Is A Baby Changing Table Necessary?

Washrooms need to do a lot of jobs these days. As well as providing somewhere to go to the toilet and freshen up, technology and governmental guidance have transformed the commercial washroom into a space where hygiene, easy-clean functionality and vandal resistance is all factored in, delivered without compromising a cool modern aesthetic. But among all the sensor taps, hand dryers and backlit mirrors, the humble baby changing station still reigns supreme as one of the most sought after additions in any busy setting. 

Is A Baby Changing Table Necessary?

Whether it’s cafes, pubs and bars, or restaurants, train stations and shopping malls, washrooms that have the potential to cater to families are most certainly going to need baby changing facilities. This also includes airports, bus stations, hospitals, community centres and holiday parks. In fact, we advise any business with customer-facing washroom facilities to consider the installation of a baby changing unit. 

Don’t forget the men’s room

Baby changing facilities need to be accessed by all genders. This means that you should either offer a unisex changing area, which is what can often be found in shopping malls and exhibition centres, while in most SMEs you will find a baby changer installed in both the male and female washrooms. In this environment, fold-down baby changing units are the most common option, situated on a wall close to the sinks. 

Things to bear in mind

Most baby changers only provide the user with efficient space to lay the baby and change a nappy. However, you will also want to consider provisions for waste disposal and ideally somewhere for the user to place a changing bag and fresh supplies. In some instances, this could be a hook or a shelf located nearby. Other times it might be a worktop or counter. Our solid surface baby changing stations with a waste chute work to address these issues and blend seamlessly into the rest of the washroom. Counter Mounted Baby Change Stations are very popular pieces of furniture in the commercial washroom.

Alternatively, fold-down baby changers can work to meet the demands of parents and caregivers but need to be installed to the correct height with horizontal and vertical options available.

Is there a legal requirement to have a baby changer?

Currently, there is no legal requirement to offer a baby changing unit. Though the British Toilet Association says there should be no less than one unisex baby changing facility provided per 10,000 people using the area. However, we would also add that for ultimate inclusivity, baby changing units are essential.

If you would like further advice regarding baby changing tables, or to talk with one of the team, call 01202 650900.