But what makes one table better than another? Here are four important features to keep in mind to help you narrow the field.
Safety strap. The pad should affix to the table with a safety strap.
Storage. The options are open shelves that make it easy to reach diapers and clothing, drawers or a combination of drawers and shelves. A drawer offers an advantage over open shelving because it can hide diaper supplies that can be tempting to the curious toddler your baby will become in less time than you think.
Barriers on four sides. According to the latest JPMA/ASTM safety standards, changing tables with a flat changing surface must have a barrier on all sides of the changing surface. If there is a contoured changing surface it needs to only have barriers on two opposing sides to comply with the latest safety standards.
Table height. Some are as low as 36 inches; others as high as 43 inches. To prevent back pain, you’ll want one that’s in proportion to your height.
Another option are wooden, retractable changing tables, such as a model that sits on top of a dresser and attaches to the back of it with hidden L brackets. This mini-table usually has a flat changing surface. So, remember, it should have four sides to act as barriers.
For $70 to $130, you can buy adequate changing tables with open shelving and possibly one drawer, but before you buy, consider all the furniture you plan for the nursery. You may decide that you don't need a one or simply don't have room for one. If you're tight on space or budget, consider using a dresser; buy a contoured changing pad with a safety strap and affix it to the dresser.
Unlike cribs, these haven't changed much in the past few decades, so don't be afraid to look at used tables or use hand-me-downs in this area. As long as there's a safe area for baby to lay down for diaper changes, and you don't leave the baby unattended, it shouldn't matter whether you buy the top-of-the-line new or use the dresser top from your own childhood nursery.
