Change tables

Learn how to keep your infant safe when using change tables and playpen attachments.

On this page

• About change table safety
• Playpen attachments
• For more information

About change table safety

Parents often use a change table when changing their baby's diapers. Other elevated surfaces are also used, such as a bed or couch. Children can suffer serious injuries when left unsupervised on any elevated surface, as they can roll over and fall. Parents should supervise their children at all times while using a change table or other elevated surface to change diapers.

If you choose to use a change table, you can minimize risks by:

• following the manufacturer's instructions
• choosing a change table or mat with safety straps
• taking your baby with you if you leave the area for any reason
• preparing everything you need before you place your baby on the change table
• keeping one hand on your baby at all times when using the change table, even with the safety straps in use

Also keep harmful items out of reach while your baby’s on the change table, such as:

• lotions
• bottles
• creams
• plastic bags
• sharp objects

Playpen attachments

Some change tables or bassinets come as an attachment for a playpen. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for putting it together and using it.

Never place your baby:

• in a playpen while the change table or bassinet attachment is still in place
  • a baby's head can become trapped in the gap between the attachment and the playpen, leading to strangulation or suffocation.
• on the change table attachment to sleep
  • the safest place for your baby to sleep is in a:
    • crib
    • cradle
    • bassinet

For more information

• Playpens
• Consumer product safety: Is your child safe?