The modern children's products industry offers new universal solutions for child care. The priority is to ensure the safety of the baby, versatility and creating comfortable conditions for parents.
Such multifunctional products include a changing chest.
A changing chest is a device designed to:
- for changing and caring for a newborn;
- for organizing and storing things and care products
- to maintain the baby’s hygiene conditions.
Why do you need a changing table?
Many people refuse to buy it because they only need it for the first few months. Rational mothers prefer to spend money on something more useful, but they often make mistakes.
It will be convenient to lay the baby on the table to change his clothes. It is tall enough, so you don't need to bend low to it. You can purchase a multifunctional device. More often they combine a chest of drawers with a changing table or even a crib.
- If you refuse to buy, think about whether there is a flat and comfortable horizontal surface in your house to change your baby?
- Also, the necessary things must be located next to her: a crib, clothes, skincare products.
- It must also meet safety requirements in terms of levelness and stability.
- It should not be overweight or wobbly.
The child must remain supervised, otherwise he may fall.
If you don’t have such a surface, still think about purchasing a changing table.
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.
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.
Pros and cons of the design
Such furniture has both its advantages and disadvantages. The first include:
- It is mobile and disassembles, so it can be rearranged and transported anywhere;
- The process of swaddling and changing clothes becomes easier and faster;
- If there are restrictive sides, this increases the safety of the child and the mother’s peace of mind for him;
- Often there are shelves or drawers at the bottom in which you can store clothes and everything you need to care for your baby. They also produce cribs with a changing table, which allows optimal use of space.
Unfortunately, along with the advantages, there are also disadvantages:
- It often takes up a lot of space, sometimes stealing precious space;
- If the table is on wheels, then it is better to purchase clamps so that it does not accidentally move. You should also keep an eye on the baby and do not leave him alone on the surface of the table;
- If you want to see some additional functions in the model, this can increase the cost of the product.
Peculiarities
Today you can find changing pads of various shapes, designs, sizes, with ornaments, stickers or minimalist design solutions, with baths, shelves and cabinets. You can also make it yourself.
Did you know? The streamlined sides of the changing table allow you to create safe conditions for everyday hygiene procedures, massage and gymnastics for newborns. The diaper can also be used for taking air baths.
The convenient arrangement of cabinets, shelves and additional drawers greatly facilitate the process of daily care and help maintain order and cleanliness.
A modern diaper changer is also a stylish piece of furniture. A correctly chosen device model has every chance of perfectly fitting into the interior of a child’s room or parents’ bedroom.
The convenient height and location of the device will help the mother remove excess stress from the spine and take a more comfortable and natural position during everyday procedures for caring for the newborn.
It is worth remembering, no matter how safe and convenient the swaddling device may seem, you cannot leave the child alone unattended on the table.
The size and type of diaper changer should be selected based on the dimensions of the room, the model and location of the crib, as well as personal design or functional preferences. Changing chests can be of two main types: classic and transformable.
Classic model with built-in table
These are standard children's chests of drawers with a non-removable changing table. This model has drawers and shelves.
From a functional point of view, the device is convenient, reliable and spacious. It can be placed either in the corner of the room or in the center. The dimensions, dimensions and shape of such tables vary depending on the capabilities and wishes of the buyer.
A noticeable disadvantage of this model is that as the child grows up, it becomes redundant and unsuitable for further use.
Children's transforming chests of drawers
Transforming chests of drawers have drawers and shelves; the changing board can be folding, pull-out or removable.
The sides of the table are made of safe material, have the required height and a streamlined design.
This multifunctional device will help keep the room clean, organize proper storage and order, and the changing bed will delight you with its spaciousness and comfort.
Typically, in addition to this model, waterproof mattresses or rugs are provided.
Models with wheels can be easily moved around the room.
Important! Models with wheels should have brakes to keep them stationary when necessary.
An important advantage of these models is that, if necessary, the changing structure, tabletop or board can be removed and the chest of drawers can be used to store bed linen and other things. The table can become a stylish element of decor, a bedside chest of drawers or a cabinet.
Transformable bed + chest of drawers
This is a universal solution that combines a baby bed, a chest of drawers and a changing station.
Of course, this crib requires more free space, but on the other hand, such furniture provides an integrated approach to organizing sleep and caring for the child.
With such a universal crib, you won’t have to run from room to room, looking for diapers, onesies or powder. Everything is at hand here.
The berth of such beds can be with a transverse swing mechanism or stationary.
Some modern models are equipped with an automatic rocking mechanism (the mechanism responds to the baby’s crying) and have a built-in MP3 player where parents can record their voices or the baby’s favorite lullabies.
Another advantage of such a transforming crib is that over time it can be disassembled into a crib for a schoolchild and a table for studying, and the chest of drawers can be used as a cabinet for notebooks and textbooks.
Chest of drawers with bath
This model consists of a chest of drawers, a changing table and a removable bathtub, which is stored in the middle drawer or on the shelf of the device.
The model is universal, has different compartments, including those made of waterproof materials for bathing a child and storing hygiene items. It can be moved from the nursery to the bathroom, and can be used both for safe bathing and for changing.
However, the disadvantage of this device is its relatively short operation, since the bath and countertop become small too quickly.
How to choose a changing table
The photo of the changing table shows that there are many models of different sizes, configurations and from different materials.
Therefore, you should choose the ideal option for yourself based on the following criteria:
- We are still talking about furniture for a child, so the material must be environmentally friendly. It is better to take a natural wooden structure, it is easy to assemble and the material is clean. A mattress is usually placed on the surface; attention should also be paid to its quality. Its surface should absorb moisture well and not be slippery;
- It’s better to pay a certain amount and take a multifunctional model than to take the simplest option and then suffer from the inconvenience. You should be comfortable using this furniture;
- The table should be stable, not shaky and strong;
- The height of changing tables usually takes into account the height of the average woman. You can purchase a copy with retractable legs, then height adjustment will be available to you;
- Children grow, so the table surface should be wide and comfortable;
- Pay attention to the limiting edges. It is better to choose an option with them than without them;
- Check the quality and ease of opening and closing the drawers, how easy it is to take something from the shelves if the changing table is equipped with them;
- If you have a version with a hinged lid, check that the lid is securely fastened. It should be well fixed in any position, especially in a folding position;
- pay attention to the fittings. It must be strong and reliable;
If the model has open shelves, it is better to choose the option with limiters. Then things will be alright.
The best inexpensive changing chests
4 Polini Simple 1270
In fourth place in the subcategory is the changing chest of drawers from the Russian brand Polini Simple 1270. Polini Kids furniture is produced according to European designs and is characterized by high quality workmanship and materials, and original design solutions.
The Simple 1270 model is a 2 in 1 product, with a removable folding changing table. The size of the changing area is approximately 63 by 77 cm. For storing various useful things, there are two sections separated by a shelf behind swinging doors. An open shelf under the table, consisting of two compartments.
The body material is Kronospan chipboard made in Austria; safe and reliable fittings are used in the design. The table, when unfolded, has high sides on three sides, all details are distinguished by smooth lines. Low, stable legs serve as support for the product.
The design of the chest of drawers is made in several colors: plain white and four two-color options, with imitation wood. Among them you can choose an option for any interior.
The advantages of the model include ergonomics, functionality, workmanship, and reasonable cost. From the comments, the height of 86 cm is not comfortable for everyone.
Pros:
- Folding, removable changing surface.
- High-quality Kronospan and fittings.
- No sharp corners.
- Compact sizes.
- Choice of colors.
Minuses:
- Low for some moms.
- Simple look.
Polini Simple 1270
3 Fairy 1580
The birth of a child involves a large number of expenses, which a young family cannot do without.
In this regard, parents are faced with the question of rational use of funds. Another budget option for a changing chest from a domestic manufacturer is Fairy 1580. The cabinet is made of laminated DC boards, which are covered with a high-quality protective and decorative film that looks like plastic. This makes the chest of drawers both beautiful and very practical in terms of use.
When assembled, the product is quite roomy, but it fits compactly in the allotted space without taking up much space. There is a convenient folding changing pad at the top. Below are four drawers. The cabinet rests on a stable base.
A very decent chest of drawers in its price category. The laconic design with straight shapes and a minimum of decor are reminiscent of a calm Scandinavian style. It will be appreciated by parents who, in the hustle and bustle and worries, do not want to be distracted by trifles and fill the room space with unnecessary elements, and prefer minimalism and functionality in the overall design.
Thanks to the variety of colors, you can easily find your chest of drawers. The line also includes options with facade decoration in the form of children's appliqué.
Pros:
- Wide changing table.
- Spacious drawers.
- Compact size.
- Variety of colors.
- Laconic and functional design.
Fairy 1580
Types of tables
- The changing board is a conventional design, which is equipped with sides. It is made of wood and the covering is made of latex. It is easy to care for and wash. It is easy to carry, takes up little space and is inexpensive. The disadvantages include the fact that there are no shelves or cabinets on such a board;
- Board on the bed - only suitable for flat surfaces, because it can fall on an uneven floor. It is easy to carry, but takes up a lot of space. In addition, it is not recommended to move it so as not to scratch the floor;
- Changing board with whatnot - the frame itself can be anything - metal, wood, plastic, etc. The board itself is installed on top, and underneath there are shelves for different things. Takes up little space and moves easily;
- A changing table with a chest of drawers is easy to use because there is space for storing necessary things. The main thing is that the mattress does not slip on the surface;
- Transformable table - over time, this design can be converted into other furniture, for example, a desk;
- A table with a bathtub is suitable for swaddling a baby after washing. It combines both storage space and a bathtub where you can wash your baby. Comfortable, but not suitable for all sizes.
The best changing chests in the mid-price segment
large changing surface, good capacity of drawers. These chests of drawers are made from more durable materials, therefore they are characterized by a long service life. Analysis of the results of comparative tests allowed experts to identify the 6 best options in this category.
Fiorellino Crown
Rating: 4.9
A changing chest of drawers from a manufacturer from Slovenia attracts with its interesting design, reminiscent of royal furniture. The design is equipped with 3 drawers. On the top center there is a carved image of a crown, and on the sides there are monograms. The product is made from high-quality MDF in combination with alpine beech, which guarantees practicality and durability. The coating is water-based varnish or paint.
The height of the chest is 101 cm, width – 93 cm, length – 74 cm. The advantages include silent and smooth opening, greater depth of drawers, ergonomic handles. The presence of legs allows cleaning without moving children's furniture. Users highly rate the characteristics of the nominee; no negative reviews have been identified about him.
Advantages
- build quality;
- harmlessness of the coating for the baby;
- variety of color solutions;
- ease and noiselessness of movement of boxes;
- rounded corners;
- removable sides of the changing area;
- exquisite design.
Flaws
- heavy weight - 53.5 kg.
Nuovita Perla
Rating: 4.8
The changing chest from an Italian manufacturer is made of chipboard combined with solid beech. Features a classic, laconic design. All design details are characterized by perfect polishing. The body is coated with harmless paints of white, ivory or dark walnut, which allows you to choose the model to suit any interior design. The design includes 4 drawers with rounded handles, the top of which is decorated with elegant ornaments, a removable changing board with limiting sides.
Good stability and mobility of the chest of drawers is ensured by a base in the form of 2 front legs and 2 rear wheels. Considering its size, the model can be classified as a compact product. The height is 95 cm, width – 84 cm, length – 44 cm. The dimensions of the changing surface are 68 x 76 cm. Analysis of reviews confirms the absence of shortcomings in this product. 100% of respondents recommend purchasing it.
Advantages
- strong, durable and easy-to-care materials;
- spacious drawers with a closer;
- rounded corners;
- rollover resistance;
- quality of execution.
Flaws
- not found.
Papaloni Olivia 650
Rating: 4.7
The material used to make the changing chest, as in the previous case, is chipboard in combination with solid beech. The height of the product is 100 cm, width – 82 cm, length – 49 cm. The design includes 5 drawers with closers and a folding table top measuring 75 x 72 cm. The base is 4 legs, which are a continuation of the side inserts. The model range consists of 11 chests of drawers of different colors.
Users note the original appearance, high-quality execution of the chest of drawers, silent movement and greater depth of the drawers. Parents are also attracted to the replacement of the upper retractable element with two, but smaller ones. This provides convenient storage for baby rattles and hygiene items. When the table is unfolded, it is easy to get the necessary thing out of them. The presence of a base on legs allows you to wash floors without additional movement of the chest of drawers.
Advantages
- high quality and safety of materials;
- good fittings;
- no odor;
- rounded corners;
- large size of the changing surface;
- sustainability.
Flaws
- errors in the instructions that complicate assembly.
Mozhginsky Timber Mill Amalia
Rating: 4.7
This model is also presented in a classic design, including 5 solid colors. The chest of drawers consists of 4 drawers with stoppers, characterized by silent movement, a folding changing table with an unfolded length of 75 cm. Made of solid birch, coated with safe varnish. The height is 102.5 cm, width – 89 cm, length – 50 cm. The base is round legs, which prevent the product from tipping over.
Parents note the high quality of workmanship, the beautiful appearance of the chest of drawers, and the ease of removing things from the top drawers even with the table unfolded. On the first retractable element there is a milling of a bear sleeping for a month. Users have no complaints about the quality of materials and design features, but the execution of some elements reduces the overall rating of the product.
Advantages
- laconic design;
- environmentally friendly materials;
- ball guides;
- removable changing board;
- deep drawers;
- ergonomic handles.
Flaws
- there may be defects that complicate assembly;
- long-term weathering of a specific odor.
Gandylyan Sylvia luxury
Rating: 4.7
The main materials of the changing chest are Caucasian beech and chipboard, which ensures that it retains its presentable appearance for many years, even with active use. The surface is well sanded and coated with water-soluble varnish, which is resistant to external influences and harmless to children. There are no sharp corners in the design. It consists of 4 drawers and a folding tabletop. The small size of the last element (56 x 66 cm) will seem like a disadvantage to many, because this model can be used for swaddling a child no more than 6 months old.
The classic design of the changing chest is complemented by carved elements on the drawers, which gives it a special elegance. The base consists of front legs and rear wheels that make it easier to move the product. The height of the model is 103 cm, width – 98 cm, length – 45 cm. The owners note the high quality of workmanship, a reliable system of retractable elements, and clear instructions that facilitate the assembly process.
Advantages
- spacious drawers with stoppers and silent opening;
- durable and environmentally friendly materials;
- ease of use;
- variety of colors;
- stylish design;
- no smell.
Flaws
- a number of users complain about the complexity of the assembly.
Red Star S 568
Rating: 4.6
The design of the changing chest includes 4 drawers on ball guides and a folding shelf. The model is made from solid birch in combination with MDF. The curved front panels of the retractable elements add exclusivity to the design. The finishing is made of water-based dyes, which guarantees safety for the baby. The height of the product is 103 cm, width – 80 cm, length – 51 cm.
The kit includes a soft flooring that ensures the comfort of the child's stay on the changing surface. The basis is the legs, which prevent the chest from tipping over. The model is produced in 4 solid colors. Parents consider the pluses to be the possibility of using it in the future as an ordinary chest of drawers, and a good price/quality ratio. Even taking into account difficulties encountered during assembly, 100% of respondents recommend purchasing the product.
Advantages
- duration of operation;
- noiselessness and smooth movement of boxes;
- durable materials;
- quality of execution;
- ease of assembly:
- soft pads on the ends of the chest of drawers.
Flaws
- heavy weight – 56 kg.
How to use the changing table
There are a few tips to follow when using a changing table:
- The structure should unfold silently, and the drawers should move out quietly so that the child does not get scared;
- If hygiene items are stored in it, you should remove them as far as possible so that the child does not reach them;
- If something is broken or some part is missing, this furniture cannot be used. Don't forget about safety;
- You should not place the table near heating appliances and especially open fire, for example, a fireplace;
- Do not forget to periodically clean it from dust and dirt;
- The average maximum load on the structure is 15 kg. It is better not to exceed it;
- All fittings must be screwed in so that the child does not get caught or caught in anything;
- Do not move the table with your child. It is not safe;
- If you doubt the quality of the purchased model, you can watch video tutorials on how to make a changing table.
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.
- 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.
How long to use
People begin to use the changing table from the first days of life. It is swaddled or diaper changed frequently, so it will be used frequently.
Even in the first months of use, do not leave your baby unattended on it, even if he does not yet know how to roll over.
Usually they use it closely for up to six months. Then the child becomes mobile and large, so there is no need for it, even if the size of the changing table allows it.
Options for creating a changing surface
Changing table
Modern stores selling children's furniture and accessories offer us a wide selection of products designed for customers with different preferences and wallet sizes. When choosing a changing table, you need to pay attention to the following aspects:
- the presence of sides is an important design criterion that affects the level of safety of the product (until the baby begins to actively roll over, the sides will be able to keep him on the changing surface even if the mother is distracted or reduces her level of vigilance);
- if the model is equipped with wheels, i.e. the changing table is portable, then they must have reliable latches;
- The position of the child on the table will depend on its shape and size; the most convenient option is to position the baby with his legs forward towards the mother (in this position it is convenient to change the baby’s clothes, do gymnastics and other manipulations). If the child lies sideways (along the table), then changing his diaper and clothes is not so convenient, but it is easy to clean his ears and nose;
- From the point of view of the environmental friendliness of the product, the material used plays an important role. Ideally, a changing table should be made of wood that does not harm humans and the environment, can “breathe” and looks great in any interior;
- the table cover should be a special mattress or changing pad with a surface made of a material that does not slip, repels moisture and is easy to clean;
- The presence of pockets, shelves and other types of storage systems that allow you to keep all the necessary hygiene and baby care items “at hand” greatly simplifies the process of using the table.
There are models of changing tables designed for use in the bathroom. When choosing such products, you need to pay attention to the water-repellent properties of the frame material. Most often, such models have a built-in bath. The advantage of such a symbiosis is that parents will not need to bend over to bathe the baby and can immediately transfer the baby from the bathtub to the changing surface - dry and dress. The disadvantage of models with a built-in bath is their short service life. Usually, after 3-4 months, babies no longer fit in a small font, and they are still not allowed to bathe in a sitting position.
No less attention should be paid to the size of the table. The height of the changing surface is often adjustable in many modern models. If there is no such function, then you need to proceed from your own height, go to the table and imagine that you are carrying out manipulations to care for the baby. Take the choice of this option very seriously, because you will need to spend a lot of time on the changing surface and it is better not to create a load on the lumbar spine.
The changing table is rarely used for more than a year. Most often, the use of this convenient device ends much earlier, especially if the child is large or very active. Children grow very quickly, so it is better to buy a table for what is called growth. At first, you can use a mattress with a rigid base to conditionally fix the baby.
When choosing a changing table, you will also need to find out what the maximum weight of the child it can support. Of course, it is impossible to know in advance how actively your baby will develop and how quickly he will gain weight, but it is better to have at least a small margin of the maximum permissible weight of the baby to use the product.
The main disadvantages of changing tables are their short service life. Unlike a chest of drawers, which can be used for as long as you like (until the product itself exhausts its resource), a changing table rarely lasts more than a year. At the same time, it takes up some space in the room, which is extremely important in small apartments.
Changing board
In fact, this piece of furniture is a changing device and is a board that is either covered with easy-to-clean fabric and has soft sides, or can serve as a base for installing a mattress and is equipped with wooden (latex) sides. Boards are available in different modifications and sizes. Most have a length equal to the width of cribs (the concept of a standard in this case is very vague; domestic and foreign manufacturers often differ in parameters and it is necessary to choose a board “under the crib” in each specific case). For small-sized dwellings, in which all functional segments are located in one room, this option for saving usable space is very relevant.
The undoubted advantage of changing boards is their low cost (compared to tables and chests of drawers). Considering that this piece of furniture is purchased for several months, it will have time to amortize its relatively low price.
But there are also disadvantages to such alternatives to a changing table. If the board is located between the sides of the crib, then you will need to frequently move it to put the child to sleep, and then return it back to change clothes or perform other manipulations. But, we repeat once again, in conditions of small living spaces, this castling option will be a slight hindrance.
Chest of drawers with mattress or changing board
One of the most expensive, but at the same time durable options for organizing a changing surface for a baby is to purchase a chest of drawers with sides or a folding part for changing, as well as a regular storage system on which a changing mat or board is installed. The advantage of this approach is that you can use a chest of drawers you already have and purchase only a mattress with a rigid base, which costs significantly less than a full-fledged changing table.
Obviously, a storage system such as a chest of drawers will be used for many years. First, you place all the necessary items for caring for the baby in the depths of the drawers; over time, they are replaced by clothes, toys, books and other items necessary for the child’s growth and development.
Among the disadvantages of this method of providing a children's room with a changing surface, one can highlight only the relatively high cost of the piece of furniture and the need to purchase a mattress or changing board with sides. But there are many models on sale that are already equipped with sides and have a folding surface for changing. Subsequently, when there is no longer a need to use changing devices, the folding board can be removed from its hinges or simply left folded, and the sides can be used solely as a limitation of the surface for storing toys, for example.
Considering the long-term use of a chest of drawers, it is necessary to purchase it based on the general nature of the room, the chosen design style and color palette. In this case, you can go in two ways - the first involves the harmonious integration of the chest of drawers into the overall image of the room, the use of neutral colors and a design style common to all furniture. The second way is expressed in creating an accent - color, texture or stylistic. The easiest way is to choose a bright color for the chest of drawers, which will be placed against the background of neutral wall decoration and similar solutions for the rest of the furniture in the children's room.
There is a changing chest model that is part of a crib. On the one hand, such an ensemble is very convenient - it is easy to take the baby out of the crib and place it on the changing surface just a few centimeters from the bed. But on the other hand, the whole structure is quite bulky; not every children’s room can accommodate the entire set without compromising the rational distribution of usable space. Within a few months there will be no need to use a changing surface, and after a couple of years the child will not fit in the crib and the entire structure will need to be replaced with a larger bed and storage systems. But each parent has his own ideas about the child’s comfort and his own convenience, which is why such models are quite popular.
Something between a chest of drawers and a secretary, this is a shallow shelving unit with a folding surface for changing. When assembled, it looks like a regular storage system, takes up little space due to its shallow depth and allows you to place a large number of things and various devices on the shelves under and above the changing surface. When choosing such a model, an important factor will be the maximum permissible weight for a folding board, because... it has no supports on the floor or other surface.
Photo of a changing table for newborns
Where to install the changing surface?
There is no definite answer to this question - too many factors influence the choice of place to install a changing table or chest of drawers (everything is clear with the changing board - it will most of the time be located between the sides of the crib or constantly lie on the surface of the chest of drawers). If the installation of a changing table or chest of drawers is carried out in a room for a newborn, then choosing a suitable area is not difficult. Experts recommend placing the changing surface near the window, because you will need to be able to examine the baby in detail, clean his ears, nose and trim the corners, and in conditions of good natural light this is easiest to do.
But in Russian apartments (and most private houses) there are most often heating radiators under the windows, which means that for more than six months in this area there will be increased temperature and dry air. This means that you should be guided by the rules of ergonomics for installing desks - we install the changing surface on the wall perpendicular to the window on the right side, if you are right-handed (so that sunlight falls on the changing table on the left).
In addition to being located close to a window as a source of sunlight, it is obvious that the changing table or any alternative to it should be located close to the crib. But in this case, much depends on the dimensions of the room, layout, location and number of window and door openings.
