Babies Gear and Products The 10 Best Changing Pads of 2023 By Laura Dorwart Laura Dorwart Laura Dorwart is an Ohio-based writer and content creator. Her work has been published by The New York Times, Forbes, BuzzFeed, Self.com, SheKnows, and more. Learn about our editorial process and Katrina Cossey Katrina Cossey Katrina Cossey is a freelance writer covering topics ranging from local and national news as well as writing and researching for parenting content. Learn about our editorial process Updated on January 09, 2023 Fact checked by Marley Hall Fact checked by Marley Hall LinkedIn Marley Hall is a writer and fact-checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Newborns can require a diaper change as many as 12 times a day, so a changing pad is a nursery must-have. This handy piece of equipment should ensure that diaper changing time is as safe and comfortable as possible for your little one. Plus, it needs to be easy to use (and to clean) for you. Reviewed & Approved The Summer Contoured Changing Pad features a quilted, double-layered vinyl that's easy to clean while the plush padding keeps your baby comfortable and secure. If you want to splurge, we recommend the Keekaroo Peanut Changer. “Choose a changing pad that has a concave top part to place your baby. This not only offers some more comfort and cushioning but might provide some added security,” Nkeiruka Orajiaka, MBBS, a board-certified pediatrician, public health physician in Columbus, Ohio, and member of Buybuy Baby's Parenting Pros, tells Verywell Family. It's also important to note that a baby should never be left unattended on a changing pad, even when the safety straps are buckled. Before you make your purchase, there are several factors to take into consideration to ensure your changing pad meets both your and your baby's needs. Whether safety is your main concern, or you're looking for a product made from organic material, rest assured that the right changing mat is out there. We carefully reviewed the material and several other factors, including value, design, ease of cleaning, and safety guidance when reviewing products. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Summer Contoured Changing Pad at Amazon Jump to Review Keekaroo Peanut Changer at Amazon Jump to Review Best Organic: Naturepedic Organic Contoured Changing Pad at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Safety: LA Baby Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad at Amazon Jump to Review Best With Entertainment: Skip Hop Baby Changing Pad at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Changing Tables: Munchkin Secure Grip Changing Pad at Amazon Jump to Review Best Splurge: Hatch Baby Grow Smart Changing Pad at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Wiggly Babies: PooPoose Baby Changing Pad at Amazon Jump to Review Best Portable: Skip Hop Pronto Changing Station at Amazon Jump to Review Best Disposable: Munchkin Disposable Changing Pad at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Family Best Overall Summer Contoured Changing Pad 5 Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Babylist.com Pros High, curved sides Safety belt Durable, quilted layer Cons Not machine washable Slides easily on some surfaces The Summer Infant Contoured Changing Pad is our top pick because it has everything you want in a changing pad: It’s safe, comfortable, easy to clean, and affordable. The quilted, double-layered vinyl is ultra-simple to wipe down quickly, and the high contoured sides and plush padding keep baby comfortable and secure. There’s also a security strap underneath to keep the pad steady on a sturdy changing table, and a strap on the top can keep a fussy or wiggly infant safe during a diaper change. The material of the Summer Infant changing pad is lightweight but sturdy. Universal disposable covers fit the changing pad well, and it stays put on nearly any typical changing table. This changing pad is a great item to put on your baby registry. Price at time of publication: $28 Key Specs:Dimensions: 32.5 x 16.5 x 4 inches | Materials: Quilted, double-layered PEVA vinyl | Safety straps: Yes Keekaroo Peanut Changer Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Curated.com Pros Easy to clean Durable and cushy Safety belt Cons Material can feel cold against skin Costly Many parents rave about the Keekaroo, which has an ergonomic design that is comfortable for little ones and resistant to damage like cracks, discoloration, or stains over time. It has a soft but solid surface that makes it virtually impermeable to liquids and mess during diaper changes. Plus, thanks to its slip-resistant base, the Keekaroo can be used on a dresser or regular table without having to purchase an extra changing table specifically for diapering your little one. The only major complaint about the Keekaroo Peanut Changer is the price, as it’s heftier than most other changing pads. Still, we think it’s worth it for some families, as it saves time and energy while providing easy cleanup and long-lasting durability. Price at time of publication: $140 Key Specs:Dimensions: 32 x 17 x 4 inches | Materials: Polyurethane foam | Safety straps: Yes Best Organic Naturepedic Organic Contoured Changing Pad for Changing Table Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Potterybarnkids.com View On Naturepedic.com Pros Raised sides Can be drilled into furniture Waterproof coating Cons Easily slides if not secured Material bunches in middle Does your baby have sensitive skin? Prefer all your products to be all-natural? The Naturepedic Organic Cotton 4-Sided Contoured Changing Pad fits the bill to a T. Designed to be hypoallergenic and non-irritating, the Naturepedic changing pad has an organic cotton fill and is made of organic cotton fabric with food-grade polyethylene waterproofing. The pad is free of phthalates, formaldehyde, GMOs, latex, soy, vinyl, polyurethane foam, and flame retardants, meaning it doesn't have any potentially dangerous, toxic, or irritating substances. Plus, it meets eco-friendly and organic standards set by GREENGUARD and the Global Organic Textile Standard. The Naturepedic changing pad is especially plush and comfy, with thick padding and high contoured sides that keep little ones safe, secure, and cozy. The Naturepedic pad is about 16.5 x 31.5 x 4 inches, and your purchase includes a one-year warranty. Parents say it’s long-lasting and durable, and that its design minimizes rolling and wiggling. Price at time of publication: $129 Key Specs:Dimensions: 16.5 x 31.5 x 4 inches | Materials: 100% organic cotton | Safety straps: Yes The 8 Best Diaper Pails of 2023 Best for Safety LA Baby 4 Sided Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Bed Bath & Beyond Pros Four raised sides Non-skid bottom Outer cover is stain resistant/waterproof Cons Large footprint Hand-wash only If security is your main concern, the LA Baby Waterproof 4 Sided Cocoon Style Changing Pad will put your mind at ease. It has a slip-resistant base, four high contoured sides, and a safety harness with a quick release buckle—plus, it comes with two screws to mount it even more securely. It’s also made of nontoxic, hypoallergenic material and is anti-microbial, phthalate-free, and waterproof. As with all changing pads, you should never leave your child unattended even if the pad has extra security features. Many parents also choose this changing pad because, at around 30 inches, it’s compact enough to fit some changing tables that other changing pads don’t. But while it’s affordable, some parents say it eventually started cracking or that the material wasn’t as durable as they might have liked, so it might need replacing. Price at time of publication: $25 Key Specs:Dimensions: 30 x 16 x 4 inches | Materials: Vinyl cover, polyester fill | Safety straps: Yes The Best Diaper Bags to Tote Your Little One's Gear Best With Entertainment Skip Hop Nursery Style Baby Changing Pad Source: Amazon View On Amazon View On Kohls.com View On Skiphop.com Pros Toy bar keeps baby entertained Easy to wipe clean Safety belt Cons Mirror toy doesn't directly face the baby Diaper changes might not be very fun, but that doesn't mean your little one can't be entertained. This cushy changing pad features a tuck-away bar with dangling sun and cloud mirror toys to engage your baby's gaze. The foam material is easy to wipe clean, and the safety belt and non-skid bottom keep the pad (and baby) secure. Price at time of publication: $80 Key Specs:Dimensions: 18.25 x 2.6 x 31.5 inches | Materials: Foam | Safety straps: No Best for Changing Tables Munchkin Secure Grip Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Munchkin.com Pros Safety straps Lightweight Budget-friendly Cons Pad may slide around Too small for some changing tables The Munchkin Secure Grip Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad is one of the most affordable options on the market. With a compact design that fits most dressers and typical changing tables, it also boasts easily cleanable material and an ultra-secure grip base, making it helpful for those with wiggly babies. Especially when it's new, the Munchkin pad may have a bit of a chemical smell, so consider letting it air out for a few days after unboxing it. Price at time of publication: $35 Key Specs:Dimensions: 31.5 x 16.2 x 4.3 inches | Materials: Polyurethane foam, non-phthalate polyvinyl chloride, cardboard, thermoplastic elastomer, polypropylene, polyacetel | Safety straps: Yes What Our Editors Say "The best thing about this changing pad is the gripped feet on the bottom of it that help it stay in place—a huge plus as our son got older (and squirmier!) during changes. And while most standard changing pad covers will fit the dimensions of this pad, I love how easy the material is to wipe clean after changes." —Ashleigh Morley, Commerce Editorial Director Best Splurge Hatch Baby Grow Smart Changing Pad Courtesy of BuyBuyBaby View On Amazon View On Buybuy BABY View On Potterybarnkids.com Pros Can be used as changing pad or scale Easy to clean Safety belt Cons Heavy Changing pad is hard/cold We love the many different features of this durable baby changing pad, including its user-friendly app and easy upkeep. This changing pad doubles as a scale, so you can check your baby’s weight during a diaper change. While the app is required to use the scale, you don’t need the app to use the changing pad itself.We appreciate the changing pad’s easy-to-clean material, which you can wipe off with a soft, damp cloth. Plus, it has a safety belt to keep your little one secure. Price at time of publication: $150 Key Specs:Dimensions: 29 x 16 x 3.5 inches | Materials: ABS plastic | Safety straps: Yes Best for Wiggly Babies PooPoose Baby Changing Pad with Secure Strap Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Swaddle-like strap Waterproof cover Safety anchors Cons Cover not included If your little one is a squirmer, consider this changing pad from PooPoose. Some babies may not like the feel of a traditional safety belt, so this changing pad features patented swaddle-like straps to keep your little one still (and cozy!). The foam pad itself is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean, while the adjustable straps are machine-washable. It also comes with safety anchors to securely attach the pad to your changing table. Plus, we appreciate the contoured shape to keep your kiddo safe and snug. Price at time of publication: $80 Key Specs:Dimensions: 32 x 16 x 3.5 inches | Materials: Recycled Foam | Safety straps: Yes Best Portable Skip Hop 202206 Pronto Changing Station Amazon View On Amazon View On Buybuy BABY View On Bed Bath & Beyond Pros Travel-friendly Pockets for any necessities Different patterns/colors available Cons Not machine washable Could use more cushion Perfect for families on the go, this changing pad has pockets for your baby’s necessities and a compact design for easy transport. Whether you're stashing it in the diaper bag for a trip to the store or packing for a family vacation, this changing pad’s foldable design and included carrying strap come in handy.Measuring 23.5 x 21.75 inches, it’s big enough for little ones to lie on during a diaper change. While the changing pad isn’t machine washable, you can spot-clean it with mild detergent. Price at time of publication: $30 Key Specs:Dimensions: 11.75 x 4 x 8.25 (closed); 23.5 x 21.75 inches (open) | Materials: Polyester | Safety straps: No Best Disposable Munchkin Arm & Hammer Disposable Changing Pad Source: Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Munchkin.com Pros Great in a pinch Travel-friendly Odor elimination technology Cons Single use Costly to replace frequently Toting a bulky changing pad around can be a hassle. These disposable changing pads are easy to toss into your diaper bag, use once, and then discard. The ten disposable pads in the pack are infused with baking soda to combat odor, while the leakproof liner prevents liquid from seeping through. While not ideal for everyday use, these pads are great for families on the go. Price at time of publication: $7 Key Specs:Dimensions: 18 x 26.75 inches | Materials: Paper | Safety straps: No How We Selected the Best Changing Pads We chose the best changing pads by researching reviews from customers and competitors, and by examining the features of dozens of changing pads on the market. We considered design, features, price, ease of cleaning, material, and safety when making our picks. We also consulted with Nkeiruka Orajiaka, MBBS, board-certified pediatrician, public health physician in Columbus, Ohio, and member of Buybuy Baby's Parenting Pros. Additionally, we reviewed guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics to determine the safety and health criteria for this purchase. What to Look for in a Changing Pad Design A diaper-changing pad should provide comfort and safety for the little one who will spend a lot of time on it. Look for changing pads with features like a three-sided or contoured design with additional cushioning to keep babies comfortable and protect their heads. “Choose a changing pad that has a concave top part to place your baby. This not only offers some more comfort and cushioning but might provide some added security,” Dr. Orajiaka says. Waterproof Protection It’s essential to make sure the changing pad has waterproof protection because, with babies, anything (messy) can happen. Some changing pads come with a waterproof cover, or the pad itself can be easily wiped off. You just want to make sure liquid can't leak into the pad, which could cause mildew or mold. Whether the changing pad is waterproof or the cover is, double-check the manufacturer’s recommendations for how to clean it all. “Changing areas are huge breeding areas for both viruses and bacteria. Urine and feces are considered dirty, and if not cleaned off a surface, [they] can serve as a focus for most of these bugs to continue to grow,” explains Dr. Orajiaka. “When you place a baby on an unclean surface continuously, they may not only put their skin at risk of rash or irritation, but babies also touch all surfaces they are placed on and put their hands in the mouth. This can put them at risk of also getting sick from these bugs.” Safety Straps As you’re shopping for a changing pad, look for one with safety straps, as they’re vital for keeping your baby safe during a diaper change. Many changing pads come with adjustable straps and a buckle so you can adjust to the proper size. Some changing pads also feature anchoring straps, so you can attach them to a table or dresser to ensure additional safety while changing your baby. “Safety straps are recommended. If possible, choose ones with two straps; one that adjusts to tighten around the baby and the other to secure to the table,” Dr. Orajiaka says. Frequently Asked Questions What is the best type of changing pad? The best type of changing pad is safe, comfortable, and waterproof to make diaper changing a pleasant experience for both you and your baby. If your little one has sensitive skin, a changing pad made from hypoallergenic and nontoxic materials might be the right choice.“Fragrance-free, gentle cleaning solutions are always best for all baby items. However, every baby is different, so discussing your options with your child’s provider is best. Also, you may need to try out some before you find what works,” says Dr. Orajiaka.For families with a wiggly baby during diaper changes, a changing pad with anti-roll contours and a safety strap might be the best option. If you still have concerns about your baby rolling off, simply move the changing pad lower, Dr. Orajiaka recommends. “If possible, place the changing pad on a much lower surface such as the floor instead of a high table,” she adds. Is it worth it to buy an expensive changing pad? Until your little one becomes potty trained, they will need their diaper changed upwards of 3,500 times. So investing in a changing pad that saves you time (a pad that is easy to clean) and money (one secure enough to lay on top of any surface, meaning you can forgo buying a dedicated changing table), could be a good idea. What’s more, investing in a changing pad that stands the test of time means that you have the option of using it for more than one child.However, there are plenty of safe, comfortable and easy to clean changing pads that are also affordable, so don't feel any pressure to spend more than you want to. What do I need to look for when buying a changing pad? Before looking for a changing pad, think about where and how you are likely to use it. Does it need to be compact enough to fit on top of a changing table? Does it need to be portable? Hypoallergenic? If you are planning on using it in an elevated position—such as a changing table or dresser—a security strap is vital. If changing on the floor, anti-roll contours will be invaluable once your baby starts to become more mobile. A textured base will also prevent your changing pad from slipping around if you need to place it on a hard surface, such as a tabletop. “Changing tables make it easier for parents to change their babies (dress or diaper), but they have a higher risk of babies falling off. To prevent falls, be sure to gather all your changing supplies before you place your baby on the table, that way you will not be tempted to leave them to grab another item,” suggests Dr. Orajiaka, adding that a safety strap should always be buckled, but don’t only depend on the buckle. “Always buckle the straps while changing a baby, but don’t depend on this alone to keep your baby safe. Stay with your baby at all the time while changing and avoid distractions. When you are done changing, remove your baby from the table first and to a safer location before removing your dirty diapers or clothing.”Also take into consideration how easy it is to clean, since it may see some major messes. “With cleaning, remember to wipe off the changing pad after every use. Urine and possibly stool can seep out while changing and you may not notice. You should wipe down with [a] paper towel or baby wipes first, then with disinfectant wipes. You can also wash with soap and water if you prefer to avoid chemicals. Then air dry before next use,” explains Dr. Orajiaka. How many changing pads do I need to buy? If space and budget allow, having an extra or two might make life easier, but one changing pad is all you really need. “This depends on so many factors: Are there multiple changing stations in the home? Are there plans for travel, etc?” asks Dr. Orajiaka, explaining that “one pad can certainly work as long as it is kept clean and checked frequently for breakdown or broken pieces. For convenience, families may also decide to buy more to avoid moving changing pads from place to place.”For example, if you live in a two-story house, having one changing pad upstairs and one downstairs will be more convenient than having to navigate the stairs every time you need to change the baby. Having a separate, portable changing pad that you keep in your diaper bag is also a worthwhile investment for on-the-go diaper changes. Do changing pads come in a standard size? Changing pads differ in dimensions, with the average size being approximately 17.5 x 27.5 inches. If you have a particular spot that you are planning to keep and use your changing pad, measure the space before you buy it to ensure that it fits. If you are using your changing pad on a changing table, dresser or another elevated position and is too big, it poses a safety risk. However, you may want to ensure that your changing pad is large enough to see you through to toddlerhood. Why Trust Verywell Family Katrina Cossey has been a digital content producer and news and feature writer for more than six years. She has covered local and national news as well as writing and researching parenting topics. Katrina is a parent herself and bought the Munchkin Secure Grip Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad for her kiddo's diaper changes. She loved the changing pad's easy-to-clean material and restraint belt for extra security. 4 Sources Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. UL greenguard certification program. UL.com Seitenwerkstatt D. The Standard - worldwide leading for organic textile production - GOTS. Global-Standard.org Make baby’s room safe: parent checklist. HealthyChildren.org. Thaman LA, Eichenfield LF. Diapering habits: A global perspective. Pediatr Dermatol. 2014;31 Suppl 1:15-8. doi:10.1111/pde.12468 See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit