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As I prepared for the arrival of my child, I found myself drowning in a sea of information about what I might need. Like many expecting mothers, I turned to Google and asked seasoned friends for advice. My sister shared a detailed spreadsheet of “must-have” baby items that we scrutinized like it held the secrets of the universe. But as I delved deeper, I started to question whether these so-called essentials were simply clever marketing tactics aimed at emptying our wallets.
So, what could I really do without? After some reflection, I identified one item that stood out as a complete waste: the changing table.
Opting against a changing table was an easy decision due to our limited space. I had seen many nurseries use dressers as changing stations, and fitting both a dresser and a changing table in my child’s small room was impossible. Instead, we placed a changing pad on top of a dresser, which served us well until we transitioned to potty training. My sister, who welcomed her baby on the same day (what a coincidence!), took it further and used just a portable changing pad for her daughter. We managed perfectly fine without the extra furniture. Yet, if you consult any nursery setup guide, you’ll be bombarded with links to purchase changing tables.
While walking through New York City, I often notice discarded changing tables left on the curb. In local Buy Nothing Groups, families post about their unwanted changing tables, hoping someone will take them—often to no avail. It’s understandable that many are reluctant to accept secondhand furniture due to safety concerns, and it’s likely that others shy away from items that may have been soiled. Consequently, these changing tables end up in landfills.
Beyond the hesitation to reuse, what causes so many changing tables to be thrown away? Their design typically doesn’t allow for repurposing once diaper days are over. Attempting to use them for book storage often results in wasted space due to poor shelf spacing. While some Pinterest hacks suggest turning changing tables into bar carts or plant stands, the quality of most changing tables leaves much to be desired. Many are constructed from cheap materials, such as medium-density fiberboard (MDF), which is less durable and may contain harmful substances like formaldehyde. The transformations that look appealing on Instagram often fall short in real life.
You might think, “So what? My changing table was only about $100.” However, as old-growth forests are decimated to meet our demand for disposable furniture, and with the U.S. sending 12.2 million tons of furniture to landfills annually, it’s clear that investing in items with little longevity doesn’t make sense. So, to new moms reading this: cross that changing table off your registry. I can almost promise you won’t miss it.
For more insights on preparing for motherhood, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and consider exploring our other blog posts for tips on home insemination. If you’re interested in at-home fertility solutions, Make A Mom offers a comprehensive guide.
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In summary, many baby products marketed as essentials, such as changing tables, may not be necessary after all. By focusing on what truly serves your needs, you can save money and reduce waste.