(Various Brands) Portable/Travel Changing Pads/Mat Hygiene Suitable for stages: 0 - 3 Months, 3 - 6 Months, 6 - 12 Months, 12 - 18 Months
An essential item for changing newborns to 12-month-olds when out and about. Keep one handy in your nappy bag. Used for nappy and clothes changing time. When you are done, wipe down, fold and go.
What to look for:
Design:
- Easy to unfold and lay flat with one hand
- Padded surface mat which will keep baby comfortable even on hard surfaces
- Size large enough to use until your baby no longer needs to lay down for change time
- Easy to fold up and fasten with one hand
- Compact enough to fit into your nappy/everyday bag
- Some have pockets to store wipes, change cream, nappies etc. If these items are easily accessible from your nappy bag, consider if you need the pockets. Consider what you would actually want to store in the pockets of the mat/pad.
Materials:
- Easy to wipe down, waterproof, and durable surface
- Consider if you need some absorbent disposable or reusable options as alternatives for times when extra hygiene precautions are needed such as during gastric illness or after the oral Rotavirus vaccine.
- If you choose a non-waterproof washable option, buy 2 so you always have a spare while the other is being washed.
What to avoid:
- Avoid if there is a strong smell to the product as it may indicate it is made with poor quality materials and chemicals
- A flimsy change surface material will get holes and become unhygienic over time and require replacement
- Fiddly clasps/closure mechanism
- Bulky features such as extra pockets that you won't use and will just add weight to your baby bag
Finding a travel mat that is easy to use and your baby is comfortable on, will be well worth your while - it will get used over and over again. If find one you love, or have any additional tips, let others know by pegging this item then adding a review.
