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By the time I'd changed two diapers using a mat on the floor, my back was already starting to tell me just how much it missed the convenient height of the changing table. I shifted to the bed, which helped my back a little (and my knees!) but I still had to bend over and my back kept complaining. By the fifth change I was having trouble straightening up again - a problem I'd never had using my changing table.

The other thing I hadn't really thought about was how handy the changing table is as a storage unit. All my frequently used items were right on hand, and anything else that might be needed was neatly tucked in the cupboards underneath. Mind also contains some drawers with all the basic baby clothing in it, so I don't have to move away from the changing table at all while changing a diaper. It's amazing how quickly all those containers get mixed up and lost in your diaper bag.

Finally I gave up and handed baby changing duties over to my husband, while my back straightened itself out again. Once I was fine we alternated doing the changes. I was extremely glad to get home again! Every day from then on I thanked my lucky stars that someone was kind enough to give me a changing table when I was expecting. Nowadays it's gone through two babies and is used simply for clothes storage, which shows that if you think ahead when you choose a changing table, it can be an important piece of furniture in your house for many years to come.

Check out the author's book about babies at Baby's First Year There are heaps more great articles about parenting at Info About Baby You can also sign up for a FREE Baby Tips newsletter at Baby Tips Newsletter.