Changing table topper for IKEA chests of drawers

Some DIY projects are born from a simple idea - like our self-built changing table topper for the IKEA chest of drawers. Our friends Sanja & Franz were faced with the challenge of creating a practical and safe changing station in their small flat. As Franz is a real craftsman, he decided without further ado to build the perfect changing table topper for the IKEA SONGESAND chest of drawers himself. With great attention to detail and clever solutions, he created a functional DIY changing unit with extra storage space. The idea is also suitable for other chests of drawers. You can also build a changing table topper for the IKEA HEMNES or MALM chest of drawers. Here we show you how they did it - and whether it's really worth building it yourself!

Dimensions for the MDF panels

• A (WxH) 76.2 x 9 cm x 12 mm thick ; 2 pieces
• B (WxH) 79.1 x 9 cm x 12 mm thick ; 1 piece
• C (WxH) 79.6 x 101.3 cm x 8 mm thick ; 1 piece
• D (WxH) 79.6 x 91.1 cm x 8 mm thick ; 1 piece
• E (WxH) 81.5 x 27.5 cm x 19 mm thick ; 1 piece
• F (WxH) 77.2 x 10 cm x 12 mm thick ; 1 piece
• G (WxH) 52.2 x 10 cm x 12 mm thick ; 1 piece
• H (WxH) 79.6 x 26.9 cm x 12 mm thick ; 3 pieces

Step 1: Build the Changing pad frame and screw it together

The plan: The changing table topper should not only be stable, but also safe and comfortable for their baby. Franz and Sanja also wanted to attach an additional shelf with storage space to the back side of the chest of drawers so that wet wipes etc. are always to hand.

1. Screwing the frame together: Screw the two side panels (A) to the backsplash (B) to form a U-shaped frame.
2. Stabilisation: Attach the extension of the base (E) to the frame from below to ensure additional stability.
3. Rounding & smoothing: To avoid unsightly edges, round off the corners with sandpaper or a router.

Tip: Pre-drilling is important to prevent the wood from splintering!

Step 2: Mounting on the chest of drawers

Now the changing table topper just had to be attached to the IKEA SONGESAND chest of drawers.

1. Removing the IKEA lid: The lid of the IKEA chest of drawers must first be removed. To do this, use the instructions from IKEA chest of drawers.
2. Attaching the top unit: Screw the side parts (A) of the nappy changing unit directly to the lid from below.

Please note: The lid is only refitted once the rear shelf has been attached!

Step 3: Rear shelf for more storage space

1. Build the shelf plinth: Screw the side panels (G & F) together to form a stable U-shaped plinth.
2. Attach the shelves: Insert the shelves (H) at the desired height and screw them to the backsplash (D) and the wall (C).
3. Assembly on the chest of drawers: Screw the finished shelf firmly to the chest of drawers before reassembling the IKEA cover with changing table topper.

Step 4: Assemble the changing unit

1. Changing table topper assemble: Reattach the lid of the IKEA chest of drawers together with the changing table topper to the chest of drawers.
2. Changing pad: Complete the changing table topper with a comfortable Changing pad. Sanja and Franz have the Changing padand the frame from Limmaland. It fits perfectly on the self-built changing table topper.
3. Set up and decorate: Now just fill the drawer of the chest of drawers and attach accessories such as a mobile or drawer handles. The changing unit is ready for use.

Even though DIY construction requires a little planning and craftsmanship, Sanja and Franz really enjoyed creating a customised solution for their home. If you like DIY and would like to create a customised changing unit, you'll find plenty of inspiration here.