Dresser vs. Changing Table

One important choice that often gets overlooked is deciding whether to include a dresser or a changing table in your nursery. While both options serve practical purposes, each has unique benefits that cater to different needs and lifestyles. 

Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each of these, helping you decide which piece of furniture will best suit your nursery and your family’s needs.

Functionality & Versatility 

A dresser is a highly versatile piece of nursery furniture. With a flat top and plenty of drawer space, it serves as a storage solution and with the addition of a changing pad, it can double as a changing station (like the Lolly 3-Drawer Changer Dresser). Once your little one outgrows diapers, the dresser transitions seamlessly into long-term bedroom furniture. This dual-purpose functionality makes it a practical choice for families looking to maximize value. 

A changing table, on the other hand, is designed specifically for diapering. Many models come equipped with features like built-in guardrails, safety straps, and shelves or baskets for organizing essentials. While it excels at its primary purpose, its utility may be limited after your baby transitions out of diapers, leaving parents to decide what to do with the furniture once it’s no longer needed.

Storage Capacity & Organization 

Storage is a top priority in any nursery, and both options have unique storage capabilities. 

A dresser typically offers deeper drawers that can accommodate a variety of items, including baby clothes, blankets, and even toys as your child grows. It provides a more concealed and polished look, keeping everything neatly tucked away. 

By contrast, changing tables often feature open shelves or baskets, which are ideal for organizing diapering essentials like wipes, diapers, and creams. The open design, like the Otto Convertible Changing Table and Cubby, allows for quick and easy access during diaper changes, but it may require additional effort to keep everything looking tidy. 

Pro Tip: If you love the look of a changing table but need more storage, consider models with a mix of drawers and shelves for added versatility. 

Safety & Stability 

Safety is paramount when choosing nursery furniture, especially for diaper changes when your baby is at their most wiggly. 

Changing tables are purpose-built for this task and often come with safety straps and raised guardrails to keep your baby secure. Their height is ergonomically designed to make diaper changes easier on your back, which can be a lifesaver during those middle-of-the-night changes. 

While dressers aren’t specifically designed for diapering, you can create a safe changing station by securing a changing pad (like the Nook Changing Pad) to the top. Many dressers also come with pre-installed anchors to prevent tipping, ensuring stability. 

Pro Tip: No matter which option you choose, always supervise your baby during diaper changes to ensure their safety. 

Longevity & Future Use 

If you’re thinking long-term, a dresser is the clear winner. It grows with your child, serving as a storage solution for years to come. As your little one transitions from baby to toddler to teen, a stylish dresser like the Charlie 6-Drawer Double Dresser remains a staple in their room. 

A changing table, however, may have a shorter lifespan. Once your baby outgrows diapers, its purpose diminishes, and you may find yourself repurposing or replacing it. Some parents choose to use their old changing tables as general storage in playrooms or other areas of the home, but its specialized design may limit its versatility. However, if you are planning on having multiple children a few years apart, you can reuse it for baby number 2, 3 or 4.  

Pro Tip: If you’re leaning toward a changing table, look for convertible models that can adapt to other uses after the diapering years.

Aesthetics & Room Design 

Nursery design is all about creating a cozy, functional space that reflects your style. When it comes to aesthetics, dressers offer more flexibility. They come in a wide variety of styles, finishes, and colours (the Hudson 6-Drawer Double Dresser comes in 4 striking colour schemes alone!), making it easy to find one that complements your nursery’s decor. Plus, a dresser can easily adapt to changing room themes as your child grows. 

Changing tables, while available in various designs, tend to be more purpose-specific. Their open shelving and utilitarian look may not blend as seamlessly into a room’s overall design once the nursery transitions to a toddler’s or child’s bedroom. 

Pro Tip: To create a cohesive look, choose a dresser or changing table that matches the crib or other nursery furniture. 

Space Efficiency 

The size of your nursery plays a significant role in determining which piece of furniture will work best. 

Changing tables like the Colby Changing Table are generally more compact, making them an excellent choice for small nurseries. Their streamlined design focuses solely on diapering needs, saving space for other essentials like a crib or rocking chair. 

Dressers, while bulkier (like the Emory Farmhouse 6-Drawer Double Dresser) consolidate storage and functionality into a single piece of furniture. This can be a space-saving solution in the long run, as it eliminates the need for additional storage furniture as your baby grows. 

Pro Tip: If space is limited, consider a vertical dresser with a smaller footprint or a wall-mounted changing station to maximize room. 

Cost & Value 

Budget is always a consideration when setting up a nursery, and the initial cost of dressers and changing tables can vary widely. 

Dressers often come with a higher price tag due to their larger size and long-term utility. However, their longevity and versatility can make them a worthwhile investment, especially if you plan to use the dresser as your child grows. 

Changing tables are typically more affordable upfront, making them a budget-friendly option for parents focused on the diapering stage. That said, their shorter lifespan may mean they offer less value in the long run. 

Pro Tip: Shop for nursery furniture during sales or look for bundles like the Sissi Convertible Crib + 3 Drawer Combo Dresser Set that include a crib, dresser, and changing pad for added savings.

Customization & Conversion Options 

Modern nursery furniture often includes customizable or convertible options to meet the needs of growing families. 

Many dressers are designed to accommodate a removable changing topper (like Stokke’s Sleepi Changer), allowing them to transition from changing station to regular dresser with ease. This feature makes them a flexible choice for parents looking to maximize utility. 

Some changing tables also offer convertible designs, such as those that transform into shelving units or toy storage once diapering days are over. While not as common as dresser toppers, these options provide added value for parents who choose a changing table.

Your Nursery, Your Choice 

When deciding between a dresser and a changing table for your nursery, the choice ultimately depends on your family’s priorities, space, and long-term plans.  

For more tips on creating the perfect nursery, check out our Nursery Articles in the Learning Centre. From How To Choose A Crib Mattress to the Best Nursery Gliders & Rockers, we’ve got you covered with all the expert advice you need. 

Happy decorating!