How to Stock a Changing Table

For at least the first two years of his life, you and your baby will spend a good deal of time at his diaper changing table. In order to make sure you have the proper supplies at hand, it's important to stock the changing table correctly, so you can change his diaper quickly and get on with the rest of your day.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Purchase the supplies you'll need to stock the changing table. These supplies include diapers, powder, diaper cream, baby wipes, nail clippers, body lotion, washcloths, a change of clothes and a hairbrush.
2. Stack the diapers on a shelf immediately below or next to the changing table pad on which your baby will lie. Store all diaper-changing supplies at arm's length, but out of the reach of your baby. These products contain substances that can prove toxic if your infant swallows them.
3. Store diaper creams, baby wipes and other changing table supplies in a nearby drawer. If the changing table doesn't have a drawer, consider purchasing small baskets in which to store the supplies and place the baskets on the changing table's shelves.
4. Place a cloth cover over the diaper changing pad to keep it clean. Store extra covers in the changing table, so you can quickly change it when an accident happens.
5. Make certain the diaper pail is right next to the changing table, so you can reach it while still having a hand on your baby's body. Consider storing extra bags or liners for the pail on the changing table's shelf or in one of its drawers.
6. Scout out weekly store advertisements to find deals on diaper-changing supplies. Stock up when you find a bargain and keep these items stored on an unused shelf on your changing table or in a nearby closet so they're readily accessible when you need them.
7. Monitor the level of the different supplies in the changing table and restock any item whose count is running low.

Tips & Warnings

• If you drop a diaper, baby wipe or tube of cream while your baby is on the changing table, leave it on the floor. Do not stoop to pick it up unless you're able to do so while keeping one hand on your baby at all times.
• Never take your eyes off your baby or move away from her while she's on the changing table. If you've forgotten to bring a change of clothes to the table, or you realize the table isn't stocked with fresh diapers, pick her up and take her with you to find what you need.