Diaper Pads for your bundle of joy slash pooping-machine can help you buckle up for every challenging full-time nappy change.
In this article, we’ve rounded up a complete guide and review of why Baby Changing Pads are what every parent needs.
We’ll be giving you a quick overview about:
- What Changing pads are and why they’re better
- Features to look for before buying
- 10 of the Best Baby Changing Pads and Review
- And many more…
A stink to high heaven is never a sweet experience.
Let’s take a look at our options.
- 1 – Summer Contoured Changing Pad
- 2 – Munchkin Secure Grip Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad
- 3 – Baby Portable Changing Pad, Diaper Bag, Travel Mat Station
- 4 – Rocinha 100 Pack Disposable Changing Pads
- 5 – BlueSnail Bamboo Quilted Thicker Waterproof Changing Pad Liners
- 6 – Munchkin Waterproof Changing Pad Liners
- 7 – Baby | Fully Padded for Baby’s | Foldable Large Waterproof Mat
- 8 – Waterproof Diaper Changing Mat for Girls Boys Newborn – Multi-Function Storage Bag
- 9 – Lekebaby Portable Diaper Changing Pad Built-in Head Cushion
- 10 – Skip Hop Changing Pad
- Buyers Guide: How To Choose The Right Baby Changing Pad?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Our Analysis, Comparisons & Test Results
- Our Final Verdict: Best Baby Changing Pad
- Conclusion: Best Baby Changing Pads
Why A Changing Pad is an essential?
you can change your baby by laying him down on a towel on a table, but by time, you realize that this is not the ideal solution!
That’s why in this post I’m sharing with you what you why you must have a changing pad in your house..
Very soft and with small rounded edges, the changing pad is the best solution at the time of the change to take care of the baby comfortably.
Pretty cool, right?
A changing pad is great because it essentially can turn any surface into a changing table. woo-hoo!
Your baby often has to be on it, to be changed, dressed, or after bathing: it must be comfortable for the baby to feel good.
It repurposes any dresser drawer you might have to work as a table…
You can move the pad from one surface to another and with a relatively lightweight product.
That said..
Below, we are reviewing the 5 best baby changing pads in the market to help you in choosing what suits you and your little one:
Let’s check them out Mommies and Daddies..
1 – Summer Contoured Changing Pad
Best Contoured Changing Pad
Bottom Line: This contoured pad is comfortable and keeps the baby secured while doing diaper changes.
Pros
Waterproof
Standard sizing and fits most changing tables
Safety Belt
Durable cushion
Cons
Not slip-proof on the bottom
Recommended to use pad cover to avoid staining
The Summer Contoured Changing Pad is durable, soft, and easy to transfer between rooms at home.
For waterproofing, it contains a durable quilted vinyl that is 100% waterproof…
Keep in mind mommy…
A pad cover helps to prevent staining, keep it clean, and make it durable…
Plus..
Their size makes it stand up to wiggling babies.
Should you decide that you want to use a changing table, this changing pad is also made to fit most standard sizes of changing tables.
Oh, and most of all…
There is even a safety belt to keep babies in place. Some parents think it is unnecessary, but the security strap can be a lifesaver.
In the event your baby manages to flip themselves over, there is a side that can protect your child!
This is just a way to ensure that your baby is safe whenever using it…
2 – Munchkin Secure Grip Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad
Best Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad
Bottom Line: This lightweight changing pad is easy to use inside the house
Pros
Lightweight
Well-padded
Fits as a changing table pad
Includes safety belt
Cons
White lining shows stains
Slightly smaller size
The Munchkin is a great middle of the ground brand for nursery accessories.
Their changing pad is light..
Then again,
One of the added advantages to a changing pad is that it is portable for use throughout the house.
Check out the size Mommy…
It has dimensions slightly smaller and taller than the Summer Contour Changing Pad. The pad measures 16” by 31” by 4.2” which fits a tabletop.
What’s more?
It has four “Xtra GripTM” safety strips at the bottom to help keep from sliding.
The added height of the pad from their polyurethane foam gives it additional cushioning and feels very nice.
This also has a waterproof outer layer for easy cleanup.
Well, that said…
It stains easily and the stark white color makes them very visible even after cleaning up.
The best advice I can give on this is to use a protective cover…
The good news is that it comes with a safety strap for extra security when changing diapers…
Believe me… This works like magic every time.
3 – Baby Portable Changing Pad, Diaper Bag, Travel Mat Station
Best Baby Portable Changing Pad
Bottom Line: High-quality, durable, and portable changing pad. it is great for traveling too
Pros
Velcro strap to help secure pad for added safety
25” by 11.5” great compact size
Folds up thin for easy travel
Machine-washable
Waterproof lining wicks water off easily
Cons
On the smaller side
No added pockets
Very simple design
This portable changing pad by Comfy Cubs has been our favorite, because of how simple and cute it is.
This brand comes in a variety of designs and colors to hide and prevent staining.
Furthermore,
On the outside, it has a waterproof lining for easy cleanup, and foam padding for comfort.
Small, light, and easy to use…
Unfolded, it rolls out to 25” by 11.5” with a 0.5” thickness. Folded up, it collapses to about a foot long, and 6” wide, and very thin.
At this point, you might be asking, whether your baby will be safe when using it!
Well, It holds securely with a velcro strap..
It holds your little roller well in case he tried to escape while doing diaper change.. Yup, they do try to escape! Believe me! I’ve been there..
The best part?
The water wicks off the surface easily. But the outside material is like a canvas fabric, which sometimes challenging to clean…
However, you can throw it in the washing machine if we think the mess will stain.
That said Mommy…
It is on the small side. If you think your baby has a slightly larger splash zone, you may want to opt for a bigger mat.
This is a changing pad that gets the job done. For these reasons, this has been the best portable changing pad we have tried.
4 – Rocinha 100 Pack Disposable Changing Pads
Best Disposable Protector Mat
Bottom Line These are the best portable changing pad if you are on the go or outside of your home – most moms love this on-the-go design.
Pros
Thin and portable design, making them great for travel
Large sized when unfolded (16” by 13”)
Very absorbent, and almost no leaking
Cons
Disposable, and not environmentally friendly
Contains superabsorbent polymer (SAPs)
At home, sometimes using a liner helps with adding to the longevity of a changing pad…
Yet, these are not a substitute for a cushioned changing pad…
Most importantly,
These changing pads have superabsorbent polymer (SAPs) manufactured into them so they absorb a lot of liquid quickly.
This can be a con for some parents that are trying to avoid plastic and chemicals in their baby products.
Plus…
They have a non-woven cover, with pulp fabric to absorb the mess. And a polyethylene backing to prevent leaks through to any surface.
They unfold to be 16” by 13”, which is pretty wide, making them the best travel changing pad to keep in your diaper bag because it covers a large surface.
Although they are not the best for the planet, they do work well in a pinch and get the job done.
5 – BlueSnail Bamboo Quilted Thicker Waterproof Changing Pad Liners
Best Thicker Changing Pad
Bottom Line: These Changing Pad Liners are a great alternative
Pros
Good absorbency level
Free of chemicals like BPA, phthalates, latex, and lead
Soft and gentle on the baby’s skin
Cons
Rectangular shape
Smaller size
Velcro can make it difficult to throw when thrown in the wash
Thicker material takes up space when rolled up
Unlike disposable changing pad liners, these are far more environmentally friendly.
Like most reusable products, they are easy to wash.
With that being said Mommy…
These changing pads also maintain good absorbency through washing. They are 80% rayon from bamboo and 20% polyester.
Size always matters!
These pads measure 14” by 28”, which is smaller than your regular changing pad liner, and are Free of BPA, phthalates, latex, and lead.
It is truly a worry-free product…
The pad is foldable and portable in your diaper bag, but they do not roll up as thinly as disposable ones.
Here’s the key,
Their absorbent layer is very effective for keeping your changing pad dry. Even after several diaper changes, the pad holds up.
You will love how soft they are!
6 – Munchkin Waterproof Changing Pad Liners
Best Changing Pad Lines
Bottom Line: They are a cost-effective option for most parents
Pros
Very simple and multi-purpose
Cost-effective
100% polyester with a polyurethane coating
Cons
Possibly too narrow for some babies
Do not wash on hot
These Munchkin Waterproof Changing Pad Liners do not have any of the added bells and whistles some of these other changing pad liners have.
We included these because we love the price and how simple they are for any parent out there.
Let’s start by looking at the main features:
These liners unfold out to be 22.75” by 11.5” and are more narrow than any of the other liners.
They are 100% polyester with a polyurethane coating. This prevents leaking from the bottom.
But you gotta watch out here, Mommy…
Since they have a plastic lining, we recommend washing in cold settings to extend their life.
Because of their narrow sizing, they work for a multitude of other situations besides changing pads.
7 – Baby | Fully Padded for Baby’s | Foldable Large Waterproof Mat
Best Large Travel Changing Pad
Bottom Line: This changing pad is lightweight, portable, and perfect for travel
Pros
Velcro strap to help secure pad
27” by 12”, unfolds to be a larger size and is thin
Extra padding for added comfort
Machine-washable for easy cleaning
Waterproof lining wicks water off easily
Cons
No added pockets
It may still be too narrow for some parents
Simple design
So if your big issue with portable changing pads is the size, look no further!
This one by MIKILIFE unfolds to 27” by 12” and is just as simple to use as the Comfy Cubs brand.
They have a similar waterproof lining and have slightly thicker padding. Which gives it a more comfortable feel than the Comfy Cubs
Perfect size…
It folds up to about half the length, and we find that it still folds fairly thin and is lightweight for travel.
Then again.. You will appreciate any changing pad with a velcro strap to help secure it.
Plus!
The colors and designs are well thought out for hiding stains and are very cute neutral colors.
8 – Waterproof Diaper Changing Mat for Girls Boys Newborn – Multi-Function Storage Bag
Best Large Portable Changing Pad
Bottom Line: This changing pad is multi-functional, comes in a large size, and travel friendly
Pros
Extra large, 25.5” by 31.5”
Quilted PVA vinyl and is waterproof on both sides
Comes with an envelope that is 5” by 6”
Cons
Folds up a little thick
Not machine-washable and has specific cleaning instructions
Can be too big for some babies
If you have a bigger bundle of joy, this is a great option for you..
You will love the color, design, and quilted pattern.
But it is huge!
This measures around 25.5” by 31.5” and is basically a blanket.
What you will appreciate is that it comes with an envelope about 5” by 6” made of the same quilted material for storage.
You fold it up and stuff it back in when finished…
Personally, this is not our preferred method, as it packs away a bit bulky. It is not padded, but it features PVA vinyl and is waterproof.
Extra care is needed Mommy..
As this pad is not machine-washable.
It is only recommended that you wash this with water or alcohol-free wipes.
9 – Lekebaby Portable Diaper Changing Pad Built-in Head Cushion
Best Built-in Head Cushioned Portable Changing Pad
Bottom Line: This changing pad is multi-functional, comes in a large size, and travel friendly
Pros
Straps to hold onto the stroller
Many pockets and storage space
Pinch buckle for added safety
Very large and wide
Cons
Not very thin, hard to carry around
Not much color variety
This Lekebaby Portable Diaper Changing Pad is useful to have around when you have a stroller.
We thought of this as the changing pad with all the bells and whistles attached.
Frankly, this did not work for me and my spouse..
We did not like the weight this pad added. But if you like carrying a stroller, this is a plus to have around.
This pad is quite big when unfolded. It spans 37.5” and 22” at its widest.
The changing pad itself is around 22” by 22” which is very generous.
What’s more?
It includes a mesh pocket and several zipper pockets to store things for your portable diaper changing station.
It has a pinch buckle to secure the folded pad together. And another strap to secure onto a stroller.
Something extra this product offers is a sewn-in “pillow.”
The waterproof lining works and keeps moisture from absorbing too much into the pad.
Above all Mommy…
it is machine washable to boot.
This includes a lot of features, but color choice is not one of them. Although, what is available is well thought out to avoid staining.
10 – Skip Hop Changing Pad
Best Entertaining Changing Pad
Bottom Line: This foam changing pad has a toy bar for your kid that makes the diaper change easy and fun for you and your baby as well
Pros
Has a soft foam pad
Stable
Does not absorb odors or liquids
Equip your baby with a seat belt
Cons
The baby may be uncomfortable
It may not work on every surface
A little more expensive
Slightly hard and cold
Some children tend to move around a lot and have no desire to be stripped and cleaned. So you need a way to distract them while you are doing what you have to do..
This is why Skip Hop was created…
So if you are struggling with your little mover, then this is the right choice for you!
It is designed for babies who do not like to be changed…
Take a closer look now,
It is equipped with a foldable toy bar, your child is then distracted by what is hanging above him and forgets what is going on around.
The toys are actually a sun and a mirror in the shape of a cloud.
Oh, and most of all…
This model can be cleaned easily. Its pale gray color may seem easy to stain, but it is far from it! Yep!
When it gets dirty, you just need to wipe a damp cloth where it needs to be cleaned and it will disappear immediately.
This is mainly due to the fact that it is made of padded foam.
Keep in mind Mommy…
This material is not the softest or the hottest. However, it is possible to add a towel under the baby’s head and back for more comfort.
The Skip Hop is also equipped with a safety strap to keep your baby in place, especially if you have to step away for a moment.
…and one more thing,
Its non-slip base and design make this product very stable. This makes it easier to change your little teeny popper’s diaper without having to put it back in place.
Why Trust Us?
Parenting can be a messy job… but it doesn’t have to be!
With so much going on during the day…
Parents should go for the options that make the diaper duty an easy thing to do…
That being said…
Here, at Newbabysmell.com, we try to make the parenting journey much more interesting for those who are looking for the experts’ opinions and recommendations..
As you can see Mommies and Daddies…
Buying the right changing pad is not a one-minute decision that you can easily take it..
That is why, in this complete guide, we focus on giving you a detailed review for each listed changing pad
Above all…
Not only we relied on our personal experience, but also we included the other parents’ feedback who already used these products…
With this in mind…
We included a detailed buyer’s guide to expand your knowledge about the right way to choose a changing pad that meets your needs
This is just a way to provide you with the best resources that guide you to the right purchase.
Buyers Guide: How To Choose The Right Baby Changing Pad?
So here is it mommies and daddies..
Before buying your changing pad, you should consider whether it will be used only at home or also for travel.
Indeed, baby changing pad criteria and models will be different.
A classic home changing pad will be more spacious and more often plastic.
On the contrary,
A travel one will be smaller, often foam, and will be foldable.
In both cases, it is essential to choose a changing pad that is large enough to have the necessary space when doing diaper changes.
Let’s now see what you should consider when choosing a changing pad for your little tiny pooper:
Wrap-Around Design
Most changing mats have a slightly curved shape so that the baby sits naturally on it, in the middle.
When making your choice, we recommend you choose one with sloping edges. This reduces the risk of falling, especially when using it on dresser tops.
This design offers one of the security features that all baby products should have.
That said…
Some come with security strap to give extra support for your little mover
Good Thickness
For disposable ones, consider a pad that is thick enough to handle messes and wide enough for the size of your baby.
How thick they roll up may also be a consideration, especially if you want to throw them in your diaper bag.
We recommend thicker or reusable ones to stay at home, so they are easy to clean.
Just throw them in the washer machine when you are done…
Some parents find that liners are thick enough to reuse many times and travel well.
Stability
This is mainly for a reusable changing pad rather than a disposable one.
Watch out Mommy…
You have to make sure that the furniture on which you are going to place the pad is stable and does not present any risk of tipping, like dresser tops.
If you have opted for a changing table, it is designed to accommodate a changing mat on top. But if you want to place it on top of another piece of furniture, check its stability.
Some baby dressers can be upgraded, though..
They offer an optional changing table to keep the mat in place so that it does not slip if Baby wriggles.
With this in mind,
The golden rule for the safety of your baby is to NEVER leave him alone on his changing mat.
At Home or Travel Friendly
Having a more cushioned changing pad and a travel-friendly version is all that you need to make changing your baby’s diaper so much easier.
Let’s say, for example…
For situations outside our home, a changing pad is very useful to get the mission done. After disinfecting the area, you just lay down a changing pad and get to work.
With the changing pad options, the back of the car can also be an emergency changing area! Yep!
…and it works fine!
In situations where you are traveling, you want one that is portable and flat, and even disposable. That is so you will not have to deal with carrying it around throughout the day.
Waterproofing
This is one of the most important factors to look for in the best changing pad options.
This specifically relates to thicker or foam pad. Some changing pads will include a waterproof cover for easy cleaning.
Honestly speaking Mommy..
Diaper changing is going to be a mess, and it is better to be preventative than to have to clean after the fact.
That is why you should look for one with 100% waterproof lining.
Plus!
Waterproof diaper changing helps to avoid mold and mildew on the pad itself as well…
It is very important to look for one that you could wipe down regularly.
Or for those types that made to easily throw into the washing machine every month for a deep clean.
Should We Use a Cover For The Changing Pad?
Quick answer: It depends…
Plastic changing mats have the particularity of sticking a little to a baby’s skin.
It may stick if you take your time while doing a diaper change, or if the baby sweats, especially in summer when it is hot.
With that being said Mommy…
The pad cover is essential to offer a little more comfort to your little one. (Read our full review here)
Neutral colors, funny or romantic prints..
The pad cover personalizes the mat and offers a little decorative touch, especially if it is placed on top of the changing table in the baby’s room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How to clean a changing pad?
For PVC changing pads, cleaning will be done by rubbing the surface with a sponge or terry towel. You can add pH-free soap or detergent to the water to disinfect the pad. You must then rinse it well. To clean a cotton or linen changing pad, you will put it in the washing machine at 30 or 40° C depending on the model. However, we recommend that you use a changing bag to save time and convenience.
Q2: How to protect a changing pad?
We recommend that you use changing pad covers. This will keep it clean and prevent stains and dirt before and after doing diaper changes. It is also easy to maintain. You just have to remove it and put it in the washing machine.
Q3: Is the changing table compulsory?
No, the changing table is not necessary with a changing pad. You can put your changing pad anywhere: on a table, on a dresser, on a bed, on a chest of drawers, or a bench… It is multi-use. The changing table nevertheless helps to convert any surface into a changing table.
Our Analysis, Comparisons & Test Results
Finally… here comes the final result…
All baby changing pads reviewed by Newbabysmell are safe to use for your little one
Thus, our comparison is about the main safety features most parents consider when buying a child car seat, which are:
- Water Resistance
- Easy to clean
- Durability
- Portability
Below, we lined up the 10 best baby changing pads on the same platform to give you a comparative analysis.
And here you go…
Water Resistance
Well, Mommy…
With all that being said and talked about..
The waterproofing option is what you should first consider when looking for a changing pad.
Accidents happen.. Especially with babies!
That’s why in this ultimate review, we considered and added it into our comparison
This will make choosing a suitable baby changing pad easy for you.
Let’s now see the results…
The Summer Infant, Munchkin, and Rocinha changing pads along with the Comfy Cubs travel mat station came up as the top scorer. Their design and material used made their waterproofing feature nothing but perfect.
BlueSnail, Skip Hop, and Mikilife fully padded changing mats came up at the second place in the list. Their surfaces were not waterproofed as expected
The Lekebaby and Baby Loovi changing pads were not waterproofed as they are supposed to be.
Unfortunately, the Munchkin Changing Pad Liners came down at the bottom of the list. The main reason is that they lose their waterproofing feature after many washes.
Easy to clean
The main purpose of getting a changing pad is to better handle the messes your baby makes.
Especially when your baby becomes more active..
The work will be harder for you
That’s why…
Getting a changing mat that is easy to clean is essential.
Below, we added the ease of cleaning to our comparison as well…
Let’s now see the results…
Clearly, The changing pads that have a surface that is easy to be wiped are the easiest to clean.
Summer Infant, Skip Hop, and Mikilife travel pad nailed the top in this section.
The Rocinha disposable pads are a one-time use unless extra care was taken while doing the diaper change.
The Munchkin liners were not easy to clean, since they stain easily.
The rest of the pads show average ease of cleaning result
Durability
Changing your baby’s diaper is not something you do once or twice a day!
It’s not surprising…
With your baby growing up so fast, make sure to get a durable changing pad to help you for a longer period..
When buying one, consider something worth the money you pay for..
Here is our comparison in regards to the durability feature for the 5 changing pads we reviewed today
Let’s now see the results…
As you can see, The changing pads that were easy to clean are also durable..
That again…
The disposable ones are at the bottom of the list because they are one-time use and you don’t even have to wash them.
Portability
Using changing pads while traveling or being out of the house is helpful.
Make sure to consider the mobility option when buying one!
This makes handling the messes easier anywhere outside the house.
Since this is an important thing to look for in a baby changing mat, we included it in our comparison
Let’s now see the results…
Based on our comparison,
The changing pads that are light in weight and small in size came up at the top of the list. Which we consider perfect for traveling as well.
However, some types of changing pads have perfect portability only inside the house.
Our Final Verdict: Best Baby Changing Pad
Almost done…
It’s time for you to stop and check out the final results.
We have all 10 baby changing pads lined up here based on their performance
All you have to do at the moment is to pick the one that best suits you and your little one..
So the final choice will rely upon your exact needs, preference, and budget…
Let’s check them out Mommies and Daddies…
| Product | Rating out of 5 |
| Summer Contoured Changing Pad | ⭐ 4.0 |
| Baby | Fully Padded for Baby’s | Foldable Large Waterproof Mat | ⭐ 4.0 |
| Baby Portable Changing Pad, Diaper Bag, Travel Mat Station | ⭐ 4.0 |
| Skip Hop Changing Pad | ⭐ 3.75 |
| Munchkin Secure Grip Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad | ⭐ 3.5 |
| Rocinha 100 Pack Disposable Changing Pads | ⭐ 3.25 |
| BlueSnail Bamboo Quilted Thicker Waterproof Changing Pad Liners | ⭐ 3.25 |
| Waterproof Diaper Changing Mat for Girls Boys Newborn – Multi-Function | ⭐ 3.0 |
| Lekebaby Portable Diaper Changing Pad Built-in Head Cushion | ⭐ 3.0 |
| Munchkin Waterproof Changing Pad Liners | ⭐ 3.0 |
Conclusion: Best Baby Changing Pads
And, hurrah, we’re finished and ready to present the final thoughts…
We presented 10 of the best changing pads and compared them based on their performance to help you in your buying decision…
Keep in mind, though, that you should always choose and narrow your options based on your preference and needs..
Finally..
It is time to take a look at our editors’ choice, the best value, and top pick options:
- The Editors’ Choice goes to: Summer Contoured Changing Pad
- The Best Value goes to: Skip Hop Changing Pad
- The Top Pick goes to: Baby Portable Changing Pad, Diaper Bag, Travel Mat Station