Setting up a changing table as a new mom can feel overwhelming. You scroll TikTok, read every “baby must-have” list, ask friends, and still — you’re left guessing what you’ll really use. I’ve been there, and now that I’m through those early diaper days, I’m sharing my honest list of changing table essentials. These are the items that made diaper duty smoother, cleaner, and even a little enjoyable.
Whether you’re expecting your first baby, building a baby registry, or knee-deep in the newborn phase, here’s what I actually used (and what I’d buy again in a heartbeat).
1. A Soft Changing Pad
While sleek foam pads are popular, I chose a traditional fabric-covered changing pad. Why? Because I didn’t want to place my newborn on a cold, hard surface. A soft, cozy pad felt more like her crib or Dock-A-Tot — and comfort matters during those 3 a.m. changes.
2. Boppy Changing Pad Liners
An absolute changing table must-have. These washable liners saved me from constantly swapping out the cover after surprise pees or blowouts. We had 6 on rotation and they were game-changers.
3. Diapers (Nappies) (An obvious of the changing table essentials)
We started with Huggies Gold in South Africa and added Coterie around 3 months — which changed everything. Coterie diapers are ultra-absorbent and kept her dry through the night. Yes, they’re pricey, but for 6+ hours of sleep? Worth it.
In South Africa: Huggies Gold by day, Coterie by night.
In the U.S.: Millie Moon would be my go-to for daytime.
4. Pampers Pure Wipes
Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and gentle. We’ve used Pampers Pure from day one. I’ve heard great things about Coterie wipes too — especially because they’re larger (fewer wipes per change = win).
5. Mustela Micellar Water
A hidden gem for messy diaper situations. One pump on a wipe gets baby super clean and smelling fresh. The scent is light and lovely.
6. Pipette Diaper Rash Cream
This diaper cream checks all the boxes: clean ingredients, zinc oxide, and no rashes. We apply it nightly before bed and haven’t looked back.
7. Bumco Baby Bum Brush
If you hate diaper cream on your hands (hi, me), this silicone applicator is your new best friend. It’s especially helpful in those early newborn weeks.
8. Pipette Baby Balm
A clean alternative to Aquaphor — amazing for dry skin, especially baby’s cheeks. A bit greasy but incredibly effective.
9. Noodle & Boo Super Soft Lotion
This has been my go-to baby lotion. It smells divine, absorbs quickly, and is gentle on sensitive skin. It’s the one I keep repurchasing.
10. Noodle & Boo Baby Balm
A rich, buttery balm we use at night after baths. Helps with any dry patches and smells heavenly.
11. Noodle & Boo Hair Polish
Great for taming post-nap bedhead and making baby smell salon-fresh. One of those small luxuries I love.
12. NoseFrida Snot Sucker
If you only buy one nose tool, make it this one. It’s far superior (and less terrifying) than the bulb syringe. Just trust me.
13. Boogie Wipes
Essential for sick days or sniffles. Gentle, soothing, and way better than using dry tissues on baby skin.
14. Frida Baby 3-in-1 Nose, Nail + Ear Picker
Odd-looking but wildly effective. It reaches places your fingers can’t — and trust me, you’ll use it more than you think.
15. Frida Baby Electric Nail Buffer
Newborn nails are tiny and terrifying to trim. This buffer was a lifesaver in preventing any accidental nicks.
16. Frida Baby Nail Clippers
The built-in spyhole makes it easy to see what you’re clipping. We use it multiple times a week without any stress.
17. Natemia Hair Brush Set
The soft goat hair bristles are gentle on baby’s scalp and help with cradle cap. Plus, it looks beautiful on the table.
18. Paume Hand Sanitizer
Cute enough to leave out and essential for diaper changes. It’s clean, hydrating, and smells amazing. You’ll use it all day.
19. 8 Sheeps Organics Bedtime Lotion
Once baby turned 9 months, this became our nighttime routine. A tiny foot massage before bed and she’s out for 12 hours.
20. This Works Baby Sleep Spray
Perfect for setting a sleepy mood. I use the adult version and the baby one is now a bedtime staple too.
21. Noodle & Boo Room Diffuser
Yes, I bought this because I was obsessed with the lotion scent — and no regrets. Now our nursery smells just as cozy.
22. Lafco Candle Jar for Storage
No, I don’t light candles near the changing table — but I repurposed an empty Lafco jar to hold small essentials. Pretty and practical.
23. Henry’s Healing Salve
The MVP of our changing station. Cleared up baby acne, red bumps, and mystery rashes overnight. A small-batch mom-founded brand I’ll support forever.
Now You Know The Changing Table Essentials to Keep You and Your Baby Happy
Every mom’s setup will look a little different, but these were my non-negotiables. If I had to do it all again, I’d pack these items first. From newborn skincare to diaper-changing tools and sleep solutions, these must-haves made early motherhood smoother, cleaner, and more comforting for both of us.
💡 Pro tip: Make your changing table setup both functional and beautiful — because let’s be real, you’ll be spending a lot of time there.