First, some lessons learned from the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Give some thought to your changing table. Restoring an old dresser or reusing an adult piece of furniture with a flat top might seem like a good idea, but we recommend using a product specifically designed for diaper-changing that meets the industry safety standards.

This probably goes without saying but we want to say it anyway: Changing pads are not safe for your baby's sleep. If they fall asleep during a diaper change, transfer your baby to their crib or bassinet. Don't trust yourself alone to prevent falls; use the safety belt on the changing pad and use a pad with contoured sides if your baby is up on a dresser or changing table. Comfort: Having a supportive changing pad will make changes more comfortable for your child. We still recommend thinner portable or disposable changing mats when traveling or in a pinch, just not for everyday changes.

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Stability: Opt for a changing pad that has a safety belt and contoured sides to help keep your baby from rolling around, and use the belt every time. A non-skid bottom is also great for keeping the changing pad from sliding around on whatever surface it's placed on. We find many of the molded-foam changing pads to be somewhat naturally grippy. Some parents refer to the foam variety of changing pads as "silicone," but to our knowledge, there are no actual silicone changing pads. You can look for brands that are on the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association list of certified changing tables, meaning it's been validated by a reputable third party. This Delta Children changing table that has guardrails on all four sides is an example of a stand-alone changing station with safety features built in. Storkcraft and many other furniture brands sell dressers with removable changing tops, such as this Brookside 2 Drawer Changing Table.

Size: Most changing pads are roughly 32 inches long and 16 inches wide, but there are some small variations. If you're using a changing table or a changing-table tray on top of a dresser, it can be worth it to measure the space you have to work with to be sure the changing pad you're buying will fit. That said: Always keep a hand on your baby. Never leave a child unattended on a dressing table, even for a moment, and even if they are strapped.