Because changing tables can take up valuable space in a baby’s nursery, you’ll want to consider size, design, and cost before you make your final decision. It’s important to remember babies should never be left on a changing table unattended as they could fall off or get into baby products. We carefully considered design, material, ease of use, assembly, and cleaning, and any age, height, or weight recommendations when reviewing products. Here are our top picks for changing tables to help you navigate your search. Price at time of publication: $150 Price at time of publication: $120 Price at time of publication: $100 The topper is attached to the dresser, converting it into a changing table so that the baby does not roll off. When you no longer need the table for diaper changes, you can remove the topper and the dresser will function as normal. Price at time of publication: $190 Price at time of publication: $130 Price at time of publication: $149 Also think about how long you’ll want to use the changing table as your baby grows. As they get bigger, babies tend to wiggle all over during changes and some parents may opt to start changing them on the floor to avoid injuries. In this case, you don’t need a table with a lot of length since you’ll primarily use it while your tot is still tiny. On the flip side, if you have difficulty getting down on to or up from the floor, you may want a changing table that will hold more weight and has enough length for a growing toddler.
Type
There are a variety of different types of changing tables and you will want to pick one that best meets your needs.
Stand-alone: This is simply a changing table with no other purpose. It may have some shelving under it to store diapers and diapering supplies or it may be super compact or even portable. Stand-alone changing tables are straightforward and often minimalistic (though that does not mean they are never stylish). Dresser combo: Many baby-specific dressers are designed to fit a changing pad on top of them and often come with an accessory or conversion kit to turn the top of the dresser into a changing table. This is a great option for someone who has enough space in a room for a dresser and a crib but doesn’t want to take up more space with a changing table. With hamper: Some changing tables are equipped with a hamper, which is a great convenience during the first year, and specifically during the first six months because you will often use the changing table to not only change your baby’s diaper but their clothes as well, so you can easily toss the dirty clothes right into the hamper without missing a beat. Crib combo: Though there are only a few models like this, some cribs are designed with a changing table attached. When it comes time to convert the crib into a toddler bed or full-size bed, oftentimes the changing table will come apart and serve as a nightstand. This is a good option for someone who is trying to maximize the space in their baby’s room.
Budget
If you’re trying to stick to a budget, you’ll want to be picky with the changing table you choose because a lot of them can be pricey. Consider getting one with dual purposes, such as a changing table/bookcase or dresser with a changing tabletop so that you’re able to stretch the use of the table past one to three years. While these may be more expensive up front, you’ll likely save money in the long run with a changing table that has conversions.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer and mom to a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old. She has personal experience in researching and purchasing a variety of children’s products, and key considerations she used when selecting these recommendations include materials, design, and user reviews. After placing a baby on their changing table, keep a hand on them at absolutely all times—meaning no quick trips to the dresser for a change of clothes or to toss a soiled diaper in the bin, even if you’re using the safety strap. Keep everything you might need for diaper changes within your arm’s reach, and everything you don’t want your child to touch out of their arm’s reach. For instance, make sure diapers, wipes, diaper cream, and clothing are stowed in shelves or drawers beneath your changing surface or nearby. Never allow your child to play with powder, which can lead to lung injury if inhaled, or disposable diapers, since the plastic lining pieces can cause suffocation if swallowed.
