The 10 Best Changing Tables To Ensure Easier Diapering

Carving out a dedicated area for diaper changes is sure to simplify one particularly messy aspect of early parenthood: diapering. In the newborn phase, diaper changes feel like they happen every five minutes—and sometimes they do. As your child grows into toddlerdom, the changes become less frequent but more challenging. Let’s just say, good luck chasing them down. You’ll need one of the best changing tables for both the sake of sanity and safety. Having survived several years of this phase myself, I’ve now done the research on the best changing tables, so you don’t have to.

The best changing tables fit seamlessly into the nursery or whichever space you’ve carved out for … [+] diaper changes.

Illustration: Forbes / Photos: Retailers

Before purchasing a changing table, consider the amount of space you have available, parental height and your family’s specific set of needs. You’ll need to consider safety features, too. “Having a changing station in the nursery is an excellent idea for several reasons,” says pediatrician Dr. Adrianna Bravo. “The number one reason is safety, safety, safety. Ensure your changing table or pad has guardrails or raised sides at least two inches high. That will act as a deterrent for the baby rolling off the table. Parents should also make it a standard practice always to keep one hand on the baby.”

She also notes that having a changing table helps “establish a routine for parents and babies. A changing table will be where parents change diapers, prepare the baby for bath time and dress the baby. Regularity can be essential to create a soothing daily routine.” It’s also a more hygienic option than diaper changes on the bedding or rug, she points out.

Here are the 10 best changing tables to shop right now. And after perusing this list, check out the best changing pads, the tested best diaper bags and the best diaper pails proven to contain odors.

Mục Lục

Best Overall Changing Table

A Decent Price For A Quality Piece

Babyletto Sprout 3-Drawer Changing Table

Material: Pine, engineered wood | Dimensions: 41.5 x 20.25 x 36.25 inches | Convertible: Yes | Weight limit: 30 pounds | Greenguard Gold Certified: Yes

The Babyletto Sprout is the Goldilocks of changing tables. It’s not too big or too small. It’s not too tall or too short—and it’s not too outrageously priced or too cheap. In short, this changing table and three-drawer dresser is an ideal option for any nursery. At 99 pounds, it’s sturdy and features quality craftsmanship. It’s made from pine and manufactured wood, features smooth-glide drawers and has several safety features to keep your child safe, including an anti-tip kit and drawers that don’t pull out all the way, further preventing tipping and injuries. It’s also consciously made, Greenguard certified and uses low VOC materials. Some reviewers say it was difficult to assemble (some noting it took 5 hours or more), however most seem pleased with it outside of that. Because it includes storage drawers and a removable changing topper, this piece can easily be used a dresser before and after the diaper years.

What the reviews say: Overall the consensus is that the dresser is fantastic but takes a while to assemble. As one reviewer wrote, “This is an awesome dresser. Had its moments of being tricky during assembly but just can’t rush steps. Great quality and matched the crib we got.” Another added: “Lots of room for baby clothes, diapers, cloths and crib sheets,” which is exactly what you need.

Best Value Changing Table

It’s The Top Seller On Amazon

Amazon

Delta Children Wilmington Changing Table With Pad

Material: Wood, engineered wood | Dimensions: ‎39.25 x 19.75 x 35 inches | Convertible: Yes | Weight Limit: 24 pounds | Greenguard Gold Certified: No

If you’re looking for a well-reviewed affordable changing table, this streamlined Delta changing table has racked up great reviews on Amazon, where it’s a bestseller. Not only is it far less expensive than most other options, but it has nearly 7,000 reviews and an overall 4.8 out of five rating. Reviewers say it’s “well constructed” and that assembly isn’t difficult. Parents also like that with the addition of a few fabric bins you can use it to store diapering essentials, toys, books and extra clothes. Once your baby becomes a big kid, it can be used as a book shelf or even a vanity. As one parent put it, it has “longevity.” It’s currently on sale for just $90.

What the reviews say: As mentioned, the reviews are almost overwhelmingly positive for this changing table. One reviewer explained the reason, calling it “exactly as advertised,” and adding, “This is an adorable little change table… This was for my grandson, it took me and my son in law about half an hour to put together. We had no problems and it’s sturdy once properly tightened. There is plenty of room for baby and the shelves underneath are fantastic for storage.”

Best Changing Table For Small Spaces

This Option Makes The Most Of Your Space

Graco

Graco Benton Changing Table

Material: Pine, engineered wood | Dimensions: 38.15 x 33.86 x 19.29 inches| Convertible: Yes | Weight Limit: 30 pounds | Greenguard Gold Certified: Yes

The Graco Benton Changing Table allows parents to combine two pieces of nursery furniture in one, saving on space where needed. Its open shelves double as diaper supply storage in the newborn years, but can also work for toys and books as your youngster grows. It’s Greenguard Gold and JPMA-certified, and includes an anti-tip safety kit. It’s about 34-inches in width, but reviewers noted the shelves are deep, offering plenty of storage in a durable, sturdy changing table that’s also compact and affordable. The changing topper is removable, too.

What the reviews say: This affordable, petite changer seems to have won over many families. “This changing table is the best! Not having to bend over while changing has saved my back. Also there is plenty of shelf space for baby needs. It was also very east to put together with excellent instructions. Over all, a true winner,” wrote one happy parent. Other purchasers noted that the table had a strong smell upon arrival or arrived damaged.

Best Splurge Changing Table

An Heirloom Type Piece That Will Grow With Your Child

Pottery Barn Kids

Pottery Barn Kids Kendall Extra-Wide Nursery Dresser And Topper Set

Material: Sap gum wood, manufactured wood | Dimensions: 54.5 x 18.5 x 32.5 inches | Convertible: Yes | Weight Limit: 50 pounds | Greenguard Gold Certified: Yes

This Pottery Barn Kids changing table and dresser combination stands out due to its quality, style and staying power. It’s large enough that even as your baby grows (as will their clothing size), it can easily transition to a full-size, traditional dresser. This changing table-dresser is the ideal height for parents (not too low), and the small drawers at the top are perfect for small children’s clothes and diapers. Once your baby is finished with diapers, the seven drawers will work for better sorting of all their clothes. The topper can be easily removed, too. It comes in four classic colors and matches the entire Kendall nursery collection at Pottery Barn Kids. It’s also Greenguard Gold certified and made in a Fair Trade certified factory of solid Sap Gum wood and manufactured wood. All of Pottery Barn Kids’ furniture includes pre-tested anti-tip kits. This one also offers adjustable levelers to ensure stability no matter the condition of your floors. Importantly, it arrives assembled via white glove delivery services.

What the reviews say: Mom of three, McKenna Fakheri, tells Forbes she likes the Pottery Barn Kids Kendall dresser far more than the ones she uses for her 5-month-old and almost 2-year-old. “When I compare it to the ones I purchased for my other two children, it stands out because it has seven drawers—four large and three small,” she says. “The others are only six drawers, which allows for less designated space for socks and other miscellaneous items.”

Best Freestanding Changing Table

An Elegant Piece For Those Looking For Something Simple

Amazon

DaVinci Jenny Lind Changing Table With Pad

Material: Pine, engineered wood| Dimensions: 36.25 x 19.25 x 40 inches | Convertible: Yes | Weight Limit: 30 pounds | Greenguard Gold Certified: No

While this DaVinci Jenny Lind changing table is similar in concept to our budget option, this piece has a more elevated look. Many families opt for changing tables with dresser drawers, but one reviewer hit the nail on the head as to why a standalone changing table is ideal for some nurseries: “Having this changing table separate from my dresser allowed me to put other things on the dresser (lamp, frames) and have everything an arm-length away. It has a small footprint, which is nice for a small space. I have been very happy with this product.” The open shelving makes it easy to grab what you need for changes, and it includes an anti-tip kit. Other reviewers noted that it’s easy to assemble and sturdy but slim. Plus, the brand offers a matching crib.

What the reviews say: “The shelves on this changing table are more than sufficient for everything you need to have available when dressing/changing baby,” wrote one reviewer. They went on to explain, “I lined mine with baskets and it looks great and organized. It is nice that the back is open so that you can plug in a wipe warmer or night light and place it on the shelves. The only thing that is not wood are the shelves (composite), but it’s nice because you don’t have to worry about scratching up the wood (a soft pine) with things like baskets. It matches the crib perfectly and was easy to assemble.” Like many others, this parent noted that the mat that comes with the changing table is insufficient.

Best Small Dresser And Changing Table Combo

It Has Dresser Drawers And Shelves In A Sleek, Petite Package

Amazon

Babyletto Hudson 3-Drawer Changer Dresser

Material: Pine, engineered wood | Dimensions: ‎39.4 x 19.3 x 36.7 inches | Convertible: Yes | Weight Limit: 30 pounds | Greenguard Gold Certified: Yes

There are plenty of changing table dresser combinations on the market, but this Babyletto piece includes several features that improve the functionality of any nursery. For one, the topper has a cordoned off space for diapering essentials like wipes and creams, and the dresser offers three compact drawers. It also matches our No. 1 crib pick, the Babyletto Hudson. I also love the two enclosed shelves that can be utilized in a way that suits your family. Keep in mind that the drawers aren’t the roomiest, so they won’t fit an older child’s clothes as your baby grows beyond toddlerhood. On top of the utility this changing table offers, it’s also Greenguard Gold certified and includes safety features like an anti-tip kit and stop mechanisms on the drawer.

What the reviews say: One parent called this changing table “stylish and utilitarian.” They went on to explain: “The changing top is the perfect height [and] fits a standard size changing pad. There are two slots on the left side the perfectly fit a tub of wipes and a stack of diapers. The drawers operate really well, they open and close smoothly and without much effort… It is sturdy and has held up well to cleaning…I love this dresser and look forward to continuing to use it.” Some others did complain that assembly wasn’t easy and the box is heavy upon arrival.

Best Portable Changing Table

Adjustable, Foldable And Wheel-Ready

Amazon

Sweeby Portable Baby Changing Table

Material: Metal, plastics | Dimensions: 33.5 x 19.7 x 39 inches | Convertible: No | Weight limit: Not stated | Greenguard Gold Certified: No

This lightweight changing table folds up and slides into narrow spaces for more compact living situations. And, thanks to the lockable universal wheels, it can also be moved all around the home or remain stationary, so you can comfortably change your baby in the nursery, living room, bathroom or wherever else. It includes two shelves, two side pockets, a storage basket and a hanging clothes rail, so you can easily reach diapering and clothing essentials. The fabric is waterproof and easy to clean off, and I love that the whole table is height adjustable up or down, with four locking heights and a frame suitable for parents 4-foot-8 to 6 feet tall. Given these specs and its mobility, it seems a particularly good option for the newborn days and for families planning to have more than one child.

What the reviews say: With an overall 4.5 out of 5 rating on Amazon, the reviews for this mobile changing table highlight its convenience and ease of use. “My daughter outgrew the changing table we had with our Pack ’n Play, so we needed something longer. I wanted one with wheels so we could move it room to room. This thing is pretty solid,” wrote one reviewer. “I love the shelves and the extra pouches on the side. My only complaint is the mesh pockets in the front/back of the unit are really hard to get adult hands in and out of. Don’t put necessities in there or you’ll be struggling… Otherwise this is a solid buy.”

Best Changing Table And Crib Combo

A Changing Table, Crib And Dresser All In One

Amazon

Graco Hadley 4-In-1 Convertible Crib And Changer With Drawer

Material: Pine wood, engineered wood, wood composites | Dimensions: 71.67 x 29.92 x 39.76 inches | Convertible: Yes | Weight Limit: 50 pounds | Greenguard Gold Certified: No

This classic-looking (and affordable) crib isn’t just a place to let your baby get some shut-eye. It’s also a changing table and dresser. Plus it has additional storage space underneath it and it coverts to a full-size daybed or toddler bed with the purchase of a conversion kit. While the footprint is larger than some of the other options included in list that’s because it’s several products in one. The addition of the changing table and storage mean this combo is ideal for smaller spaces—and it makes middle of the night diaper changes far easier since everything is in one place. It’s JPMA-certified as well.

What the reviews say: While some reviews site the long assembly time, many seem happy with this crib and changing table. As one parent wrote: “This crib is gorgeous. I am not typically drawn to cribs with attached changing tables, but the design of this crib is different than others… “ absolutely love the drawer underneath the crib—perfect spot to store things not frequently needed and then even toys as the baby grows. The crib is also very well-made. It is easy to put together. My husband did it in about 1.5 to 2 hours. I love how easy the drawers slide open and shut.”

Best Long-Term Use Changing Table

A Classic Option That Stands The Test of Time

Baby Relax

Baby Relax Miles 6-Drawer Dresser

This is the dresser and changing table I’ve personally had in my son’s room for three years now, and I’m still so pleased with it. I bought it with the intention of having it work for him until he’s off to college, and I have to say that on the quality and aesthetics front this dresser certainly fit the bill. I love the elevated hue of blue and the beautiful bronze pulls and detailing. The changing table topper is sold separately for $47, but it’s easy to attach and remove. Unfortunately, it is out of stock at the moment. I opted to use the Keekaroo Peanut changing pad and it worked perfectly. Aside from the look of this dresser, I appreciate the safety features like the lock stop drawers and the included anti-tip kit. The drawers are also spacious enough for adult clothing, which makes it a great long-term option.

What the reviews say: As I’ve mentioned, I love this dresser. It’s large, sturdy, unique looking and also comes with an option for a matching crib. I believe I purchased this pre-assembled and attached the changing topper myself which was easy, so I can’t speak to any assembly snafus. I will say, however, the dresser is heavy at 110 pounds, so it’s necessary to use the included anti-tip kit straight away. I love that the drawers are smooth, don’t come all the way out when my spirited toddler tugs on them and are spacious enough to fit plenty of clothes. My one negative comment is that the finish of the wood is a bit sensitive and easily displays marks and scratches.

Best Large Changing Table

A Sustainable Option With Extendable Sides And 7 Drawers

Nurture&

Nurture& The Dresser

Material: Rubberwood, fiberboard, plywood | Dimensions: 32.5 x 54.5 x 19 inches | Convertible: Yes | Weight Limit: 150 pounds | Greenguard Gold Certified: No

If you really want to maximize your draw space, this beautiful wood dresser from Nurture& might be ideal. I love that it comes fully assembled (as many options on this list take hours to put together), is timeless in style and provides plenty of space. Most notably for maximalists, this option has extendable sides that allow for even more storage space. The topper, which is unfortunately sold separately and is an additional $199, runs the span of the dresser so it too offers plenty of space for diapering essentials. This means you don’t have to store them in one of the seven drawers. And, if you want to place a white noise machine and monitor on the dresser while it’s still functioning as a changing table, you can easily place both on the extendable sides. Nurture& offers matching nursery furniture which can be bundled and offered at a reduced price—a plus since the price is on the steeper side.

What the reviews say: While all of the reviews on the Nurture& website are positive (yes, all), one happy customer went into further detail, writing: “Highly recommended!! The dresser is beautiful and it is a signature piece of our baby’s room. It also has ample space for all our baby’s clothes and with the topper we are able to change our baby with great comfort… Also we love that this piece of furniture is timeless and can be used for all our future kids.” Another added: “The drawers are very spacious and fit everything I need and more. I really love the extender panels. I had not seen this feature on many other dressers. It is simply perfect.”

How We Chose The Best Changing Tables

When it comes to selecting options for parenting “best” lists, I rely upon expert advice, recommendations from fellow parents, reviews and personal experience. I spoke with two pediatricians ahead of gathering changing tables for this article to ensure I looked for the best features in every piece. In an effort to make sure that these sections continue to be the best options for parents, we update this article regularly. It was most recently updated in January 2023.

What Is The Safest Changing Table?

Bravo points out that purchasing a safe changing table, partly comes down to where you plan to place it. Ideally, parents should place the changing table in a “space free from anything the baby can grab or become entangled in” and be mindful about having supplies close at hand, so you aren’t leaving baby unattended while you grab another diaper. “Simply put, parents need to keep three words in mind while shopping for a changing table: safety, storage and hygiene. Once you meet those three criteria, the rest is up to personal preference,” she says.

Bravo also pointed out earlier that it’s ideal to look for a changing table or pad with raised sides or guardrails to minimize baby rolling off. We’ve also pointed which changing tables come with anti-tip kits and other important safety features, such as drawers that won’t tumble out or all at once, as well as those certified to be free of certain chemicals and off-gassing. If your changing table has wheels, keep them locked to prevent accidents, too.

Is It Worth Buying A Changing Table?

As the pediatricians I spoke with noted, the best changing tables offer a safe and hygienic place to change your child’s diaper. It can also be a leaping off point toward establishing daily routines with your baby.

Dr. Rebekah Diamond, pediatrician and author of Parent Like a Pediatrician, also notes that having a changing table is helpful from a convenience standpoint “since you don’t have to bend down or move around a changing surface. There’s definitely an appeal from a nursery design and aesthetics perspective which is totally OK.”

However, many of us are short on space or constrained by budget concerns, especially when considering all the stuff suggested to stock a nursery for your baby’s first year of life. That’s why a changing table-dresser combination might deliver the most value for your family, or you may prefer a more inexpensive, temporary solution for use just during the busiest of diaper seasons: the first year. The key is to consider your space and individual family’s needs.