Changing pads are one of those items you didn’t think would require that much thought before you became a mom. But now that you’re here, you see that the quality of a changing pad can make or break a diaper changing session.
I’ve had plenty of experiences with flimsy and cheap changing pads and I’ve realized just how much quality matters for this necessary task. The best changing pad is both comfortable for your baby and mess-free for you.
Skip Hop Foam Changing Pad
Mama’s Choice: Best Overall
This style changing pad is the best of both worlds as far as comfort and clean up go. The soft, plush foam that makes up this changing pad is ergonomically shaped to support your baby’s body during diaper changes.
A distraction-worthy toy bar and a secure, no-skid base are the top features that make this my pick for best changing pad.
What I Love
- Tuck-away toy bar to distract baby during diaper changes
- Wipeable pad does not absorb liquids or smells
- No-skid base and tabletop attachment keeps pad secure
- Safety belt keeps baby safe
Even if you’re not normally one for distractions, you’ll be thankful for the toy bar on this changing pad as soon as you experience your first really messy diaper. In that case, your little one can play away while you change their clothes and wipe down the foam pad.
Fortunately, the material is stain resistant and does not absorb odors or liquids. This foam changing pad is an easy, comfortable option for your baby and a mess-free option for you.
Check PriceNaturepedic Organic Cotton Contoured Changing Pad
Mama’s Choice: Best Lux Option
If comfort for your baby is one of the highest priorities on your search for a diaper changing pad, this may be the best changing pad for you.
Made out of memory foam and contoured to support your little one’s head, The Ark is a plush and mess-free option for your changing pad needs.
What I Love:
- Safety straps for baby security
- Heavy duty easy snap screws keeps pad in place
- Memory foam padding is comforting for baby during changes
- BPA-free and hypo-allergenic
- Can be used with most standard-sized changing pad sheets
The memory foam padding is comforting and also helps keep your baby from rolling to the side. The safety belt is also there for use, just in case.
This is a standard sized changing pad that won’t lose its shape over time. I’d top it with some jersey knit sheets and make sure the pad is securely fastened to the wall before plopping my little one up for the first diaper change of the day.
Check PriceLekebebay Portable Diaper Changing Pad
Mama’s Choice: Best On-The-Go Option
Moms who are on the go or frequently travelling need a changing bad they are confident in. If you’re planning a trip for the future or are tired of relying on thin, plastic sheets to protect your baby while on the go, this is the best changing pad for you.
What I Love
- Large pockets for wipes and diapers on the inside and small pockets for valuable items on the outside
- Secure strap for easy transport
- Built-in head cushion
- Waterproof and machine washable material
This large changing pad provides your baby with more than enough space to spread out while you take care of business. Everything you could need is within arms reach with the handy pockets included in the changing pad.
If there is a mess during the diaper change, rest assured that the material is stain resistant and waterproof, meaning it can be easily wiped down to prevent the mess from spreading.
Leke offers a 180-day warranty for quality-related issues for all of their products. This changing pad is sure to leave an impression for moms who are used to struggling during every diaper change. The Lekebaby changing pad makes diaper changes quicker and easier every time.
Check PriceHow to Choose the Best Changing Pad
The best changing pad is one that is comfortable for your baby, works well for your environment, and is easy to clean.
Before making your decision, consider where you will do most of your diaper changes. Make sure the changing pad you have in mind will fit comfortably and is capable of being secured in that area. You should also make sure you can reach all of the necessities: diapers, wipes, extra wipes, rash cream, etc.
Messes are inevitable during this daunting task, so make your life as easy as you can by cleaning the area and changing pad regularly. The easier it is to clean, the less you’ll dread the deed.
3 Important Factors to Consider When Choosing a Changing Pad
Just because you can change a diaper on anything doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be considerate when selecting a changing pad for yourself. Don’t forget to think about where you’ll use the pad the most, how you’ll clean it and how long you can use it.
- Location: Make sure the changing pad fits correctly on the changing table and is accessible and secured to the table somehow
- Cleanliness: Purchase extra changing pad sheets or disinfecting wipes for your changing pad, depending on the material
- Size: The smaller a changing pad is, the less time you’ll be able to use it
Other Changing Pads You May Consider
Characteristics of other changing pads may appeal to some moms more than others. The important thing is that every mom finds the best changing pad for them and sticks to it.
LA Baby Cocoon Style Changing Pad
This style of changing pad includes high walls on all sides of the pad to help keep your little one safe and contained on the table.
What I Love
- High barriers and safety belt keep baby safe
- Vinyl cover is waterproof and stain resistant
- No-skid bottom and security strap keeps pad from sliding during diaper changes
- Standard-sized sheets fit great
What’s Meh
- Cover cannot be removed to wash completely
- Material is thin and can wear with time
The shape of this changing pad is what sets it apart from the rest. While some moms love the added safety bonus, others mention that it makes the pad useless once the baby grows too big.
Standard-sized sheets can be used and the vinyl cover can be cleaned with soap and water. The changing pad is sure to remain secure with the included safety straps and no-skid bottom.
Check PriceBumbo Foam Changing Pad
Cleaning up after a diaper change is never a fun job, but the process is a little easier with a changing pad like this. The beauty of foam changing pads is there are no sheets or laundry involved and the pad can be cleaned with a simple wipe down.
What I Love
- Super soft and high-quality foam
- Safety belt is included
- Easily cleanable
- Very lightweight
What’s Meh
- No slip resistant bottom or security straps
- Pad could get ruined if fully soaked
This changing pad looks large but it is around average size and can fit in most areas. It is also available in several different colors, including gray, pink and beige.
Pair this pad with a non-slip pad to ensure stability and you’re set for the diaper changes to begin!
Check PriceClosing Thoughts
Changing pads should not be the source of a large amount of stress for you or your baby. Diaper changes take up so much time every day that it makes sense to use the changing pad that you like best.
You cannot escape the messes and explosions that will happen, you can only prepare for them.
Pick the best changing pad for your cleaning style and peace of mind and your sanity will thank you for it!
