Choosing Safe Baby Products: Changing Tables

Generally, you can choose from three kinds of changing tables:

wooden ones with guardrails
fold-up models
hinged chest adapters

Hinged chest adapters are not recommended — dressers with these adapters have toppled over when a baby's weight was placed close to the outer edge.

What to look for:

Wooden changing tables with rails are usually the least likely to sway or tip over when a baby pulls on them from the floor.
Fold-up models should be checked for sturdiness: When the table is open, give it a good shake.
A wire changing table should have a wide base so that a baby can't pull it over on top of himself or herself from the floor.
The table should have shelves or compartments for storing everything you'll need. This prevents you from taking your eyes off your baby while you look for that hard-to-find item.
A flat changing surface should be surrounded on all four sides by a guardrail, which should be at least 2 inches (5 centimeters) in height.

SAFETY NOTE: Use the safety belt every time you change your baby. Never leave your infant unattended even if you think he or she is secure. Stop using your changing table when your baby reaches the manufacturer's age or weight limit, which is typically age 2, or 30 pounds (13,607 grams).

Reviewed by: Kate M. Cronan, MD
Date reviewed: February 2010

Related Resources

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) This federal agency collects information about consumer goods and issues recalls on unsafe or dangerous products.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) The AAP is committed to the health and well-being of infants, adolescents, and young adults. The website offers news articles and tips on health for families.

The National Consumers League A private nonprofit advocacy group, the National Consumers League represents consumers on marketplace and workplace issues.

Household Safety Checklists Young kids love to explore their homes, but are unaware of the potential dangers. Learn how to protect them with our handy household safety checklists.

Childproofing and Preventing Household Accidents You might think of babies and toddlers when you hear the words "babyproofing" or "childproofing," but unintentional injury is the leading cause of death in kids 14 years old and under.

A Guide for First-Time Parents If you're a first-time parent, put your fears aside and get the basics in this guide about burping, bathing, bonding, and other baby-care concerns.

Choosing Safe Baby Products: Toys Choosing baby products can be confusing with all the gadgets available. But one consideration must never be compromised: your baby's safety.

Choosing Safe Baby Products Choosing baby products can be confusing, but one consideration must never be compromised: your little one's safety.