Collapsible Changing Table

Our advice Buying Guide

Irrespective of what you might have read on parenting forums or heard from your friends, a changing table offers a much better surface to change those messy diapers. Certainly better than the floor or the bed. No more crouching on your knees or bending at the waist. The Real Diaper Association says that a baby will run through 6000 diapers in the first couple of years of their life. That’s a lot of crouching folks.

A changing table keeps the baby safe and the mommy comfortable. More importantly, it has integrated storage shelves to keep all the baby’s essentials handy. And when it’s collapsible, it folds away and neatly tucks into a corner when not in use.

Here are some of the factors that matter when you look for collapsible changing tables.

How to make sure a collapsible changing table is safe?

Collapsible changing tables usually have metal frames with a fabric surface. Look for a heavy duty steel frame with non-slip legs that stays stable and adheres to the ground.

Aluminum frames are lighter than steel but are not as stable as you’d like them to be. Wooden and plastic frames can be aesthetically pleasing and cost-effective as compared to metal ones.

Irrespective of what material you choose, the table must feel sturdy when the foldable frame is locked into position. Even the slightest wobble indicates a weak frame. Skedaddle.

Are there any sharp edges or gaps in the frame? These increase the risk of injury.

Even better, look for child-safe foam padding on all metallic surfaces irrespective of whether they are sharp or not. It must have a roll-off barrier or a raised edge on all four sides, somewhat like a guardrail that protects the infant from rolling off the table. The roll-off barrier must be at least 3-inches tall according to JPMA/ASTM.

Buy tables that comply with these safety standards.

Look for restraint straps and harnesses to secure your baby to the table when you change the diaper.

What's the standard collapsible changing table height?

Collapsible dressing tables vary in height. Some can be low as 30-34 inches whereas others can be as high as 42 inches. Select one that’s proportionate to your height. You might also want to consider investing in furniture straps that allow you to secure the table to furniture pieces.

Are there collapsible changing tables with plenty of storage?

You will be needing nappies, diaper-rash ointments, wipes, clothes, lotions and whatnot when you are performing diaper duties. So, a table with multiple storage pockets or shelves will keep everything within arm’s reach. This avoids the need to keep the baby unattended to fetch things in the middle of a diaper change.

Some tables have small pockets for quick-access things and a large tray in a bottom layer to store the bulkier accessories. Others have multiple tiers. Select one that works best for you.

What kind of changing pads should you choose?

The changing pad on the table must be thick, padded and soft to the touch. It is typically made of vinyl and can be wiped clean with a cloth after use. But if your child is allergic to vinyl, then you can always buy one made of a natural fabric, like cotton.

Is the collapsible changing table easy to fold?

Last but not least, check whether it’s easy to fold the table after use. Tables with an X-frame are usually easier to fold than ones which have a cumbersome mechanism. These have a locking mechanism that needs to be disengaged and a gentle push collapses the frame.

Check the dimensions of the table when folded and ensure that you have enough space to store it.