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. 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.

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. 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. Some parents refer to the foam variety of changing pads as "silicone," but to our knowledge, there are no actual silicone changing pads.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.

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.

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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.