One of the very first considerations new parents have after deciding on the crib is whether they should select a standard changing table vs. nursery dresser with a changing pad on top.

We get this question all the time and usually the first question we ask is, ?Do you have the space?? If the answer is yes, then the next question would be, "Do you want to put another piece of furniture in your baby?s room?" Or "Do you need a dedicated area to change your baby with room for diaper changing supplies?"

We have had many customers choose both ways. For those who live in an apartment, the baby bed and changing table may be all the space you have room for. When it comes to maximizing space, most parents would agree that a dedicated changing table is great for when you have a newborn, but as your baby grows past about a year, the changer loses its usefulness.

Other parents with room for a double dresser are happy to toss a changing pad on top and use a top drawer for all the diapering essentials. Once you are done with the changing pad, you can store it for your next child or give it to a friend. That way you get all the storage that the dresser affords with no extra space needed for a separate changing table.

The Pros for a Standard Changing Table

1.A standard changing table is a little more secure since the side rails help keep your baby from rolling out. This is a bonus if you have to grab a new onesie from the dresser. When you use just a changing pad on a dresser, you must keep a hand on your baby at all times even when using the security belt.

2.Diapering supplies are close and neat out of baby's reach. With a pad on dresser solution, some kids think it is hysterical to knock over anything stashed on top of the dresser, or digging in the top drawer can be a little hectic. With the changing table, all the diapers, wipes, and creams are safely stashed.

Pros for A Changing Pad on a Dresser

1.You get more room for other baby furniture or open space where you could put a comfy glider or a play rug.

2. Your child doesn't outgrow the dresser for a long time and without the added changing table expense (about $125) you can spend more on a quality dresser that will last a long time. Changing tables pretty much have an expiration date which is when your child is too big to fit on it, too physically active to be safe on it, or is out of diapers.

3. The dresser gives you tidy, hidden storage versus the open shelving that the changing table has. I found with my boys that little fingers like to play with items on open shelves once they are moving around so it was hard to keep diaper stuff out of reach with the changing table.

So these are our pros for each type of changing station solution. In speaking with our customers, selecting the type of changing table ends up being a very personal choice and what works for one person may or may not work for another. Helpful tip: Most of our parents would tell you that a good diaper bag or caddy and roll up changing pad is key for changing on the go, on the bed, on the floor or whenever the need arises. And lets be honest, the need often arises! :) And good luck on choosing the perfect changing table!