Preparing your changing space can feel like a puzzle. You want everything within reach, nothing bulky, and a calm spot where you can change nappies without stress. The good news is you do not need a lot. A few well-chosen accessories make nappy changes quicker, cleaner, and more comfortable for you and your baby.
In this guide, you will find the true essentials, the nice-to-haves, and simple tips to keep your changing station tidy and ready at any time. We will also answer the big questions about liners, covers, and what to store nearby.
Start with the base: pad or mat
Your base sets the tone. A supportive, wipe-clean surface is safest and simplest.
- A contoured or wedge style changing mat helps keep your baby centred and reduces rolling.
- Look for PVC- or TPU-coated surfaces that wipe down easily after each change.
- Firm padding is better than super-soft foam, since it supports your baby and cleans more thoroughly.
- Mats with soft bamboo fibres with supportive memory foam and washable covers can also make changing time more comfortable for baby.
If you are short on space, a compact folding mat works well for daytime changes in the living room. For a permanent setup in the nursery, a standard size mat on a sturdy dresser or changing unit is ideal. If you want to browse options, you can explore our range of baby changing mat here.
Tip: Always keep one hand on your baby during changes, even with a contoured mat. Safety first.
Do you need liners and covers?
Short answer: liners are very handy, covers are optional but can add comfort.
- Disposable liners: Great for newborn days when nappies are frequent and runny. They protect the mat and speed up clean-ups. Keep a small stack in a nearby basket.
- Reusable liners: Soft, absorbent pads that you can wash. Choose cotton terry or bamboo for softness. Rotate a few, wash on hot, and you will always have a clean one ready.
- Stretchy fabric covers: Not essential, but they add warmth if your mat feels cold. Choose snug, machine washable covers that still allow quick removal. Avoid anything too plush that traps moisture.
If your mat is wipe-clean and you have a good stash of muslins, you can skip a dedicated cover. Many parents place a muslin or small towel under baby’s bottom for a quick barrier. The key is speed. Anything that slows you down during a wriggly change will get old fast.
The core essentials for every change
Set up a small zone with everything at hand. You will use these items several times a day, so keep them within arm’s reach.
- Nappies in the right size: Store a day’s worth at the station, with the rest nearby.
- Wipes: Choose water-based or sensitive varieties. For newborn, cotton wool and warm water is gentle and reliable.
- Barrier cream: Use a pea-sized amount to protect from moisture. If your baby shows signs of irritation, switch to a simple, fragrance-free formula and consult your health visitor if it persists.
- Nappy bags: Scented or unscented, they help contain odours before you get to the main bin.
- Hand sanitiser: Handy when you cannot get to the sink immediately.
- Muslin cloths: Useful under baby’s bottom, for dribbles, and quick wipe-ups.
- Spare outfit: One vest and one baby grow in the next drawer or basket. Blowouts happen when you least expect them.
Optional but useful:
- A small caddy or basket to group nappies, wipes, and cream. Grab-and-go for travel between rooms.
- A soft night light. It is easier on sleepy eyes during late-night changes and helps you see what you are doing without fully waking your baby.
- A silicone changing mat toy or clip-on rattle to distract older, wrigglier babies.
Comfort touches that really help
Changing is easier when your baby is warm and calm, and when you are comfortable too.
- Layer warmth: A pre-warmed muslin or a quick cuddle before laying baby down can prevent the cold-mat shock.
- Gentle airflow control: Keep the area draft-free; a chilly baby cries more, and you will rush through changes.
- Your seating: If you sit for longer changes or apply creams for a rash, supportive seating helps your back. A cosy option like a boucle nursing chair can pull double duty for feeds and changes in the same corner.
- Soothing sounds: A simple shushing noise or soft hum is often enough. No need for
gadgets unless you enjoy them.
Hygiene and safety, without fuss
Keeping things clean should be quick and routine.
- Wipe the mat after every change with a baby-safe disinfectant or warm soapy water. Dry it fully to prevent damp patches.
- Wash reusable liners and muslins at high temperature, separate from general laundry if soiled.
- Empty nappy bins daily. If you use standard bins, double-bag on hot days.
- Secure your mat on a solid surface, never leave baby unattended. If you are using a dresser, consider anti-tip straps for the furniture.
Storage that actually works
Aim for one-hand access. Open baskets, shallow drawers, and dividers keep everything visible.
- Top drawer or top basket: nappies, wipes, cream, liners. Second spot: spare outfit, muslins, bags.
- Lower shelf: extra wipe packs, bulk nappies, spare liners.
- Travel grab-bag: a mini pouch with 2 nappies, a slim wipes pack, a spare vest, and a nappy bag.
- Restock it after each outing.
If you are setting up the nursery from scratch, think about how the changing station fits with your other pieces. Choosing well-sized baby nursery furniture with stable surfaces and good storage can make daily routines smoother.
Are covers necessary for comfort and cleanliness?
Covers are not required for hygiene if your mat is wipe-clean and you use liners. They can be helpful if:
- Your baby startles on contact with a cool surface.
- You prefer a cosy texture, especially during night changes.
- You want a spare layer to catch small leaks while a liner is in the wash.
If you choose covers, have two or three in rotation. Wash on warm, avoid heavy fabric softeners that may irritate sensitive skin.
What to keep in your changing station
Here is a simple checklist you can copy:
- 10 to 12 nappies in current size
- 1 pack sensitive wipes or cotton wool with water
- 1 barrier cream
- 3 muslins or reusable liners
- 1 roll of nappy bags
- Hand sanitiser
- Spare vest and babygrow
- Night light nearby
- Optional: thermometer, nail scissors, saline and soft nasal aspirator for stuffy days
Keep bulky extras elsewhere to avoid clutter. The clearer your surface, the calmer each change feels.
When to restock and refresh
- Daily: refill nappies and muslins, check wipes.
- Twice weekly: wipe out baskets or drawers, rotate liners.
- Monthly: review sizes, babies grow fast, and retire anything too snug.
If you are still building your setup and want to see options in person, visiting baby shop near you, like our Wellingborough Showroom, me can help you try different mat shapes and storage ideas before you buy.
Final thoughts
You do not need a mountain of gear to create a calm, clean changing space. Start with a supportive changing mat, add liners you like, stock wipes, nappies, and a simple barrier cream, then keep a spare outfit close by. A tidy caddy, a gentle night light, and a comfortable chair round it out. Focus on safety, easy cleaning, and one-hand access. With that, you will be ready for every change, day and night, with less fuss and more cuddles.