What Do I Need for a Diapering Station?

Setting up a diapering station is absolutely essential to a smooth transition into parenthood. It’s even more vital for those with multi level homes to have more than one. Having a station that is well appointed on each level will lessen a lot of time and frustration. You can purchase actual stations or just make sure there is a changing pad and a basket of necessities available. We recommend the following items per station:

Diapers

Our personal favorite diapers are Pampers Swaddlers. We have found that they have less leaks overall and tend to be a softer option. They have a simple nice smell and conform better to a newborns tiny legs. Pro Tip: Make sure the gussets around the legs are extended out from the diaper instead of being pinned inside of the leg to prevent leaks out of the legs.

Wipes

For a hypoallergenic option, Water wipes steal the show, but all other brands work just as well. No need for a wipe warmer unless you feel its necessary. Most babies hate diaper changes whether the wipes are room temperature or warmed.

Ointment

Your baby may never need any ointment, but it’s likely they will. having some on hand will make things a lot less stressful in those early weeks especially. We love Aquaphor for it’s gentleness, but for a more medicated cream, Destin creamy or A+D id great!

Absorbent squares

These are called chux pads and they are a life saver for your changing table, bed, or wherever you are changing your baby. Babies tend to pee and poop as soon as their diapers are removed or their bottoms are wiped. Having a chux underneath them will save you from having to wash changing pad covers, towels, or bedding due to accidents.

Small light

We love a good push button light for the diaper changing area. It gives off enough light to be helpful without making it so bright that it completely wakes up a baby. You can also search for a low muted light like the Hatch system. The Hatch also provides white noise as an added bonus.

Hand Sanitizer

Sometimes a bathroom isn’t close by! Having some gentle sanitizer is always a nice addition to your set up. We highly recommend a large bottle with pump due to being able to use it single handed.

Set of Clothing

Keeping 1-2 sleepers or onesies on hand for when your baby poops or pees out of their diaper is a great way to reduce the time running from one place to another. A laundry basket close by is also handy.

Diaper Pail

Here’s the deal- you don’t absolutely have to have a diaper pail at every single diapering station, but it does help. At the very least, ensure there are diaper baggies handy, specifically for the smelly diapers. Being able to easily contain the smell is what this is all about!

If you’re a skimmer like me and just want a list, click below for a free printable!