - as a rule, it is fiberboard. It is fixed with small nails or self-tapping screws. In my situation, the manufacturer decided to make it from two parts, to connect which he carefully attached a plastic strip.
Next come the doors - the sequence of their installation is as follows. To begin with, the hinge is mounted in the door - usually it is screwed with two small screws. The most important thing at this stage of work is to install them evenly, so that the part attached to the chest of drawers is strictly perpendicular to the end of the door.
After the hinges are installed on the door, you can start attaching them to the chest of drawers - first, it’s better to make markings. You need to put the door in place, carefully position it, and then mark with a pencil where the screws will be installed. Next, in the marked places, we drill shallow holes of small diameter into which we screw screws directly through the hinge.
Once the doors are securely installed on the chest of drawers, they can be adjusted with special screws on the hinges and equipped with handles.
Following them, we assemble and install a changing table on the chest of drawers. It turned out to be easy to assemble the table itself, and install it on the chest of drawers too, since the principle here is the same - all the parts are connected with confirmations that are familiar to us.
