Washable portable changing mat (Bambino Mio is good)." (Recommended by Mumsnet user Theoverstretchedmultitasker) Our verdict

Before we recommend new products, we always ask our trusted Mumsnet users, of which there are more than 7 million each month. That’s an awful lot of honest, impartial advice, don’t you think? Expert guidance How do I clean it? – When a product is doing a messy, dirty job, it’s essential that it can be cleaned easily and frequently. Many mats can be wiped cleaned with a disinfectant spray or wipe. Fabric changing mats are more likely to absorb leaks and should be machine washable to ensure that they can be properly cleaned between uses. If you choose a fabric changing mat, you may need to consider purchasing two so that you always have one at your disposal while the other is in the wash. Get a splash mat changing mat for the floor as it's safer.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user babydreamer1) Our verdict A changing mat isn’t necessary and the NHS advises that you can use a changing mat or a towel for nappy changes. However, whilst a towel may be comfortable for your baby, it is likely to absorb leaks and spills and will need machine washing between uses. For that reason, a wipe-clean, waterproof padded changing mat is likely to make your life easier in the early weeks and months of your baby’s life as well as reducing your washing pile and keeping other surfaces in your home - such as your carpets, if you tend to change your baby on the floor as the NHS advises is the safest way. Are PVC changing mats safe?

Is a changing mat necessary?

Changing mats are an absolute must-have for nappy duty, bath time and massage time. Ours are thoughtfully crafted with three raised sides for baby's comfort. Plus, it's generously stuffed with plush foam in the center to keep your little one comfy and supported. It fits most changing tables, but you can also stash it under the couch for nappy duty in a jiffy! Which changing mat is best? Polyvinyl chloride – or PVC - contains chemical additives including phthalates, lead, cadmium, and/or organotins, which can be harmful to health in high doses, look for changing mats which are labelled as being made from non-toxic PVC or eco-friendly vinyl, free from phthalates and other toxins. How we chose our recommendations Recommendations from real parents

you can get neoprene swim changing mats that are good presuming [the] baby won't roll away!” (Recommended by Mumsnetter JessicaPeach) Our verdict We were given a fold-up changing mat with compartments for wipes and nappies from JoJo Maman Bébé. It was used every single day when DS2 was little, and now is always in the changing bag. I have no idea how I survived without it for DS1!” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user BrioLover) Our verdict I can honestly say just get one which is nicely padded and the ones with sloping sides are handy when they start rolling. They're called 'wedge' shaped.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnetter Cherrybakewellard) Our verdict We love ours, especially when little one pees mid change - the mat is angled, so it drains down and keeps them dry.” (Loved by Mumsnetter GemmaJen) Our verdictObaby is a well established company that has exploded onto the nursery scene in 2002 with exciting and innovative products and reputation for quality, style and reliability. At Mumsnet, we know how important the right baby equipment is, and how an authentic recommendation from a fellow parent who's been in your shoes can be better than any expert opinion. That's why we obsessively research and review baby products to help you choose. Whether it's the best breast pump, the best baby bottles or the best changing bag you're looking for, you'll find honest, judgement-free advice from real parents right here. The best overall changing mat for babies is the chic and practical East Coast Nursery Wedge Changing Mat with wedged sides for support and safety. What should I look for in a changing mat?