Best Non-Toxic Changing Table Pad Guide
Isn’t it challenging to figure out what has caused your newly born baby to cry? You have tried everything the book suggests, yet the baby is still crying! When you put yourself in your baby’s booties, you will see that many times the irritant is not in your baby, but around her. In other words, your baby may be reacting to the objects around him that touch his skin. It then affect the air he is breathing, like a diaper changing pad.
In this post, you will learn about two healthy options for non-toxic changing table pads. These pads will make your baby’s changing experience more joyful for both of you. Seemingly minor, the pad will be in contact with your baby’s skin many times for many months. So, it is worth having a non-toxic changing pad in your nursery. Both options are portable changing pads that you can put on a table or dresser. One of them has safety straps and a waterproof surface that you can wipe clean with water or mild soap. Keep reading to find out what these baby changing pads are! Also, check out my blog post about a non-toxic crib mattress if you are looking for one.
Non-Toxic Changing Table Pad
To start with, the materials that, in my opinion, are not fit for a non-toxic changing pad are polyurethane foam and vinyl (PVC).
First, polyurethane foam will most likely contain flame retardants, including chlorinated Tris, a toxic flame retardant removed from baby pajamas in the 1970s. Second, polyurethane foam may emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Third, it is toxic not only to people but also to the environment because of toxic chemicals emitted during its production. On top of that, polyurethane foam contributes to landfill because it is not biodegradable. And if it catches on fire, it releases deadly gases such as hydrogen cyanide.
These are some of the reasons polyurethane foam does not belong in the best non-toxic changing table pad. For more information, visit my post Polyurethane Foam: What is Inside Our Furniture?.
As for vinyl, it’s not ideal for a non-toxic changing pad, either. Generally, manufacturers use it to make a waterproof surface in baby changing pads. In my post PVC Yoga Mats: Safe or Toxic? I explain why it is the most toxic of all types of plastic in all stages of its lifecycle: production, usage, and disposal. Though easy to clean, vinyl pad covers may contain phthalates and heavy metals, such as lead. So, potentially, your baby can be exposed to these chemicals through inhalation and skin contact.
What about PEVA vinyl (polyethylene vinyl acetate)? Though non-chlorinated and, thus, supposedly somewhat safer than PVC (polyvinyl chloride), it is still plastic made with chemicals that may be harmful to human health. Personally, I wouldn’t put my child at risk.
Best Non-Toxic Changing Table Pad Options
To begin with, when I select baby items, my criteria are particularly strict. And it is not only materials and fabrics that I look at, but also the manufacturer’s attitude to the customer. Both companies that I am about to present to you have been generous with their time. They answered all my questions to my satisfaction.
Hence, the best manufacturers of safe changing table pads, in my opinion, are Naturepedic (IREAD15 for 15% off) and Holy Lamb Organics. Naturepedic is my number one choice and for good reasons.
.For starters, I have confidence in this company because I have been their long-term customer. To clarify, we have been sleeping on their GOTS-certified organic mattresses for many years now. Our son grew out of his Naturepedic crib mattress (IREAD15) and moved onto their kids-2-in-1 mattress (IREAD15). And my husband and I have been enjoying a good night’s sleep on their best organic mattress ever (IREAD15).
You can find out why I am so excited about Naturepedic organic mattresses in my posts:
- Naturepedic Mattress Review
- Best Organic Mattress Review, and
- The Non-Toxic Crib Mattress We Switched To.
Based on our experience with the mattresses, I believe that the Naturepedic non-toxic table changing pad is also safe and of high quality.
Naturepedic Organic Changing Pad
First, Naturepedic (IREAD15) changing pad has an easy to clean waterproof surface cover that has a cotton feel to it. The cover is made from food grade biodegradable sugarcane-based plastic. (“Food grade” plastic does not mean you can eat it; it means that it is a safer type of plastic out of many.)
Actually, it is so important that your changing pad is washable. Though we took precautions in the first weeks after my son was born, sometimes things got really messy (if you know what I mean). I am glad that the Naturepedic pad (IREAD15) is one of those baby changing pads that you can wipe clean with water or mild soap, and it’s non-toxic (not made of PVC or PEVA vinyl)!
Certified by Global Organic Standard (GOTS)
Another way we know that Naturepedic uses one of the safest plastics is that the whole changing pad is certified by Global Organic Standard (GOTS), the highest authority in the textile and mattress industries. The GOTS certification means that GOTS approves of polyethylene. (You can find Naturepedic’s certificate in the GOTS database by typing in the company’s name in the “Find Suppliers” tab of the menu.)
Moreover, Naturepedic uses the same polyethylene approved by GOTS to create a support for the baby, which is very important. Cotton or wool compresses over time, so this is a much-appreciated feature.
Next, the Naturepedic (IREAD15) organic changing pad has GOTS-certified organic cotton fill instead of extremely flammable polyurethane foam. Consequently, there is no reason to use flame retardants to pass the flammability tests.
Furthermore, it is a contoured changing pad with safety straps. Specifically, Naturepedic (IREAD15) non-toxic changing table pad comes in a 2-sided contoured and a 4-sided contoured design. I’d choose a 2-sided contoured changing pad because, if your baby grows really tall (like mine did), you can still use it. Plus, it’s a portable changing pad that you can conveniently put on a table or dresser or any other place if you are on the go. Also, keep in mind that Naturepedic offers a 30 day money back satisfaction guarantee and a 1-year warranty if you buy through my affiliate link (IREAD15).
Holy Lamb Organics Non-Toxic Changing Pad
To begin, Holy Lamb Organics also makes a portable changing pad that you can conveniently place on a table or dresser. Besides, you can fold it and take it with you on a plane or road trip.
Just like the Naturepedic pad, Holy Lamb Organics is also a contoured changing pad but only on two sides. Plus, it is quilted for plushness and comfort. Unlike the Naturepedic non-toxic changing table pad, Holy Lamb Organics non-toxic pad does not have safety straps or a waterproof surface. For protection, the manufacturer recommends using a puddle pad and a thin cotton blanket to cover the pad. Don’t worry if the moisture gets to the pad because this non-toxic changing pad is washable.
The materials Holy Lamb Organics uses for their baby changing pads are premium eco-wool. it is sourced from US farmers and organic cotton canvas.
There are so many benefits of wool. First, it is naturally antibacterial and naturally regulates the body temperature. In addition, wool wicks moisture from the skin and has natural flame-retardant properties.
You can learn more about premium eco-wool and certified organic wool in my post about Holy Lamb’s organic nursing pillow.
In sum, I consider Holy Lamb Organics luxurious natural changing pad safe enough for a baby who is not sensitive to wool.
Conclusion About The Best Non-Toxic Changing Table Pad
I Believe Naturepedic And Holy Lamb Organics Non-Toxic Changing Pads Made Of Natural Materials Are The Best And Safest On The Market.
To sum up, your baby’s comfort, sleep, and health (as well as yours) are worth investing into a non-toxic changing table pad. After all, you’ll be using it daily for a long time and then reuse it if more babies arrive. (So, use your baby registry wisely!)
The safest options for safe baby changing pads I have found so far are those by Naturepedic (IREAD15 for 15% off) and Holy Lamb Organics. Both options are made with non-toxic materials and are portable. These are contoured and luxurious, there are some differences that may affect your decision.
Thus, the Naturepedic changing pad is made of GOTS-certified organic cotton and sugarcane-based food grade plastic. It has an easy to clean waterproof surface, safety straps, and a 2-sided or 4-sided contoured design.
Alternatively, Holy Lamb Organics non-toxic changing pad is made of organic cotton and premium eco-wool. It does not have a waterproof surface or safety straps and is contoured on two sides only. However, it is plush and has certain benefits added to it by the wool.
As always, browse the I Read Labels For You blog for the latest information on safe products and healthy living. If you are looking for assistance with living healthy, you can use one of our services. Also, visit our shop for options of non-toxic baby skincare, baby clothes, and household products. And make sure to check out our Baby Wipes and Diapers Rating List e-books!
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Hello! Thanks for your article! Wandering if you could give another opinion on the Keekaroo after reading the description below? It is from another article and was the response from Keekaroo about the materials used. (I was leaning towards the Naturepedic until I read reviews that it might not be waterproof. Keekaroo looks awesome- waterproof and no need for extra laundry- if it is safe of course.) Thank you very much!
“The cushion material…is made of polyurethane polymer and foam. Polyurethane Polymer is the raw material form. Once Polyurethane Polymer is processed, it becomes a Polyurethane Polymer Elastomer, which is a synthetic rubber. An example of a Polyurethane Polymer Elastomer is Spandex, sometimes referred to as Lycra, found in all kinds of clothing material. Our Cushions do not contain PBDE…[which are] organobromine compounds that are used as flame retardants in some applications. Our Flame retardant properties come from the inherent polymer structure of our trade secret materials.
We do NOT use PVC in any products we make or sell. Therefore, our products have no phthalate additives.
We’ve passed all testing required in this industry: Government: CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act), as well as independent certifications on Safety: JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturer association), ASTM International (American Society of Testing Materials). Our cushions are proudly made in the USA.
The skin of the cushion is a proprietary process that creates a non-toxic, seamless product impermeable to fluids and offers anti-microbial protection. Due to this proprietary process, although details are kept internally, I can tell you that the antimicrobial protection is a citrus based compound. Tested in the harsh hospital and school markets, our cushions are proven peel, tear and puncture resistant and include a slip resistant texture to ensure safety.”
Naturepedic pad is waterproof as well. I prefer products void of polyurethane foam. ~Irina
Hi Irina, what do you think about this crib? https://www.amazon.com/DaVinci-Non-toxic-Waterproof-Contour-Changing/dp/B000KL2IOK
Apparently it doesn’t have flame retardants or Polyurethane?
That’s good that there are no flame retardants; however, polyurethane foam is not a source of harmful VOCs as well. How do you feel about those? You can find more information in here. ~Irina
I know this is a slightly old thread, but I just received the Naturepedic one in the mail, I hadn’t seen it in person. It seems like a soft foam-ish material covered in a crunchy sounding plastic bag. I realize it is cotton with plastic – not “luxurious” like it states. There is a huge air gap – like I could grab the top layer and pull it inches off of the bottom support. Does anyone else find this terribly annoying? I can’t imagine waking up at 2am with a newborn and hearing that noise. I’m starting to look for alternatives.
Hi, Nicole: are you talking about a changing table pad or mattress? ~Irina
Irina, the changing pad 🙂
Thank you for clarifying. I would love to hear from others, too. Did you buy it on Amazon? ~Irina
We got it from our registry, but it was purchased from BuyBuyBaby. I did email Naturepedic and they gave me the runaround – my understanding though is that what I got was correct. I think they did not accurately describe what you get though.
Hi Irina,
Have you looked into Ah Goo Baby Changing Pad? I was going to purchase it but now that I came across your website. I would like to learn more about it!
http://www.ahgoobaby.com/index.php/contact
Please let me know!
Thank you.
P.S. just purchased your e-book on cribs. Thank you for sharing your detailed research. SAVE ME SO MUCH TIME AND TROUBLE!!
Hi, Jam: To learn more about the changing pad, we need to know what type of foam it is made of. I emailed them but from the product description it looks like that it is probably polyurethane foam, which a petroleum product. From your planning, what decisions did you make about your baby registry? Are you going to get all natural or organic baby products or petroleum-free when it is only absolutely needed? How far you in a process of preparing for the baby? You might benefit from downloading my free baby registry planner. Thanks. ~Irina P.S. I am glad you found my e-book on cribs helpful.
Thanks! Please let me know. I probably have to return it then. I just ordered the Naturepedic pad also.
Yes, they confirmed that it is polyurethane foam. Naturepedic pad is a good one. You will like it a lot. ~Irina
Hi – what are your thoughts on the Oeuf diaper changing pad? Not sure about that or the Naturepedic one (Ouef is almost half the price so leaning towards that one…)! Any opinion on which one, price not considered?
I have looked at it long time ago. Could you find what it is made of and send it to me? Thanks! ~Irina
according to amazon, it says (for the oeuf changing pad) 69% fiberboard and 31% urethane foam (does not say polyurethane) and states it is made of “renewable plant – based foam”
Hi Shari: urethane foam is a type of polyurethane. Fiberboard is a type of wood product. I thought we were talking about changing pad, not changing table. I find that Amazon product descriptions are often confusing and misleading. I always try to contact the manufacturer directly. Could you please do that? Thanks! ~Irina
straight from Oeuf:
“All of our mattresses and changing pads are handmade by Colgate Kids in Atlanta, GA. No chemical flame retardants are used. A barrier fabric made of Rayon is used to meet fire safety standards. This is a cellulose material placed underneath the top layer of the mattress/pad. This is safer than chemical retardants. The wetproof backing is made of a food grade polyurethane. Fiberboard is at the bottom and does not contain MDF. It is high-density fiberboard, which does not require glue or other added products. There is no formaldehyde.”
“The foam itself is made of a plant-based foam that, as of last measure, was an 20:80 ratio with food grade polyurethane oil based foam. Colgate kids is constantly trying to better themselves and that ratio is always changing to include more plant based foam and less polyurethane.”
she also mentioned its:
greenguard certified.
free of PVC, phthlates, PBDE and phosphorus and arsenic (she mentioned a few more, but I did not write them down).
(also thinking that the baby is not going to be spending a significant amount of time on the changing pad….unlike sleeping).
what do you think with that information?
Hi Shari: it is not too bad, as you said, considering the price and that it is a small object. I like that it is certified by Greenguard. I wonder if it is certified to Greenguard’s Gold standard, which would be good. And yes, since the baby is not going to be spending much time on it. It would be also good to air it out in the garage before using, just in case. Thank you for your research!.~Irina
I’m talking about the Keekaroo changing pad.
Have you looked at the peanut changing pad by keekaroo? It boasts that it is non toxic.
Thank you for the suggestion, Julie! I sent them an email. It looks like it is some type of plastic…
Looking forward to your thoughts on the keekaroo peanut changing pad, too! Thanks so much, Irina!!
It is made of a type of synthetic rubber. It is one of those situations where we just do not know enough about it. Eventually, somebody will do research. I would be curious to smell it. If you see it in a store, let me know if it has any smell. I tend to err on the side of caution and prefer natural materials such as wool, cotton, hemp, etc.
We ordered one and it does have a smell out of the box. We’re letting it air out for a month before the baby comes!
Are you talking about Naturepedic changing table pad?
Hi! I’m wondering what your thoughts are on the Jelly Baby Change Mat by Mebby. Is it safe and non-toxic?
Hi! I sent them an email with some questions. Thanks for asking.
Normally when it says “rubber,” that means synthetic rubber. I did confirm with them though and the pad is made of synthetic rubber, the material I do not recommend. Let me know if you have further questions.