In the past we've taken a look at different diy solutions for a changing table. Although some families don't need or want one, some spaces truly benefit from a dedicated changing table. And in some homes, a custom solution has worked out best. Here are a few examples:
1. Tool Cart Changing Table: Here, a tool cart was repurposed as a changing table and in a bright yellow no less. The locking wheels add versatility.
2. Kitchen Cart Changing Table: Similarly, this family used a wheeled kitchen cart. When it's outlived its usefulness, perhaps you can reuse it elsewhere in our outside your home (a plant holder in the backyard perhaps?)
3. Metro Shelving Changing Table: Metro shelving is easily found at any big box retailer and once a month or so it goes on sale. It's inexpensive and with a little retrofitting for comfort it's an easy and inexpensive option for a changing table.
4. Mid Century Dresser Changing Table: Mid century dressers are always popular and there's good reason why. Their profile isn't very deep and they're so darn attractive. The only question is, will you keep it and make it an entertainment center, sell it, or let it stay in the nursery when your diapering days are done?
Do you have a great repurposed item you use for diaper changes? Find a perfect piece of furniture on Craigslist? We'd love to see it, make sure you drop us a line!
(Images: 1. Nesting blog (now defunct) 2. via DaddyTypes) 3. CasaSugar 4. Living in the Family Room)





Ercol Bar Stool
I saw a picture several years ago of a nursery that used a potting bench as a changing table. I think it was in a magazine but can't remember when or which one. Of so little use to say that it was very cleverly done!
I'm all for adapting something to meet a change tables needs. One thing that is often over looked by design conscious new mums-to-be however, is the height. Your post baby back really does benefit from a change table that is about 900mm high. Often dressers are that little bit too low. Look so much cuter though and so much more longevity.
I really like the bright yellow tool box! When I don't need my changing table anymore I'm doing the opposite and turning it into a kitchen cart!
That third pic makes me nervous, my baby is sooo heavy I feel like he'd bust it.
I wasn't going to buy a changing table, but we were at Target and they had some Graco ones for 75% off. We took it home for 20 bucks and it's actually been great for storage and saving my back from having to bend over so much.
This is a great idea, but yeah, I think the height is an issue. That is back pain just waiting to happen.
I like those. To avoid unnecessary expense, we used the changing table that my parents in law used for their children (eldest is now 45). While I'm happy with the budget (what budget ?) and loved reusing something instead of buying something new, I have to admit: that is the most ugly rusty kitschy thing ever. We've been using it for two years, and as baby number two is on the way, I guess we're stuck with it for another 3 years. I wish I had one of those changing carts instead...
My husband just died for the tool cart changing table. LOL! It's a brightly manly addition to nursery. I like it.
We used a set of height adjustable trestle legs from ikea and a worktop (I think it is actually a section of butcher block counter top).
I don't see the specific trestle online anymore, but it has about 10 inches of height adjustment, so we were able to make it a good height for changing. And the large table surface gave us room for baskets of diapers, wipes, etc. The shelves in the trestle provided additional storage.
Now that we're done with the changing table, it is lowered and has become a desk in the guest room. And the plan is someday it will be my son's desk.
these are all very cool ideas! Next, I would love a post on how to repurpose a traditional changing table. I have a generic one that we are soon to be outgrowing. I don't want to just ditch it if I don't have to.
Wouldn't the second one be kind of slippery? Like the pad would slide around? Other than that, these look like good ideas.
Changing pad + floor = cheap, safe, genius
We have a small apartment so we used Ikea changing pad (with inflatable sides) on top of washing machine. Works fine with second, as it worked with the first one :)
Height is just as it should be, we're in the bathroom where all the action is taking place, and necessary stuff (cloth diapers, some clothes) are stuffed in on shelves and in handmade organizer. Picture here - http://www.flickr.com/photos/15749632@N07/3304196223/in/set-72157614353034116
I agree that height can be a concern, but to @elisha's concern about weight -- this utility cart is rated for 600lbs and includes (optional) locking wheels.