Mom Warns of Surprising Way Public Changing Tables Can Be Dangerous for Babies

It’s a fact of life: Public restrooms aren’t always the cleanest. But when you’re out and about and baby is giving off a smelly signal, there aren’t too many options to work with. Armed with wipes and blankets, you’re ready to make the move.

But Jessica Wayman has an important PSA about those black, dirty spots visible on many changing tables.

“Before putting your babies anywhere near these things, always wipe them down first. Even if you are in a hurry, even if you have a blanket to lay down. See the black marks? Those are from burnt spoons. Addicts use these as tables while they shoot up,” she explains.

“There could be residue from heroin/meth, whatever, and other harmful bodily fluids,” Wayman elaborates. “If someone doesn’t care about themselves, I can promise you, they aren’t thinking about your kids. Be cautious.”

Some skeptical parents questioned whether the marks were from addicts, or simply dirt from everyday wear and tear. Clearing up any cause for confusion, the mom updated her post to share a personal piece of information on how she knows this from experience.

“This is in reference to changing stations in single person bathrooms and in handicapped stalls. I am a recovering addict myself, which is why I made this post in the first place—to warn all the unsuspecting parents who would never think something like this when looking at a changing table," she explains. “Along with people using them as tables while they shoot up, they are also often used by addicts to bust drugs out and crush them up upon. So again, be cautious.”

The post has been shared more than 142,000 times, enlightening parents and caregivers on this vital piece of information.

On top of this issue, there’s also been a call for more changing tables to be available in men’s bathrooms.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.