byBlake Bakkila
Medically Reviewed by Gina Posner, M.D., F.A.A.P.
| May 2, 2025
What to Expect selects products based on real-life testing conducted by staff, contributors and members our user community, as well as independent research and expert feedback; learn more about our review process. Prices and details are accurate as of the published date. We may earn commissions from shopping links.
Quick Summary
The best changing pad is the Keekaroo Peanut Changer, according to testers from the What to Expect staff and user community. When choosing a changing pad, parents say it’s most important to consider the material and how easy it is to clean.
Our Top Picks
Best Affordable Changing Pad Summer Infant Contoured Changing Pad With Liner
Jump to Review $29.99 See at Amazon Best Disposable Changing Pad NorthShore Premium Disposable Baby Changing Pads
Jump to Review $17.49 See at Amazon Best Changing Pad with Entertainment Skip Hop Nursery Style Wipe-Clean Changing Pad
Jump to Review $79.99 See at Amazon Best Changing Pad With Removable Covers Munchkin Secure Grip Baby Diaper Changing Pad with Cover
Jump to Review $38.99 See at Amazon - Jump to Review
Best Changing Station Set Pottery Barn Kids Quinn Changing Station
$199 show all show less
To prep for my son’s arrival roughly a year ago, I not only built up a hefty stash of diapers and wipes, but also purchased an equally important diaper-changing essential: a changing pad.
Knowing just how many diaper changes were in my future — the average newborn can poop four times a day! — I wanted to provide my little one with a secure, hygienic and yes, comfy, spot to lay. But picking just one proved harder than I thought. There are numerous options available, including those with built-in lights and distracting toys. And while the What to Expect community forums are filled with arguments about why you should forgo one, I honestly don’t know what I would do without mine.
Sure, I’ll set up a de facto changing station on a hotel bed or the trunk of my car in a pinch, but having one as a permanent fixture in my baby’s nursery has taken the guesswork out of finding a safe and sanitary spot to change my son’s diaper — especially when there isn’t a moment to spare to do so. In fact, I’m so pro-changing pads that I actually own three! One for the nursery and two that I keep in my car or diaper bag (more on that below).
How I Chose the Best Changing Pads
Based on my personal experience and feedback from What to Expect staff and community members on which features they appreciate the most, I discovered that the best changing pads are:
- Big enough to grow with your child
- Constructed with easy-to-clean materials like foam or vinyl
- Equal parts firm and comfortable
These factors were taken into account when creating my initial list. To whittle down the choices further, I utilized guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to ensure that all the changing pads include safety features, like a non-skid bottom and attached safety strap to prevent roll-off falls. Additionally, all have a concave design, which, according to the AAP, helps keep baby in place. (That said, you should always keep one hand on baby while changing them.)
Why Trust Us?
What to Expect is the world’s most trusted pregnancy and parenting brand for a reason. Our product recommendations are based on expert parent insight, advice from medical professionals and feedback from the millions of parents and parents-to-be in our community. Our editors adhere to the highest research and reporting standards and our team of vetted OB/GYNs, pediatricians and other health professionals ensure our recommended products are safe and effective for you and your baby.
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Best Overall Changing Pad
Keekaroo Peanut Changer
Photo credit: Keekaroo
Pros
- Wipe clean surface
- Water- mold- and bacteria-resistant
- JPMA-certified
- 5 year warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- May be cold to the touch
Weight:7 pounds
Dimensions:17 x 32 x 4 inches
Material:Polypropylene
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
This durable,peanut-shaped changer is made of a non-toxic, BPA-free material that parents say is super easy to wipe clean after diaper changes (yes, even the really messy ones!). Additionally, this pad is water-resistant, so fluid won’t seep in and lead to mold or bacteria growth.
Although it has a firm surface, parents find it surprisingly soft for baby’s comfort. (That said, some say it can be cold for baby during cooler months.) This changing pad is sturdy and has substantial weight to it, which helps keep it firmly in place during diaper changes, in addition to its slip-resistant bottom. It's a great dresser changing pad because you won't have to buy any additional materials to make it stay.
“We loved the Keekaroo for its sleek and neutral design. It also sat perfectly on top of our daughter's dresser,” says Olivia DeLong, Senior Health Editor with What to Expect. “It was SO easy to clean — just wipe down with soap and water.”
“We love that it's so soft and my baby can kick around without hurting his feet,” adds Tika Fender, Senior Art Director.
Despite the price, many reviewers say it’s held up during multiple years of use, while others, including Tika, say they’ve purchased a second one to keep elsewhere in their house or at a grandparent’s house. Many parents also comment on the Keekaroo’s longevity.
“We got it about three and a half years ago, and while it's in storage now, looks the same as we did when we first got it,” says Olivia.
Stephen Klop, Director of Product Management, appreciated how easy it was to keep the Keekaroo sanitary and said it “held up well with two kids, but we had the light grey version and there was discoloration over time.”
Because of its unusual shape, make sure to measure the area you’re planning to use the pad before purchasing. Some parents found it to be a tight fit for a changing table with guardrails.
Community Reviews
aah11
“We have it and highly recommend! It is so easy to keep clean!”
goheels1
“Love it! It’s really easy to clean and sturdy. A bit heavy actually, which is nice if you plan on using on top of a dresser or something.”
ACHSK
“I LOVE this product. I have two because I needed one in my parents house as well. It’s the best, is comfortable for the baby/toddler, easy to clean. I still change my toddler on it!”
ralphieboo
“I love the Keekaroo. My babe peed sooooo many times during diaper changes and the poop sitch can be so messy. I would never want to deal with the extra hassle and laundry. Or any extra layers etc. It’s so easy to wipe clean and done. She has never cared about being directly on the pad.”
b455
“The keekaroo peanut is the absolute best. My friend made us put it on our registry with my first and it was one of our best baby items.”
Best Portable Changing Pad
Skip Hop Pronto Baby Changing Pad
Photo credit: Skip Hop
Pros
- Includes mesh and zippered pockets
- Has handle and stroller strap
- Includes case for wipes
Cons
- Not for use on elevated surface
Weight:12 ounces
Dimensions:21.5 x 36 x 0.25 inches
Material:Polyvinyl chloride
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
TheSkip Hop Pronto has been a game-changer for my family: It doubles as an easy-to-clean portable changing pad and an on-the-go storage solution for all your diapering needs. I take full advantage of the two zippered compartments, where I stuff wipes and rash creams, and keep my diapers in the additional mesh pocket. It’s at the top of my packing list whenever we travel, and I don’t leave home without it. It’s accompanied us on more than a dozen flights and several trips to Disneyland, though it’s just as handy for an extra layer at a restaurant restroom. I love that it carries a lot, but folds into a compact clutch that slips easily into diaper bags. Additionally, other reviews note the smoothness of the surface, making it surprisingly easy to wipe clean. Plus, it even has a clip to attach directly to your stroller.
Community Reviews
cc3491
“I have the skip hop one and love it. It has a little pad for their head. Easily wipeable for the baby poops that seem to get everywhere!”
“I did like the Skip Hop Pronto change kit, and would carry that in either my diaper bag or an old backpack. It made changes easy no matter where we were when babe was NB. Now it lives in the bottom of the Chariot for emergencies so still a handy piece to have.”
Best Affordable Changing Pad
Summer Infant Contoured Changing Pad With Liner
Photo credit: Summer Infant
Pros
- Soft
- Waterproof
- Includes machine-washable liner
Cons
- Some reviewers claim this is not as easy to clean as other pads
Weight:0.032 ounces
Dimensions:32 x 16 x 3.5 inches
Material:PEVA vinyl
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
This affordable pick checks the most important box: It’s a safe, secure space to place your baby down during diaper changes, complete with high sides and a strap. Parents love how softthis pad is, especially when compared to the hard surfaces of other options. In fact, Lisafe Carreon, Senior Product Manager at What to Expect, found the Summer Infant was a huge success with her daughter when it came to comfort. “We used the Keekaroo but had to change it as she would cry when she would be on it,” she says, noting that she thought the Keekaroo was too cold and hard for her. “We changed to the Summer Infant and she loved it.”
Leah Rocketto, What to Expect’s Associate Commerce Director, also appreciated the Summer Infant pad’s softness, as well as the slight concave design. “Even though our changing table had guardrails, I felt a little extra sense of security knowing the pad itself had ‘walls’ so to speak.”
Both Leah and Lisa say the pad’s surface easily wipes clean, though it also comes with a machine-washable liner. You can also do as Leah did, and choose from a selection of changing pad covers in a range of adorable designs and patterns to add a design element to your nursery. Some reviewers say messes can soak through the surface of this pad, but most say using the liner should prevent messes from getting through to the interior foam.
Community Reviews
starbaby90
“for the changer table I get this one from Walmart. its cheap. last the [whole] time I need it. I just leave a receiving blanket on it and change it once a day or sooner if there's a mess (which isn't as common as some people say).”
Best Organic Changing Pad
Naturepedic Organic Cotton Changing Pad
Photo credit: Naturepedic
Buying Options
Amazon
$129
Nordstrom
$129
$109
Pros
- Waterproof
- Hypoallergenic
- Global Organic Textile Standard- and Greenguard Gold-certified
Cons
- Expensive
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
Parents rave about the Naturepedic changing pad, specifically the thick, organically-sourced cotton padding that’s comfortable for baby. Although the Naturepedic is expensive, it’s made of extremely high-quality materials. The organic cotton is Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified, which means it meets strict environmental guidelines for how it is produced, and Greenguard Gold-certified, which means it has been tested for chemicals that are potentially harmful to air quality. What’s more is that the waterproof surface is naturally derived from sugarcane, and parents say it’s smooth and easy to wipe clean.
Weight: 2 pounds
Dimensions: 16.5 x 31.5 x 4 inches
Material: Cotton
Community Reviews
sbr0710
“I also highly recommend the Naturepedic changing pad. Soft enough to use without a cover, and easy to wipe clean. Doesn't have that nasty plastic feel to it.”
Best Disposable Changing Pad
NorthShore Premium Disposable Baby Changing Pads
Photo credit: NorthShore
Pros
- Easy to pack
- Absorbent
- Waterproof backing
- Latex-free
Cons
- Not an environmentally friendly option
Weight:1.5 pounds
Count:25 per pack
Dimensions:17 x 24 inches
Material:Cotton
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
Confession: I am a bit of a germaphobe. And while motherhood has certainly made me more easygoing in this department, it hasn’t stopped me from taking every precaution in making sure an impromptu diapering station is hygienic. And thesedisposable changing pads are my secret weapon for doing so. Whether my family is traveling near or far, I typically lay one of these down first over a flat surface, such as a public restroom station, before topping it with the Skip Hop Pronto. It’s slightly excessive, I admit, but worth the ease of mind (hence why I always have two changing pads on hand!). Each features an absorbent lining and a waterproof backing to contain messes and prevent leakage. Many reviewers attest to the absorbency, claiming that it even holds up to blowouts (hear, hear!).
Community Reviews
momandtot
“[G]et the disposable pee pads. I found this out quick with my son. best and easiest thing to use. if it gets dirty, throw it away, if not, reuse it. makes your life easy.”
a90
“I had a washable liner on the changing pad itself, but didn’t want something else to wash every single day. So I covered the washable liner with disposable ones. I had to have an emergency C-Section so I tried to make things as easy as possible while I was recovering from surgery.”
Best Changing Pad with Entertainment
Skip Hop Nursery Style Wipe-Clean Changing Pad
Photo credit: Skip Hop
Buying Options
Amazon
$79.99
Target
$80
Skip Hop
$80
Pros
- Wipe-clean design
- Contoured format
- Mobile detachable (but it’s a great distraction)
- Comfy for baby
- Seatbelt-like buckle strap
Cons
- Pricey
Weight: 5 pounds
Dimensions: 31.5 x 18.25 x 2.5 inches
Material: 90% SAR foam, 10% PA
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
For those who want more than a wipe-clean design in their changing pad, I’d like to direct you to the Skip Hop Nursery Style Wipe-Clean Changing Pad. Not only is the non-skid contoured foam resistant to staining and holding odors, but it also features an entertaining mobile. The latter is especially helpful when it comes to distracting fussy or squirmy babes; parents share the cloud-shaped mirror and sun has successfully held their little one’s attention even during the worst blowouts (although some taller users noted they’ve bumped their heads on it when tackling the chore — thankfully, it’s removable). Parents also have their choice between two neutral colorways: gray and oat.
Most also shared that it was comfortable and didn’t feel too cold for their babies (a common complaint of other foam pads!), but the one recurring “con” was that it’s quite pricey compared to other options, despite being cheaper than my overall pick.
Community Reviews
katpro22
I have used the Skip Hop rubber changing pad with my first kid and love it. We have always had it on her dresser.
crocodilemom3
We have the Skip Hop one and love it. We put a down cotton baby blanket if it’s cold.
lilmommmyyy
I got the skip hop one! It’s a little cheaper than the keekaroo but works just the same and comes with a cute mobile!
Best Changing Pad Dupe
Jool Baby Waterproof Changing Pad
Photo credit: Jool Baby
Buying Options
Pros
- Popular design at a lower price point
- Easy to clean
- Multiple colorways
Cons
- Too slippery for some
- May stain
Weight: 3.3 pounds
Dimensions: 15.75 x 30.8 x 3.5 inches
Material: Polyurethane
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
At half the cost of the Keekaroo, many parents have hailedJool’s new changing pad as the ultimate “dupe.” Made with a similar, easy-to-wipe polyurethane foam, it offers a lot of the same benefits for less than $100. Parents were pleased to report that it’s a handy item for baby’s nursery and didn’t slide around on a dresser or other flat surfaces. As a bonus, there are also five colorways to match any nursery theme, including a match for Keekaroo’s best-selling Oatmeal (though some reviews mention slight staining can occur). Parents rave the squishy pad is somehow both soft and firm — hello, Goldilocks! — and the durability, noting it’s a breeze to keep clean.
Just keep in mind that some did note that it was slippery for their babies, and that it was sometimes difficult to change extra-squirmy little ones.
Community Reviews
qwnmac15
I have this one. I used it for the twins I fostered and I really liked it. THEY really liked it and we’re comfortable on it. But I’d buy some extra covers and/or put a blanket or something over top for when it gets messy. I had it on the counter in my bathroom which was nice for nighttime changes. I’m planning on buying another one to put on the dresser in his room.
smallfry1228
"This is what I got, kept it cheap and simple"
tiff0605
If you are thinking keekaroo simply because you can wipe it down rather than wash covers then check these out. Same type of foam material but far cheaper since they don’t have the fancy name
Best Changing Pad With Removable Covers
Munchkin Secure Grip Baby Diaper Changing Pad with Cover
Photo credit: Munchkin
Pros
- Affordable
- Waterproof plastic liner over contoured foam
- Multiple safety measures (straps and grippy strips on bottom)
- Option to ship with machine-washable covers
Cons
- Have to wash cover
Weight: 2.1 pounds
Dimensions: 16.5 x 31.5 x 4.5 inches
Material: Foam, plastic and polyester
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It
While I can see why parents love wipeable changing pads, there is an indisputable benefit of going the washable cover route, especially if you’re concerned about baby feeling warm. AndMunchkin’s Secure Grip Changing Pad provides the best of both worlds. Alone, the waterproof, plastic pad is still easy enough to disinfect and keep clean. There are also four, grippy strips that lock it into place, preventing the pad from slipping around like a rug on a kitchen floor. And thanks to the rectangular size, it’s not only compatible with most dressers and changing tables but covers and liners. You can go with Munchkin’s neutral, white offering, or have fun switching up colors and patterns.
Community Reviews
lindsss05
I got this munchkin one (link below). And a graco one that’s exactly the same. One is upstairs and one is in the living room. And I got some covers for them. They’ve been perfect. My daughter is 2 and we still use them for her. They are never cold with the cover on them and super easy to disinfect with a wipe down. They’re light and can be put anywhere which I love about them and attach to the dresser so it doesn’t slip off. You really don’t need an expensive changing mat!
DogMomNewMomX2
The munchkin secure grip waterproof changing pad from target has served us well! Still going strong almost 2 years later that we got with our first!
gumdr0ps
"We used the Munchkin waterproof changing pad with a washable cover. Even at $30 I feel it is overpriced for a changing pad…"
1mamma
yes I have one like this too! I just threw a cover on it then grabbed some little waterproof liners from target! Then it’s easy clean up if it gets messy & you just wash the liner with the laundry and toss a new liner on in the meantime. Barely had to wash the actual cover because the liner caught any mess
Best Changing Station Set
Pottery Barn Kids Quinn Changing Station
Photo credit: Pottery Barn Kids
Pros
- Aesthetically pleasing set
- Easy to wipe clean
- Made for PBK dressers
Cons
- Pricey
- Need to purchase pad separately
Weight: N/A
Dimensions: 16 x 32 x 4.5 inches
Material: Vinyl
Why We Love It
So many of my friends invested in the Keekaroo and fastened it on top of their dressers, but I wanted a piece that could create a full “station.” When I was designing my son’s coastal-themed nursery, I was immediately drawn to theQuinn collection at Pottery Barn Kids. The woven rattan and metal frame, which I paired with the company’svinyl changing pad insert ($59), was more than just aesthetically pleasing — the two compartments on the right are the perfect storage spot for wipes and extra diapers. You’ll need to purchase the pad and optional covers separately, and while it’s certainly on the pricier side, I’ve loved this investment so much that I couldn’t resist scooping up the matching hamper!
Our Research
I referenced changing padsafety guidelines from the AAP.
Additionally, several What to Expect staff members shared their insights, including:
- Jeanne Beacom, Campaign Performance Manager, parent of a 2-year-old
- Lisafe Carreon, Senior Product Manager, parent of 8-month-old
- Olivia DeLong, Senior Health Editor, parent of 2-year-old
- Tika Fender, Senior Art Director, parent of 5-month-old
- Stephen Klop, Director of Product Management, parent of 6- and 3-year-olds
- Leah Rocketto, Associate Commerce Director, parent of a 1-year-old
Finally, I canvassed What to Expect’s community boards to learn which changing pads parents liked best and what features they most appreciated.
FAQs
Are changing pads necessary?
Although you can (and almost certainly will from time to time) change your baby’s diaper on the floor, a designated space for diaper changes can help simplify your life (and save your back!) during your baby’s diaper-wearing years. You may want to invest in a tabletop changing pad for your nursery as well as a portable pad for your diaper bag. That said, you can also always use a blanket, disposable pad or other item to change your baby on the floor of your home, in the car or while out and about.
How long do babies use a changing pad?
A changing pad will most likely be a major player in your new parent arsenal until your child is potty trained. You might also start changing diapers on the floor once you have a squirmy toddler on your hands because it’s often easier — and safer — to change them this way, which you could do without a designated changing pad.
Are changing pads a universal size?
The dimensions and shape can vary, but changing pads are typically pretty similar in size. You’ll want to measure your dresser or changing table first before purchasing a pad to make sure it’ll fit.
Do you need a cover for a changing pad?
If you’re using a mattress-style changing pad, you’ll want to put a washable or disposable cover on it. Many changing pads, however, are made with materials that wipe clean easily. These types of changing pads don’t require a cover, but you can add a liner to soften the surface a bit or catch big messes. In fact, most WTE parents swear by BlueSnail.One mom writes that the brand’swaterproof, quilted liners were “lifesavers because our son did pee on us almost every day for the first couple of months, haha,” and adds that she knows of those who purchased the Keekaroo and still used these liners, as the foam was too cold on their backs.
Looking for more exciting designs? No sweat — Mushie’s 100% cotton liners also come highly recommended by WTE community members. Sold in packs of three, choose betweencheckerboard andfloral color combos, though all feature an invisible water-repellent layer to combat messy babies.
View Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics,Make Baby's Room Safe: Parent Checklist, August 2020.
