Should You Install Shelves Above the Changing Table?

Shelves above the changing table have become a popular nursery design feature. The idea of extra storage space right within arm's reach is appealing to many parents. After all, keeping diapering supplies easily accessible can make the numerous daily changes a bit smoother.

While shelves above the changing table offer functionality, they also provide the opportunity to infuse decorative flair. A set of open shelves lined with cute baskets makes for a pretty focal point. Framed family photos, children's books, and meaningful trinkets can personalize the space.

Key Factors to Consider Before Installing Shelves

Though shelves above changing tables offer clear benefits, they also come with safety concerns. After all, a sturdy shelf loaded with heavy items positioned above a squirming baby presents potential risks. Before deciding whether to incorporate shelves into your nursery design, think through the key factors.

Safety

Safety should be the number one priority when evaluating shelves above the changing area. Even if you love the look, shelves aren't worth endangering your little one.

Proper mounting is imperative. Shelves must be securely installed into the wall studs with hardware designed to bear the weight. Drywall anchors alone won't cut it. Using high-quality stud finding tools and screws specifically for mounting will provide stability.

Don't overload shelves with heavy objects that could cause the hardware to fail. Large ornaments, picture frames, vases, and books can seem harmless, but cumulatively place undue strain. Weight distribution is also key--avoid placing all heavy items together on one side.

While reaching for wipes and soothing creams, having a wide open shelf overhead seems convenient. However, a squirmy, wriggling baby inadvertently hitting the shelf could bring it crashing down. Opt for safety brackets as an extra precaution.

Over time and use, shelves may begin to loosen. Periodically check for any mounting issues and re-tighten when needed. Don't install shelves you don't fully trust to be secure.

Storage Solutions

Though safety comes first, the functionality of shelves shouldn't be overlooked. When properly mounted, shelves above the changing station provide excellent storage real estate. Keeping supplies within arm's reach makes diaper changes faster.

Use baskets to corral smaller items like diapers, wipes, creams, socks, burp clothes, and pacifiers. Bins make it easy to grab what you need without having supplies roll over the edge. Consider investing in a label maker to identify basket contents.

Tiered shelving doubles your storage. A staggered two shelf system places frequently used items on the bottom and specialty supplies up top. You can also utilize vertical space by storing larger packs of wipes and diapers on the bottom shelf.

While the accessibility is a perk, beware of clutter. Too many odds and ends crammed onto shelves create visual chaos. Edit items so only essentials remain.

Nursery Design

Beyond function, shelves introduce decorative possibilities. The right shelves can seamlessly blend into your nursery's design aesthetic. Painted, stained, or white-washed wooden shelves often complement shabby chic, French provincial, or rustic styles.

Set a calming tone in the changing area by lining shelves with books, photos, and subtle floral arrangements. Use baskets in coordinating colors and materials to pull shelves into the room's palette.

Just be mindful--if opting for open shelves, contents will be on full display. Make sure you love seeing every item. Style shelves thoughtfully by limiting clutter and rotating objects seasonally.

Alternatives to Shelves

If you decide against shelves above the changing table, don't despair. Plenty of other storage solutions abound. Corner shelves, wall mounted shelves, over-the-door storage, baskets, and storage ottomans provide space.

Situate a dresser or cabinet nearby to stash supplies out of sight. A combination of open shelving and enclosed storage delivers form and function.

An interior designer can explore layout options to determine creative ways to build in storage that aligns with your safety concerns and design preferences.

Tips for Safe and Stylish Shelves Above Changing Tables

Proper Mounting and Installation

Safely securing shelves begins with proper mounting techniques. Locating and utilizing wall studs provides stability for shelf brackets and hardware.

Stud finding tools like electronic detectors and magnetic stud finders accurately locate studs. When drilling pilot holes, avoid solely using drywall anchors which can easily pull loose.

Opt for heavy duty screws and anchors rated to bear the shelf weight. Follow all manufacturer instructions for secure installation. Overloading shelves risks collapse, so don't exceed weight limits.

Distribute weight evenly across shelves. Clustering heavy items in one spot strains the hardware. Finally, apply safety brackets for peace of mind and protection.

Strategic Storage and Organization

Carefully plan what essentials will live on shelves above the changing table. Multipurpose baskets neatly corral items like diapers, wipes, socks, burp clothes, and other supplies.

Tiered shelving doubles storage real estate. Use the bottom for heavy frequently used items, while lighter objects reside up top. Labels help identify basket contents at a glance.

Edit down to clutter to just the necessities for efficient diaper changes. As babies grow, reassess what should stay and what can be relocated. Maintaining organized shelves is an ongoing process.

Decorative Touches

While practicality comes first, shelves shouldn't be an eyesore. Coordinating shelves with your nursery design enhances the space.

Paint, stain, or whitewash shelves to blend into the room's color scheme and style. Ensure shelves don't clash with the crib, rug, and other decor.

Line shelves neatly with children's books, framed family photos, small plants, and meaningful keepsakes. Cute baskets in complementing colors and patterns corral odds and ends.

Style shelves simply so the room feels calm and peaceful. Too many colorful items compete for attention. Follow the "less is more" approach.

Smart Precautions

Take steps to maximize safety if incorporating shelves into your nursery. Do not place heavy ceramics, vases, or collectibles overhead which could shatter and harm baby.

Over time, mounting brackets and screws may slowly loosen. Every few months, inspect shelves for stability, and promptly re-tighten any hardware.

Consider safety brackets as an additional safeguard. They prevent shelving from fully detaching and collapsing if mounting fails. Supervise babies and toddlers during diaper changes to prevent grabbing.

Your baby's safety should drive all decisions about overhead nursery storage. When in doubt, opt for caution.

Shelves above changing tables offer clear functionality and design benefits. But the risks associated with heavy objects overhead cannot be ignored.

With proper installation techniques, strategic organization, and decor restraint, shelves can safely enhance your nursery's form and function. Take precautions seriously to prioritize baby's wellbeing.

If you have persistent safety concerns, explore alternative storage solutions. A changing table dresser, wall mounted shelving, baskets, and other options provide space for supplies.

Focus on safety, efficiency, design and your own comfort level when evaluating shelves above the changing area. An informed decision will lead to the ideal setup for your family and nursery style.