Baby changing unit buying guide

You'll change thousands of nappies in the first couple of years, so a changing unit at the right height with everything within reach makes a real difference. Here's what to look for.

Types of changing unit

Chest changers and dressers: a chest of drawers with a changing top. The drawers hold clothes and nappies, and many tops can be removed later so the piece becomes an ordinary chest of drawers.
Open changing units: a changing surface with open shelves below for baskets of nappies, wipes and creams.
Changing tops for existing furniture: some ranges offer a top that fits a matching chest of drawers.

Our baby changing units come from Tutti Bambini, Vox, OBaby and Lifetime Kidsrooms, including chest changers and dressers with changing tops.

What to look for

A comfortable height

The changing surface should let you stand upright without bending, which matters after a caesarean or with back trouble. Check the height on the product page and compare it with a kitchen worktop you find comfortable.

Raised sides and the right mat

Most changing tops have raised edges on three sides. Check what size changing mat fits the top, and buy a mat that fits snugly.

Storage within arm's reach

You should never step away or turn your back with a baby on a changing unit. Everything you need (nappies, wipes, cream, a clean vest) should be reachable with one hand while the other stays on your baby. Shallow top drawers or open shelves right below the top work best.

Life after nappies

A unit that converts into a chest of drawers keeps earning its place long after potty training. Check the product description for what it becomes and whether any parts are removed.

Finish and matching

Changing units are often part of a nursery range with a cot bed and wardrobe. See nursery furniture sets and edits like white baby changing units and natural wood changing units.

Safety essentials

Never leave your baby unattended on a changing unit, even for a moment. Babies can roll unexpectedly.
Fix the unit to the wall with the fixings supplied. See our anti-tip guide.
Keep creams and nappy sacks out of your baby's reach once they start grabbing.
If you're unsure or tired, changing on a mat on the floor is always a safe alternative.

Where to put it

Away from windows, blind cords and radiators.
Close to the cot bed for night changes, with a dim lamp nearby.
With space to stand in front, and for drawers to open.

Planning the rest of the nursery

A changing unit, a cot bed and somewhere to store clothes are the core of most nurseries. See our cot bed checklist and nursery furniture that grows with your child.