1. A ton of diapers and wipes. This one might sound like a no-brainer, but stock up! It's very easy to quickly run out of diapers and wipes, and you don't want to find yourself in a very important diaper-free-baby moment, rummaging through the diaper bag in hopes there's one left (or worse, realizing there's not!).

2. Changing pad with safety clip. Babies can be really wiggly, and no matter how strong you are, you'll need to make sure yours is extra secure during changes.

3. Diaper pail. Before you accidentally miss when tossing that diaper across the room, move the diaper pail closer to your changing station, within arm's reach. Whether it's a step-can or motion activated, it should have a way of opening that's hands-free.

4. Baby lotion. Whatever lotions or potions your pediatrician recommends you use to care for baby's skin, umbilical cord, and/or circumcision, have them handy at changing time. These are the moments you've got baby's skin exposed, so use them! You don't want to have to undress baby more often than you already are.

5. Storage bins or drawer organizers. Obviously, you're going to need places to put all the diaper changing gear. If you have open shelving, you'll want bins to put the diapers and products in. If you use a dresser top as a changing table, consider drawer organizers to wrangle the stuff.

6. A few favorite toys. Oh, the joys of trying to change a dirty diaper when your kid can't help but grab his feet, and little ... parts (moms with boys know). Definitely keep something enticing nearby -- a mobile, a colorful rattle or other favorite item -- to keep baby distracted and occupied.

7. Soothing items. Some babies really hate having their diapers changed. Soft music, a pacifier, or another soother can help prevent a fussy bout.

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8. Laundry bin. Changing stations aren't just for diapers. This is where the whole wardrobe is going to get switched -- often multiple times a day. Keep a laundry bin as close to the changing area as the diaper pail is.

9. Change of clothes in baby's current size. This one is optional, but having it close will save you a trip to the closet or the dresser when you realize there's a spit-up stain on baby's onesie during a change. You don't want to leave baby alone on the changing table for a second (yes, even with the safety strap).

10. Night-light. Face it: You don't have night vision. Nighttime diaper changes can get tricky in the dark, and turning on an overhead light at 2 a.m. is jarring, which is why I recommend a nearby night-light.

11. Grooming kit. While your baby is strapped down on the changing pad, you might as well trim and file his nails, which grow fast. Keeping the grooming kit at your changing table will remind you to stay up on those claws. You may want to comb his hair then, too (if he has some).

12. Small blanket. Whether it seems a little drafty at home, or you're trying to keep baby warm post-bath, there's a good chance a blanket will come in handy.

13. Another changing station. In addition to this main changing area, you'll probably want another place to change baby, whether it's in your living room, the bathroom, or your bedroom, if baby spends a lot of time there. Consider another place in your home where you're going to want the basic essentials. It can save you multiple trips up and down stairs or between rooms at night or after bathing. And stock the diaper bag too!

What else do you keep in your baby's changing station?

Image via iStock.com/gpointstudio

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