Changing tables for a well-designed nursery
A changing table is a daily companion for you and your child during the early years – for nappy changes, getting dressed and storing countless bits and bobs. At Möbel Ehrmann, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of changing tables that combine functionality, safety and a homely look. Whether space-saving for small spaces or spacious with a top unit and several drawers: our expert advice will help you choose the right model for your home.
What makes a good changing table
A well-designed changing table offers far more than just a flat surface. It combines an ergonomically suitable height of around 90 to 95 cm with ample storage space and a construction that can withstand daily wear and tear over several years. Key features include sturdy frame joints, high-quality self-closing drawers and a changing surface measuring at least 70 × 75 cm, so that your baby can lie safely even as they grow older.
When it comes to changing tables, it’s worth paying attention to the details: rounded edges, a raised edge on the changing surface and sturdy attachments lay the foundation for stress-free nappy-changing moments. Interior design also plays an important role. Full-extension drawers reveal their entire contents and make it easier to access nappies, creams and a change of clothes – an advantage that is particularly noticeable in the first few months.
Dimensions and sizes: Which changing table suits your room
Nurseries vary in size, and the right chest of drawers width depends on the space available next to the cot and wardrobe. A narrow changing chest measuring around 70 to 90 cm in width is suitable for compact rooms or niche solutions. Models measuring 100 to 120 cm offer additional drawers for baby clothes, bed linen and care accessories.
Depth is also worth considering. A changing chest of drawers with a depth of 50 cm can be easily integrated into rooms where traditional chests of drawers appear too bulky. It still provides sufficient surface area, provided a changing unit extends the surface upwards. A deeper version, between 75 and 80 cm, offers greater comfort, as the changing mat is wider and there is space to keep care items within easy reach.
Changing table with or without a changing unit
A changing table with a changing unit offers a clear advantage: the raised edge protects against the baby rolling off to the side and gives you greater peace of mind whilst changing nappies. Attachments that can be removed once the nappy-changing phase is over are practical, as the chest of drawers can then continue to be used as a standard chest of drawers in the nursery or bedroom. If you plan to purchase a changing top as an add-on, make sure it is fully compatible with the changing table – not all tops can be combined seamlessly.
Brand quality: Why an Paidi changing chest might be worth it
Anyone who values durable craftsmanship and well-thought-out safety features is often well advised to choose branded models. A Paidi changing table for example, epitomises German craftsmanship with a particular focus on material testing, low levels of harmful substances and stability. The design is built to last for years, and many models can be repurposed as a standard chest of drawers or sideboard once the nappy-changing phase is over – an aspect that also pays off both environmentally and economically.
In addition to Paidi, we also carry other established brands that deliver a comparable standard of quality in the baby furniture category. Our interior design consultants will explain the differences between the brands in-store and help you decide which manufacturer best suits your requirements. If you’re planning the nursery as a complete concept, you’ll benefit from the fact that matching cots and cot beds as well as complementary wardrobe units, are available from the same range.
Choice of materials: From white lacquer to solid wood
The choice of materials not only determines the appearance but also the care requirements and lifespan of a changing table. A white changing table has a timeless, bright look and can easily be integrated into other interior designs later on. Lacquered surfaces are resistant to moisture and can be cleaned with a soft, slightly damp cloth – a practical advantage in everyday life with a toddler.
A wooden changing table on the other hand, brings a warm, natural atmosphere to the nursery. Solid woods such as beech, oak or pine are robust, durable and develop a characteristic patina over the years. For high-quality baby furniture, a combination of a solid wood body and a lacquered front can be a good choice, as it combines the advantages of both materials. If you’re looking for a particularly natural look, you’ll also find models with oiled finishes that bring out the wood’s natural character.
Safety with changing tables: what you should look out for
Safety is the top priority in the nursery. A good baby changing unit features a standard anti-tip device that can be secured to the wall – as soon as toddlers become more mobile and discover that drawers can be used as climbing aids, this safety feature is essential. Materials tested in accordance with current European safety standards give parents extra peace of mind that no harmful substances are being released.
Look out for rounded edges, smooth-running yet sturdy pull-out drawers with anti-slip stops, as well as certified paints and adhesives. A recommendation based on our many years of experience in customer advice: if possible, do not place the changing table directly under a window, and always keep a hand close to your baby – even a high top rail is no substitute for this level of attention.
Care and long-term value retention
To ensure the changing chest continues to perform well as a standard chest of drawers after the nappy-changing phase, it should be looked after regularly. Lacquered surfaces can be cleaned with mild, solvent-free cleaning products; you should avoid aggressive sprays or scouring creams, as these can permanently dull the surface. For wooden chests of drawers, it is advisable to refresh the surface about twice a year with a suitable furniture oil or maintenance wax, provided the surfaces are oiled.
You should remove stains from nappy cream, nappy rash cream or baby oil as soon as possible – fresh splashes can usually be wiped off effortlessly, whilst dried-on residue requires more effort to remove. Pro tip: lay a wipeable cover or a washable changing mat on the changing surface. This helps the material stay attractive for longer. If you’d like to move the changing table to another room later on, you’ll find inspiration in our Baby Room Complete Sets and Wardrobes for the Baby Room.
Personal advice at Möbel Ehrmann
As a family-run business with over 30 years’ experience in the furniture trade, we support parents and parents-to-be in creating the perfect nursery. Our interior design consultants take the time to ask about the layout of your room and your ideas, and discuss with you which features are important to you. Our in-house fitting teams then deliver your changing chest of drawers and, if required, assemble it on site – without subcontractors and with our usual care and attention.
Come and be inspired at one of our furniture stores in the region or browse at your leisure online. We’d be happy to advise you on designing a nursery that grows with your child’s needs – functional, safe and with an atmosphere in which your family feels at home.
Frequently asked questions about changing tables
What height should a changing table be?
An ergonomically suitable changing height is between 90 and 95 cm. This allows you to change your baby in a way that is easy on your back, without having to bend over excessively. For very tall or short parents, it’s worth testing the unit in the furniture shop to see whether the chosen height is truly comfortable to use.
When is a changing table no longer needed?
Most families use the changing table until the child is around two and a half to three years old. Afterwards, models without the changing unit can often be repurposed as a standard chest of drawers or sideboard in the child’s bedroom – a factor that should be taken into account when making a purchase.
What depth is ideal for a changing chest of drawers?
A changing chest with a depth of 50 cm is suitable for smaller rooms and, when combined with a changing unit, provides sufficient changing space. Deeper models from 75 cm offer more storage space and a more generous changing surface – this can be a good choice if the nursery has sufficient space.
Is a changing chest of drawers with a changing unit worth it?
A removable changing top enhances safety during nappy changes and extends the lifespan of the piece of furniture. Once the nappy-changing phase is over, the top is removed and the chest of drawers continues to serve as a standard piece of drawer furniture in the child’s room or bedroom.