Changing mat for a chest of drawers, a table, for going on a visit or to the clinic with your own hands. How to make a beautiful, comfortable changing mat, waterproof cloth and changing mat and bag?

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Newborn babies are changed several times throughout the day, this is due to changing diapers, changing clothes soiled during feeding and other factors. Before any walk, the child must be dressed; in winter you have to put on several layers of clothes, but in summer it is enough to wrap him in a light diaper or put on a vest. After returning from a walk, all manipulations are repeated, only their sequence is reversed. In other words, at first the baby has to be constantly changed. To make this procedure more convenient and comfortable for mother and child, today there are a lot of devices. An indispensable thing in this regard are changing tables. But to make them safe for a fragile child’s body, special devices will be required. Today we will learn how to sew a mattress for a changing table with our own hands.

What is a changing table

In order for a child to grow strong and healthy, gymnastics and manipulations aimed at cleansing the skin must be carried out regularly. In this case, a mattress for a changing table, which can be installed on almost any surface, is ideal. Such purchases are fully justified, since in small apartments, where young families often live, there is a catastrophic lack of free space. It is difficult to install a full-fledged chest of drawers or a gymnastics table. And the cost of furniture is high. The changing mattress can be placed anywhere and, if necessary, hidden altogether.

You can purchase special designs - pelenators, which are equipped with stands and pores that make the structure motionless. There are products that resemble linings for chests of drawers. Children's models of mattresses for a chest of drawers can take the form of a padded mat with a solid base. The bumpers are needed to prevent the baby from rolling off when the mother turns away to grab a clean diaper or clothes. They are placed parallel to the small body, slightly fixing the baby. The side of the head will not be superfluous, since with age babies begin to crawl and push off obstacles with their legs.

Materials from which baby changing mattresses are made

Any children's furniture and accessories must be made from natural, safe and high-quality materials. It is worth paying attention to the fact that most children's products must be certified. In addition, high demands are placed on raw materials, which must have high levels of hygiene in order for the product to be easy to care for. The place where the baby will be located must remain dry and clean even after a failed or untimely diaper change. In the production of changing mats for chests of drawers, a variety of materials are used.

Mattresses using oilcloth

When creating diapers, manufacturers use a special type of oilcloth that is easy to clean and completely safe for children's skin. This product is also used as a bathing mat. It is convenient to wash a child on it and there is no risk of scratching or scaring the baby with the cold ceramic coating of the bathtub. The surface of the product should not be sticky, which should be checked before making a purchase. Otherwise, allergic reactions may occur. Cheap designs should not be considered to avoid unwanted rashes.

Mattresses - pelenators using a special protective cover

If possible, preference should be given to models of mattresses for changing chests that can be used in special protective covers. The design is easy to use, and if necessary, the cover can be removed and washed, which is important when you have a newborn. When using baby towels as a layer between the mattress and the baby, Velcro located on the cover is used to secure the terry product. Only the towel will be changed, and not the entire cover. High level of hygiene.

Models using Skylon

Technologies do not stand still, so every year there are more and more models of mattresses for changing chests. To furnish children's rooms, not only natural but also modern materials are used, one of which is skylon. It is a type of filler that is placed in a special film shell, which is the outer layer of the diaper. It is characterized by a high elasticity index and the ability to quickly restore its original shape. Regular jumping on such a rug will not damage the integrity of the shell and will not lead to sagging of the filler. The cover is washable, and the mattress can be inherited.

Mattresses using polyester foam

When using polyester foam, the service life of pelenators increases significantly. The material is tolerant of regular loads and is able to quickly return to its original shape. Polyester foam is used in the production of orthopedic mattresses and pillows of the same series. Insects avoid such material, as do dust mites.

Rubber changing mat

If all the accompanying conditions are present in the nursery, you can change the diaper in the crib. When traveling, changing a diaper can be a major task. You can take a changing mat in the car if you are planning a long trip. However, in case of a flight, it is unreasonable to take such a large item with you. For long trips, mobile rubber changing mats are used. The design is inflatable, so before each use it must be checked for punctures. If you don’t have a spare cover, you can use a spare tire at home, taken from the changing table. Cotton towel covers that are attached with Velcro are perfect for this.

Master class on sewing a practical accessory

To work, you will need thick cotton fabric, padding in the form of padding polyester or holofiber, cotton ribbon or cord, threads of a suitable color, paper, chalk, pencil.

• Draw a 50x70cm rectangle on a piece of paper. Place the resulting template on the wrong side of the fabric folded in half, trace it with chalk or a piece of soap. Open out the pieces, leaving an allowance of 1.5 cm.
• Sew the pieces together, leaving an open area on one side. Turn the product inside out and insert the filler inside in several folds. Quilt the base of the mattress, first applying a simple geometric pattern. Sew up the open area.
• To make the sides, cut out two 70x30 cm rectangles and one 50x30 cm rectangle. Sew each of them, connecting the long sides in pairs. On short ones, make drawstrings, insert ribbons into them, tighten them in one of the two. Insert the filler, forming a roll, tighten the tape.
• On each of the three sides of the mattress for the changing table, sew two rings of elastic braid for attaching the bolsters. Thread them through the sewn fasteners.

A comfortable mattress for the changing table is ready. Don't forget to cover the top with an absorbent diaper before use. This will help in case of surprises and preserve the beauty of the product.

Features of changing mattresses

A changing mattress is a simple and at the same time irreplaceable thing in a family with a small child. With its help, you can soften the space reserved for changing clothes and other procedures. The top layer pleasantly warms the baby's skin, it is soft and does not get wet. There are several portable structures.

Kinds

1. The design is made in the form of a bag-mat. When going on a visit or another trip to the clinic, this thing is irreplaceable. When unfolded, it is a small rug with no sides. When folded, it looks like a small-sized bag that fits comfortably on the shoulder. There is only one drawback: in order to open the bag, you must first lay out all the contents. The advantages include simplicity of design, the ability to create a stylish accessory, and spaciousness.
2. Located on a metal changing table. It is a wide board on strong legs. The structure is folded according to the principle of an ironing board. There are models on wheels, which are small tables. The clamps will not allow the table to move spontaneously. Not the most stable, however, a fully mobile version of my mother's assistant.
3. Changing boards are not in demand. They became an alternative to chests of drawers and tables, but structurally they turned out to be bulky and clumsy. Presented in the form of a mattress located on a rigid base. There are folding versions of changing tables, which are convenient, high cost, but also take up half the space of conventional models. Some boards are equipped with recesses that allow you to place the structure on the sides of the bathtub. If you have special fastenings, you can attach it to the sides of the baby crib. Can be installed on almost any surface.
4. Taritserka. This type of design is considered the simplest. It is a pad on a soft base that resembles a small mat. The base can be semi-flexible or flexible. Models can be inflatable. Mobile, which allows you to take the structures on the road. The coating is practical and waterproof. Preference should be given to models with sides, as they are safer. Installs on any rigid base.

Materials and colors

The degree of safety of the materials used plays an important role when choosing furniture and components for a children's room. The same rule applies to swaddling pens. External upholstery and fillings must be made of safe and hypoallergenic materials. They should be easy to care for, easy to clean and, if possible, washable. This will allow you to monitor the hygiene of the newborn. The outer covering is oilcloth or a special film. This coating is easy to care for by simply wiping with a damp cloth after each use.

This type of mattress can also be used during bathing. Expensive models are equipped with additional protective covers of a replaceable type, which can be removed and washed if necessary. The mattress cover is equipped with Velcro, which secures terry products. After the next procedure, the replacement diaper is washed, which means there is no need to change the main cover every day.

The range of fillings for changing mats on chests of drawers is wide, but the following materials are often used:

1. For active parents who do not sit still and are used to traveling in different ways, a rubber changing mat will become an indispensable attribute. The material is elastic, which allows you to roll or twist the mattress and place it compactly in the luggage compartment. For greater convenience, it is recommended to use removable covers.
2. Polyester foam can be used as a filler. It is also used as a raw material in the manufacture of products with orthopedic properties. The high service life and environmental friendliness justify the high cost of the product.
3. Skylon is a new product among fillers. Able to quickly restore the surface due to elasticity and elasticity. Children's mattresses will not lose their original qualities over time and will retain their original appearance for many years.

The color range of finished products is wide. In addition to traditional blue and pink shades, you can also give preference to bright pictures from famous cartoons. There is an opportunity to choose a mattress to match the color of the furniture set that was purchased earlier. Those who wish not to highlight the mattress should give preference to pastel colors, which can suit both girls and boys.

Dimensions

Often, when choosing the size of a future changing mat, parents are guided by the dimensions of the surface on which the product will be installed and then used. In advance, many people buy special tables and chests of drawers with drawers, which they equip for changing surfaces. If there is no wide surface, the size of the mattress should be selected smaller, since you will need space for creams, napkins and packaging with diapers.

Stationary mattresses have dimensions of 50x65 cm and 65x60 cm, which will allow you to choose a model for any changing table. Due to their small size, the products are often taken on trips. Young parents will receive the greatest benefit from a changing mattress in the first year of the baby’s life, when the child cannot yet move properly. The height of babies under one year old rarely exceeds 80 cm, which is the acceptable length of the product. If you plan to use the structure longer, then you should think about a larger model.

Rubber changing mat

If we are talking about traveling in a car or train, you can use a rubber mat like Huggies Little Swimmers as a waterproof changing pad (which can be placed on a soft car seat or a couch in a carriage). Advantages: durable, non-slip, hygienic, waterproof. The mat folds into a compact, waterproof package. Weighs about 240-250 grams. As your baby gets older, it can be used for sitting on the floor and sand at the beach, getting out of the bathroom, and going to the pool.

Intex Bady Changing Mat is soft, waterproof, with raised sides and a non-slip bottom surface.

Another hiking option could be an inflatable PVC mattress like Intex Bady Changing Mat (48422). When deflated, it takes up minimal space. Supplied with a hand pump, a set of patches and glue. Soft, waterproof, with raised sides and a non-slip bottom surface. Great idea for airplane travel.

How to choose

When purchasing any furniture or accessories for a small child, parents should approach the choice with all responsibility. In order to make the right choice in favor of the changing mattress model you like, you should adhere to the following recommendations:

1. It is much more pleasant and warmer for the baby to be on a soft surface. The oilcloth base is unpleasantly cold and will cause anxiety in the child. The issue of purchasing a quality product should be approached in advance. Models based on mixed fibers, which are not only pleasant to the touch, but can also be washed automatically, are in great demand.
2. The mattress must have a strong and solid base. The fabric should not slide on the surface of the furniture. When you first try to crawl, your baby may fall off the dresser.
3. The poor quality of the product is indicated by the unpleasant odor emanating from the material. You should refuse such a purchase. Otherwise, your child may experience rashes and other allergic reactions.
4. Purchases must be made from trusted suppliers. If possible, it is better to order the design from the manufacturer. Accompanying documentation is welcome.

Summing up

Regardless of whether the changing mat is purchased or made by yourself, it (as a baby product) must meet high standards.

1. It is better to give preference to models with side sides and a headboard. This will protect the baby from rolling and accidental injuries.
2. Light-colored options look elegant at first, but they are more easily soiled. Children's products with drawings retain their presentable appearance much longer.
3. Filling materials and lining must be hypoallergenic, environmentally friendly, and hygienic.
4. Waterproof, removable covers or membrane diapers with Velcro are the key to baby's comfort and a practical approach for parents.
5. This purchase should be made only from trusted manufacturers. Products must have a quality certificate.
6. If we are talking about purchasing a mattress for a specific surface, its dimensions should be ideally selected in accordance with the parameters of the changing chest or table.
7. Changing boards that are attached to the crib must have reliable fastenings.
8. The baby grows quite quickly, so a mattress that is too small is not very practical.
9. It is worth taking time to search for the appropriate model and read user reviews about this or that chosen option.

Regardless of whether the changing mat is purchased or made by yourself, it must meet high standards.

How to make your own changing mattress

Not every young family can afford to purchase a high-quality and expensive changing table. This raises the question: is it possible to make a changing mattress yourself? You can also purchase a product that has been previously used, but not every mother will agree to this, so some decide to make their own mattress for the changing table. To do this you will need fabric, filling and simple patterns that can be found on the Internet. You can use an old blanket for a future mattress.

If a child has a tendency to exhibit allergic reactions, then preference should be given to natural and undyed fabric (no pattern). You can use chintz, calico, flannel or cotton. Before starting the upcoming manipulations, you should understand the following points:

• sheathing and filler material;
• thickness of the future product;
• design form;
• mattress dimensions.

Recommendations for making a mattress

When making your own changing mattress, there are many factors to consider. Basic:

• the size should be taken with reserve, since using a small product is inconvenient;
• if possible, care should be taken to ensure the presence of a headboard and sides;
• the material for the surface should be such that it does not get wet and is easy to clean;
• The materials used are hypoallergenic, environmentally friendly and of high quality.

What you need for work

It’s easier to sew a tapitzerka, but for this you will need:

1. Velcro tape or just Velcro.
2. Lightning. If you cannot purchase a product of the required length, you can use two smaller products. They will open towards the ends from the middle.
3. Filler. Polyurethane foam 2 cm thick. Sold in any specialized store and other outlets, including the market.
4. Fabric used for outer covering. You should also take care of sewing several replacement covers or diapers. Calico, satin, jacquard or cotton are suitable as a base. For the covers you will need waterproof material. Velcro is required to attach the covers to the changing mat.

Making a mattress

It is not difficult to sew a mattress for a changing chest yourself, provided that you have sewing skills. After making the necessary calculations, add a few centimeters to the fabric:

• seam allowances;
• thickness absorbed by the filler.

When creating a square or rectangular model, calculations are made on paper, and the markings are applied directly to the fabric using soap or a pencil. When making a mattress of a non-standard shape, a pattern is made on paper, taking into account allowances and seams.

Sequencing:

1. Provided that natural fabrics are used, before cutting, the material is wetted in water at the temperature at which the subsequent wash is planned. If the recommendation is not followed, after the first wash the fabric will shrink, which will make subsequent use of the finished product impossible.
2. Open it up. It is preferable to use a single piece of folded fabric when cutting square and rectangular mattresses. It is allowed to manufacture two separate elements, provided that the mattress is designed with a non-standard cut. In this case, the mattress will be double-sided, without causing any discomfort to the baby.
3. The fabric is folded in half, with the front part facing inward. Bottom and side cuts are leveled. Both parts can be folded facing each other and thus align the cuts. Afterwards, the material is swept away or chipped depending on the chosen shape.
4. The side seam is sewn down. The line will go from the fold down. Having reached the corner, a 90° turn is made, after which a short stitch is made along the bottom edge with a bartack. The second side seam is done the same way. The zipper will be threaded through the unsewn hole in the bottom stitching.
5. The lower sections are stitched separately, while the side sections will be processed together.
6. The corners are turned at 45°, calculating the height of the filler used. This way, the corners will look neater.
7. The zipper is sewn in.
8. If necessary, spare covers of the same size are made. Velcro is on the reverse side.
9. Attach Velcro in pre-designed places.
10. When making a roller, fill it with holofiber and stitch it.
11. There are several ways to attach the roller to the surface of the product.

DIY changing mat bag

Sewing a changing mat that can be folded into a bright and beautiful handbag is not difficult. The pockets will accommodate spare diapers, wipes, and baby's clothing items.

• The handbag can be sewn using the now popular patchwork technique. Or use plain cotton fabric to make it
• Filling – batting or padding polyester (size 50 by 80 cm)
• Dimensions of the main fabric – 54 by 84 cm
• All parts are stitched along the edges. The bag is turned inside out and quilted
• In addition to the handbag, you can sew a pillow for the baby’s head
• Pockets are the curved edges of a strip, the width of which is 10 cm. The strip is divided into 4 parts

Changing bag

Edge processing

Pocket options Finished product

Using patchwork technique

Popular models

There are many accessories for changing; both domestic and foreign manufacturers can offer practical models. The difference lies in the cost and quality of the raw materials used in production.

1. Among the domestic manufacturers, models from Fairy or Globex should be noted. The raw materials used are high quality cotton and foam rubber, which provides a soft and comfortable place for changing the baby. High sides provide additional safety. The cost is lower than their foreign counterparts, making models from these manufacturers attractive to most young families.
2. Among Polish manufacturers, special attention should be paid to Ceba and Disney. A distinctive feature is the presence of huge models.
3. The Latvian brand Troll has not moved far from its Polish competitor. The models are distinguished by the waterproofness of the upper layers and the lightness of their structures.
4. Among German manufacturers, Geuther is considered the undisputed leader. The brand uses high-quality foam rubber as a base.
5. BebeJou is a European brand that originates from the Netherlands. The use of modern technologies and polyester foam have made the company's products in demand all over the world. The cost is justified by the quality of the product.

Care and maintenance

A changing mattress should be pleasant to the touch, comfortable, practical and safe. The product should not slide off the surface of the chest of drawers or tables. It is preferable to choose models with sides. The top layer should be easy to clean and not allow liquid to accumulate. After each use, it is a good idea to wipe the surface with a damp cloth or towel. If there is a removable fabric cover, the spare tire should be used immediately after soiling or every day until the child reaches one year of age. Afterwards, if necessary, the cover is changed only after contamination or long-term non-use. Most materials can be washed at 40°C in automatic mode. It is not recommended to use bleaches, like any other chemically active substances.

Video material

You will get a safe, soft mattress if you do everything right. It will be comfortable for mother and child. As you can see, no complex techniques are used here - everything is extremely simple and clear. Any young mother can cope with such a simple, interesting job if she has a great desire and imagination.

Reviews

Marina: my daughter is already six months old, we use it every day and take it on the road. The mattress is comfortable and practical. The removable cover is machine washable without any consequences. I bought it in a company store and did not regret it.

Anastasia: I took the mattress from my hands and it’s okay. Washed, washed and as good as new. It came in handy right away, as the baby loves to relieve himself without a diaper.

Katya: I bought a mattress from a domestic manufacturer in a store. Looks good. The colors are bright and have not faded over time, which is nice. The material does not come off, the cover is washed daily.

Olga: I bought a mattress in the children's section of the supermarket. Did not provide for the need for spare covers or pads. I had to sew it myself.