Best Changing Pad 2020: Make Diaper Changing Easy for You and Your Baby

The first thing I had to learn immediately once I had my son was how to change a diaper! While people consider this as a dirty job, I can say that it’s been easy so far, especially when you invest in the right things. That’s why I always recommend parents to buy the best changing pad when it comes to cleaning and replacing their baby’s diapers.

But with the many changing pads available, what is the best one you should invest in? Read on!

What Are Changing Pads?

What Are Changing Pads

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You’re probably wondering: What’s a changing pad in the first place? These are soft pads made out of various materials used to keep your baby still and comfortable while you change him. Changing pads come in different shapes and sizes, all depending on the size of your baby and what you need it for.

So if you’re having a difficult time changing your baby when traveling or need a soft padding instead of using just the changing table, then this is the product for you. Many parents (just like me!) consider this as a necessary investment since, let’s face it, every baby makes a mess and we’d rather focus on cleaning our little ones in one area.

You can find tons of online stores and baby shops in your local mall selling these useful baby products.

Why Should You Invest In a Changing Pad?

Why Should You Invest In a Changing Pad?

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But why is it something worth investing in? After all, you see a ton of changing tables in malls today and isn’t my table at home fine enough? I’ll have to disagree with you there!

Here are the benefits owning a changing table can give you:

Clean Changing Station

With the right changing pad, you are always assured a clean changing station every time. You won’t need to worry about cleaning your tables and dressers since you just need to throw your changing pad covers in the wash or wipe it away from the stains.

It’s more hygienic than using public changing tables alone as well since a table that’s not clean enough can cause your baby to have a diaper rash. Plus, they are easy to bring around, so no need to worry about taking up too much weight or space in your bag.

Secure Your Baby

A changing pad can come with a belt, which will help reduce the chances of your baby wiggling too much and causing messes and blunders. It also keeps them comfortable during the whole diaper changing process, which can be stressful for your little one!

How to Use a Changing Pad

How to Use a Changing Pad

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Now that you’re familiar with what a changing pad can do for you and your baby, the next question is: How can you use it properly and ensure that it lasts for a long time? Here are some tips on using a changing pad:

  • Before leaving the house, ensure that the changing pad is folded well and ready to be taken with you. Make a list for your baby before leaving the house to know that you’ve got everything when it comes to changing his diapers, such as overnight diapers, baby wipes, and other necessities your baby may need while on-the-go.
  • check When changing your baby’s diaper, avoid you or your baby from making a mess by using a lock or belt to keep him still. Use the changing pad on restrooms and avoid changing it in inappropriate places such as restaurants or the outdoors, where the heat can harm your baby as well. Secure the changing pad to prevent it from sliding, using an even surface.
  • check Once you have finished changing your baby’s diaper on the pad, be sure to wash or clean it immediately if it has any stains or smell. If you are not at home, then wash it once you have access to do so. That way, you’ll be ensured that the stains won’t be permanent or damage the pad’s material in any way.

If you’re still having a bit of a difficult time changing diapers, here is an excellent video tutorial to help you out: If you’re still having a bit of a difficult time changing diapers, here is an excellent video tutorial to help you out:

What to Look For In a Changing Pad

​Once you’re familiar with everything you need to know about a changing pad, the next step is purchasing one. As I mentioned earlier, you can find a ton of these products available in online and local stores near you. So how do you know which one is the best? Here are some tips you can follow:

What to Look For In a Changing Pad

​Types of Diaper Pads

There are three different kinds of diaper pads:

1. Standard Changing Pad

These are your primary changing pads you’ll be attaching to your dresser or table. It takes the form of a mini mattress you can use for only changing diapers. These are easy to maintain because you use a cover that you can throw in the wash to protect it from diaper leaks. But, they are only for home use.

2. Travel Changing Pad

These are usually for traveling but can also be used for your dresser or table at home. Though they aren’t as padded as the standard changing pad, they are lightweight and reusable, similar to the material of towels. It’s easy to fold and don’t take much room, plus they can come in various colors and patterns.

Another plus is that some come with pockets to keep your baby’s essentials inside, while others can be used as a playmate as well. It’s a versatile tool for families always outdoors.

3. Disposable Changing Pad

Disposable changing pads remove the need to clean covers or changing pads, as all you need to do is to take it to the trash. They are lightweight and foldable, though it can be an expensive purchase since you need to keep on buying these pads multiple times. BUT, they are affordable and come in packs to make it easier to invest in.

Material and Cleanability

There are more features you’ll need to look for in a changing pad, such as its material. Ensure that it’s both durable and soft enough to keep your baby comfortable for extended periods of time.

It’s also best to have a changing pad with leak proof material to make it easier to clean. A waterproof surface or good changing pad cover is recommended to avoid spills on other surfaces.

​Other Features

There are new features changing pads have today, including a safety belt to keep your baby secure, or a changing pad that can turn into a play mat with pockets to store their essentials.

​Size and Design

For standard changing pads, I recommend you to get a curved bed to avoid your baby wiggling too much and to increase the risk of him falling from the pad. Determine the size of your table or your baby to find the perfectly sized changing pad that fits him.

Five Best Changing Pad Reviews 2018

Out of all the changing pads tested and considered, here are my top five choices:

1. SnoofyBee Portable Clean Hands Changing Pad

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What I appreciate about SnoofyBee is its versatility. It isn’t only a changing pad, but it can also be a play mat where your kids can stay put and comfortable. You can attach toys to it! It comes with a redirection barrier to ensure that your baby is safe and secure on his changing pad. It can also hold diaper essentials without hassle.

I like how it folds up into a cool clutch design, perfect for stylish moms out there. As for material, it’s made out of durable fiber with water-resistant features. It also comes with a 1/4-inch thick foam pillow, so your little one is well-rested if you use this as a play mat.

Pros

  • thumbs-o-upUsed as both changing pad and play mat
  • thumbs-o-up Water-resistant
  • thumbs-o-up Thick foam
  • thumbs-o-up Cute clutch design when folded
  • thumbs-o-up Can fold slim diapers or wipes into it.

Cons

  • thumbs-downA bit expensive
  • thumbs-down Might be too big for newborn babies

2. Crystal Baby Smile Portable Changing Pad/Diaper Clutch

Via Amazon.com

Crystal Baby Smile Portable Changing Pad is simple and practical. I come in a clutch bag design with a handle for easy traveling. It also has a pocket and straps for your baby’s items, from diapers to small essentials and toys. I love the mesh and zippered pockets that hold everything well.

It’s very organized and comes with everything you need in one changing pad, including the water-resistant and soft material. It’s wide enough for babies to toddlers, with the lightweight pad. So if you want something to help lessen the weight of your diaper bag, then this is it.

Pros

  • thumbs-o-upIdeal thickness and soft pad
  • thumbs-o-up Has organized pockets
  • thumbs-o-up Lightweight material
  • thumbs-o-up Cool clutch design for easy traveling
  • thumbs-o-up Easy to clean

Cons

  • thumbs-downA bit too small for bigger toddlers
  • thumbs-down Not much variety for designs

3. Summer Infant Contoured Changing Pad

Via Amazon

If you need a changing pad suitable for home use, then Summer Infant is best known for their durable and comfortable pads. It’s made out of durable quilted vinyl, with the waterproof material you can easily clean with a cloth.

It has the contoured wall design with a quick release safety belt, so your baby won’t have any trouble staying on the pad. With the belt, you can change him without your little one squirming too much.

There is also a nonskid bottom and security strap that keeps your changing pad attached to the dresser or changing table, so you are assured that it stays in place, no matter the size of the table.

Pros

  • thumbs-o-upSecurity straps and non-skid bottom for security
  • thumbs-o-up Soft material for comfortable baby
  • thumbs-o-up Solid and durable, made out of waterproof material
  • thumbs-o-up Large enough for toddlers
  • thumbs-o-up Can fit any dresser or table
  • thumbs-o-up Easy to clean

Cons

  • thumbs-downThe quilted cover may let liquid soak in
  • thumbs-down Belt isn’t very durable
  • thumbs-down Always requires the cover

4. LA Baby Waterproof 4-Sided Cocoon Style Changing Pad

Via Amazon

What I appreciate about the LA Baby Waterproof Changing Pad is that it comes with all contoured wall dies that make me assured that the baby won’t be falling off, no matter how squeamish he seems to be during diaper changes. It even comes with a belt for extra security.

It’s attached with the help of straps, including a non-skid bottom that won’t slide no matter what surface you put it on. It also comes with a quilted outer cover that’s waterproof and antimicrobial, also free from allergies and toxins that can harm your baby. Plus, it’s effortless to clean and is stain resistant!

Pros

  • thumbs-o-upHigh contoured walls
  • thumbs-o-up Comfortable and soft padding
  • thumbs-o-up Water and stain resistant
  • thumbs-o-up No toxins and non-allergenic
  • thumbs-o-up Non-skid bottom and straps included
  • thumbs-o-up Fits on many dressers and tables

Cons

  • thumbs-downCover and straps aren’t removable
  • thumbs-down Slides easily on smooth wood
  • thumbs-down Seams may break easily when kicked

5. The Snug Bug Diaper Changing Pad

Via Amazon

If you need a changing pad to bring anywhere, then this simple pad will do wonders. It can easily be rolled and fits in any bag. The pad is also easy to clean and with the comfortable quilted material that keeps your baby resting well while doing the diaper change.

It’s large enough and rolls up quickly and efficiently, making it worth the purchase. And with its waterproof material, it’s easy to wipe and wash stains away. It’s ready to use anytime and anywhere, no matter how big your toddler is.

Pros

  • thumbs-o-upEasy to wipe or wash
  • thumbs-o-up Quickly rolls up
  • thumbs-o-up Fits in any bag
  • thumbs-o-up Big enough for toddlers
  • thumbs-o-up Padding is cushioned well enough
  • thumbs-o-up Waterproof and soft material

Cons

  • thumbs-downButton breaks quickly
  • thumbs-down A bit thin quilting requires extra pad on hard grounds
  • thumbs-down No pockets or belt

Conclusion

Since you’ll be changing your baby’s diaper multiple times a day for a few years, it’s best to invest in something to quickly change his diaper no matter where you are. With a comfortable changing pad, you can transport anywhere; you don’t need to worry about frantically looking for the nearest changing area anymore.

Out of all the changing pads I tried and reviewed, the best one would have to go to SnoofyBee Portable Clean Hands Changing Pad. It isn’t only a changing pad, but also a playmate with a redirection barrier for safety. It can even transform into a cute diaper clutch you can bring anywhere without the bulk or lack of design.

It’s easy to set up and looks stylish for all mommies out there. And with its strength and durability, you’ve assured a changing pad for your active baby’s first years.

I hope that this article on the best changing pad helped you become more knowledgeable on what you need to invest in for your baby’s hygiene. So what are you waiting for? Invest in the best changing pad today and enjoy the benefits it has to offer.

If you have any questions or would like to share your reviews on the best changing pad, then comment down below. I would love to hear what you have to think.

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Sarah Palmer
Hi! I'm Sarah. My husband and I have a beautiful little girl; plus we’re anxiously awaiting the arrival of Baby #2, so this is a very exciting time for us. Throughout this amazing journey called Parenthood, I’ve learned so much and love sharing my experiences with other parents at SarahsLovelyFamily.com. I'd love to share my discoveries with you too!
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  1. […] Changing Pads (they usually come with the diaper bag) […]

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