Hello, moms and dads! It’s time to broach a subject that nobody wants to talk about. I mean dirty diapers. It’s definitely not ranked among the fun parts of parenting, but you’ll be doing a lot of it. That’s why changing tables are one of the most popular items for a nursery. Read my guide to nursery essentials for other things to go with it.

Do You Need a Changing Table?

I would say that a changing table is not indispensable. You could easily repurpose some other table or even a dresser using a changing pad, on an as-needed basis. But I do think it’s a good investment, especially if you’re having or planning on having multiple kids.

Changing tables are a good investment for a couple reasons. Since they’re made for this purpose, they are at the appropriate height for changing, which your back will appreciate. It’s also a great place to organize your baby stuff, and being a neat freak myself, I do value that very highly. So here are my five top picks of changing tables:

1. IKEA Gulliver Changing Table

$99

• An economical crib
• Very dependable and fits any décor

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I’ve said it about the Gulliver Crib and I’ll say it for the Gulliver Changing Table: IKEA blows me away! In spite of its low price, this table is well-made, with many parents attesting to its sturdiness. It’s at a good height, and it offers ample storage. If you just want a plain ol’ changing table that gets the job done and blends with any décor, then you’ve found it here.

2. Graco Changing Table with Water-Resistant Change Pad and Safety Strap

$109

• A good bargain crib
• Classic appearance
• Sturdy and satisfactory

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The Graco Changing Table is another attractive bargain, costing only a smidgen more than the IKEA Gulliver. While the Gulliver has more of a minimalist aesthetic, this table has a muted classic look to it. You still get two large open shelves with ample space for diapers, towels, and other supplies. Parents are overwhelmingly satisfied with it, finding it to be very sturdy, even up against squirmy, heavier babies!

3. Babyletto Lolly 3-Drawer Changer Dresser 

$399

• Mid-range crib
• Fits with a mid-century or modern scheme
• Deep drawers with lots of space

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The Babyletto Lolly is a beautiful and dependable piece of furniture that will fit in nicely with a mid-century or modern furnishing scheme. This piece sports three deep drawers offering ample storage space. Best of all, the changing tray can be removed once your child has grown out of diapers, serving as a dresser for their bedroom. Some people find it difficult to assemble, but once it’s put together, it will serve you for years.

4. DaVinci Jenny Lind Changing Table

$139

• Taller than the average changing table
• Slender profile

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What caught my eye about the DaVinci Jenny is the height. It’s taller than your average changing table, making it suited to taller parents (like yours truly!). I also like the design of the spindles that frame the two large open shelves. The design gives it a slender profile that makes the surrounding area look airier. Parents love the classic style, the ease of assembly, and the quality that one gets for the price.

5. Pottery Barn Kids Kendall Extra-Wide Nursery Dresser & Topper Set

$1,199

• A luxury crib
• Changing table can be removed to make a dresser
• Fits many schemes, including mid-century
• Seven spacious drawers

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If you’re in the mood for a significant investment, then you might consider the Kendall set from Pottery Barn Kids. The price is steep, but you get a lot for your money here. The design is Craftsman-inspired, but it will go along with many schemes, including mid-century. It features seven spacious drawers, with a removable changing tray on top that you can take off once your baby has grown up. It’s made from quality Sap Gum wood, and will last you for years, serving you with its functionality and drawing compliments from visitors along the way.