The Nappy Changing Table Guide: Height, Dimensions and Position of

Your

Nappy

Changing

Table – Making Sure Everything Fits!

The correct height, width and ideal position

of

your nappy changing table have a huge impact on how relaxed and ergonomically comfortable you can be whilst changing nappies. If the changing table is too low, back pain is inevitable – if the space is too cramped, chaos quickly ensues. To help you set up your changing area perfectly, here’s what you need to know about the ideal dimensions and changing heights, and where best to place the changing table in the nursery. This will help you create a safe, well-organised and stress-free nappy-changing area – for both you and your baby.

1. How tall should your changing table be?

You can easily work out the ideal height and dimensions of your changing table: for an ergonomic changing height, the distance between your elbow and the changing surface should be 10–15 cm. Measure the height from the floor to your elbow and subtract 10–15 cm from that. And there you have it – the perfect height for your nappy-changing area, without any back pain.

Body height	Changing height
160 cm	85 cm
170 cm	90 cm
180 cm	100 cm
190 cm	105 cm

Tip for couples of different heights

One challenge when choosing the ideal changing table is when parents are of very different heights. After all, both parents want to be able to change their baby comfortably. A good idea is therefore a sturdy step stool that the shorter partner can stand on whilst changing the nappy. Make sure the step stool is safe and sturdy and can be easily stowed away.

2. How big should the changing surface be?

To ensure your baby lies safely and comfortably on the changing table, the changing surface should be at least 80 cm wide and 70 cm deep. These dimensions provide plenty of space for your baby – even later on, when they move around more during nappy changes – whilst also leaving enough room for all your essential nappy-changing bits and bobs. A generous changing surface ensures that you can change nappies comfortably and safely for longer, without it feeling cramped or cluttered.

3. The ideal location for the changing table

Your nappy-changing area should be in a well-ventilated room with good lighting and a comfortable room temperature. The chest of drawers should also be accessible from all sides wherever possible, to make nappy changing as easy and comfortable as possible. If your bathroom is large enough, you’ll have the advantage of quick access to the tap. However, the changing table also works very well in the bedroom or the baby’s room. Make sure there’s a socket nearby. That way, you can easily incorporate a hairdryer or a heat lamp into your changing area.

Tips for setting up and organising your changing table

Organising your changing table

Handy organisers for your changing table

To make the most of the space in your drawer chest of drawers, you can use our clever organisers. These fit perfectly into the HEMNES and MALM chest of drawers. Clothes are sorted and stored upright – so everything is visible at a glance and within easy reach, helping you stay relaxed whilst changing nappies.

View the organisers

Find out more about nappy-changing fashion

Comparison: Which IKEA ‘ chest of drawers’ is the best changing table?