Choosing the best changing table is just one of many important decisions for a daycare owner to make. While this job can be very rewarding, it comes with a lot of responsibilities to keep both the care providers and kids in your care safe. With the proper tools and equipment, owning a daycare can be a rewarding and fun experience.

Running a daycare also comes with a long shopping list of furniture items you will need. One piece of furniture every daycare needs is a proper changing table. The right table keeps the kids in your care safe while also being easy to use for care providers.

Are you shopping for a changing table but not sure where to begin? You’ve come to the right place! This guide will go over key features to look for in a good changing table and what kinds of tables are on the market. That way, you can shop for a changing table that creates a safe and fun environment for your kids.

Why Choosing a Good Daycare Changing Table Matters

Choosing the right changing table is crucial for both the safety and efficiency of your daycare. While any table may seem sufficient, using the proper equipment can make a significant difference in daily operations. Proper changing tables help keep childcare providers comfortable while they work while also making sure the children are safe.

Childcare providers use changing tables daily, which in turn creates a lot of wear and tear. When you select a well-built changing table, you’re guaranteed longer use and an easier changing process.

What to Consider When Choosing a Changing Table

With so many changing tables on the market, how do you know what makes a table a good one? When shopping for a changing table for your daycare, there are several factors and features you should keep in mind to make sure you pick the right one. We’ve created a list of these features you can look back on while you look for a changing table.

Safety Features

One of the big things to keep an eye out for when shopping for a changing table is proper safety features. To start, well-built changing tables need a sturdy construction, including safety rails and straps to keep the child secure. Look for tables that are solid and stable so they do not tip or wobble while a child is on them.

Another thing to keep in mind is any age or weight restrictions. What age group of kids will you primarily take care of in your daycare? Be sure to find a changing table that can safely handle the age and weight limits of your kids.

Lastly, look for changing tables that have certifications for safety. For example, Greenguard-certified changing tables and daycare furniture are allergen-free.

Durability and Material

The material you choose for your changing table can impact its durability and cleanliness. Changing tables can come in wood, plastic, or metal, depending on what you’re looking for. Each material has its strengths and weaknesses, and it is best to choose one that meets your daycare’s needs.

Wooden tables are durable and sturdy, so you don’t have to worry about them wobbling or breaking. However, they can be tougher to clean, and frequent cleaning can potentially warp the wood.

Plastic tables are easy to clean but can be fragile and prone to breaking. Lastly, metal tables are both durable and easy to clean, but they are not as comfortable and can cause serious injuries if they fall over.

At the end of the day, look for a changing table that can stand up to daily use and frequent cleanings. Invest in a changing table that will last a long time, even against the chaos of a daycare setting.

Hygiene

Hygiene is crucial in a daycare setting, as germs can spread rapidly between the kids. While the material of the table needs to be easy to clean, this also goes for the cushion or cover on the top.

This cushion keeps the child comfortable while on the changing table, and childcare providers typically clean it in between kids. Look for changing tables that come with a removable cushion or cover that can go in the washing machine. If the material can be spot-cleaned easily, this is also a great find.

There are also newer changing tables that come with a built-in sink. This makes cleaning more convenient and can help keep these spaces more hygienic.

Size and Space Requirements

Your daycare has a specific amount of space where you can put furniture without overcrowding it. When shopping for furniture such as changing tables, know the general square footage of your space and what size of furniture will fit. If you can, measure the space you want to put the changing table with a tape measure and look for furniture that fits those dimensions.

Changing tables come in a variety of widths and heights to fit any space. Whether you need a taller one with more storage space or a wider one, there is the right one for your daycare.

There are also changing tables that are set to an ergonomic height for caregivers. Instead of having to hunch forward over the table, they sit higher and allow a caregiver to take care of the kid without the risk of injuring or straining their back.

Storage Options

With all the diapers, wipes, toys, and cleaning products, you need a way to store all of these supplies out of the reach of tiny hands. Proper storage not only keeps your daycare supplies organized but also improves overall efficiency and safety.

Many changing tables come with built-in diaper storage, shelves, drawers, or cabinets that provide extra storage for changing supplies. Everything is in one place and easy to reach, even with a child on your hip.

If you’re working with a smaller space, you can maximize the space with storage. Store whatever you can to keep your daycare decluttered and free of any tripping hazards. You can also invest in locking or closing storage options to keep cleaning supplies away from curious children.

Accessories and Customization

Modern changing tables come with a catalog of accessories and customization options to fit your needs. Accessories can include stairs for toddlers, built-in sinks, diaper storage containers, and liners or pads for the table. Create a table that meets your specific needs and makes the changing process as smooth as possible.

You can customize your changing table for both functionality and looks. This can include adding storage or changing the color or finish on the table to match the aesthetic of your daycare. No matter the style of your daycare, you can find a changing table that blends in with the space.

The Best Changing Tables for Daycares

We’ve mentioned multiple times what makes a good daycare changing table, but how do you know which is the best fit for your daycare? There are different types of changing tables for different circumstances, depending on the age of the children in your care and the space you have.

Toddler Changing Table With Stairs

A changing table for a toddler looks different than one for an infant. Toddlers are more mobile and want more freedom, so you need a larger table that gives them the feeling of independence while keeping them safe. Toddler changing tables are a great option if you’re working with older kids.

Looking for a toddler changing table for your daycare? Tot Mate has a whole collection of toddler furniture to meet your needs and make your daycare space safe and fun for your children. A walkup changing table with stairs allows for a toddler to safely climb up while also offering tons of storage space for supplies.

Infant Changing Table

Infants have different needs than toddlers when it comes to a changing table. They are smaller than toddlers and therefore require a smaller changing table. Infant and baby changing tables also come with more safety features, such as handrails and buckles to prevent a baby from rolling off.

These tables work great for daycares that work primarily with infants and small babies. If you work with smaller children, an infant changing table may be the right table for you.

Changing Table with Built-In Storage

As mentioned earlier, the changing process requires many supplies, like diapers, wipes, creams, and more. Keeping those supplies near the changing table can make the whole process smoother and easier for daycare workers.

Many modern changing tables come with built-in storage options such as cabinets and shelves.

Changing Table with Sink

If you have the space for it, perhaps look into a changing table with a built-in sink. While these tables take up a little more space, the added sink makes cleaning easier and diaper changing faster. Instead of having to go over to the sink on the other side of the room, you have running water right where you need it.

If you are interested in a changing table with a sink, keep in mind the age of the children in your care. If you work with older kids and you worry about them messing with the sink during changing, this is something to keep in mind. Choose the table that best fits your wants and needs.

Daycare Changing Table Accessories

In addition to a reliable changing table, you also need accessories to improve the efficiency of the table and make the process run smoothly. One option to consider is a wall-mounted diaper storage container. Not only do these containers make diapers within reach in a pinch, but they also save you space. If you are working with a smaller daycare space, wall-mounted storage keeps things organized.

Another great changing table accessory is changing table paper. Similar to the paper on exam tables in a doctor’s office, this paper keeps the table sanitary and makes cleaning a breeze. Clean up any mess with less hassle, giving you more time to take care of the children.

FAQ

What should you look for in a changing table?

When choosing a changing table for your daycare, there are a few things to keep in mind. One of the most important factors is the table's durability and safety. Look for tables made from durable, easy-to-clean material and with proper safety features such as guardrails. Other things to look out for are the size of the table, ample storage space, and good hygiene.

How high should a changing table be?

The exact changing table height depends on the type of table you purchase. Infant tables are a different height than toddler tables. The average height for a changing table is around 36 to 43 inches tall.

What’s the best way to organize changing supplies in a daycare?

Running a daycare means a ton of supplies, from wipes to diapers. A great way to organize all of this stuff is with a changing table with built-in storage, wall-mounted diaper storage containers, and locking storage options to keep the little ones safe.