Your back may be aching for a good reason: during the first two weeks of life, a newborn will soil and wet twelve to sixteen diapers per day. Until your baby is walking (that's when diaper changing transitions into a sport known as "baby wrestling," which is sometimes better done on the ground), an elevated changing surface is optimal. You've got a choice: go for a single-function changing table and save yourself some bucks, or spend more for a changing surface that converts to a useful and stylish piece of furniture. — Nicole Feliciano
Celery Lullaboo Changing table - $815-$945
The team at Celery knows that play is a vital part of childhood. In turn, parents get a turn to play when selecting their Lullaboo changing table: more than a dozen color and finish choices are available. Furthermore, the inspired folks at Celery Designs give parents the option of ordering a chalkboard finish on one end of the table. It's best to order this piece in the second trimester, as it takes eight to ten weeks for delivery. But that's the only hassle you'll encounter. Thanks to mortise and tenon joinery, the only tool you'll need to assemble the Lullaboo is a mallet (which is provided). When you bid diapers a sweet farewell, the Lullaboo converts to a colorful bookshelf.
Changing Tables : Runners-up
Cariboo Folding Changing table - $260
The Cariboo is the ultimate in unobtrusive baby furniture. This slim folding table is made of sustainably-forested Radiata wood and comes with two finish options. But it's not really about looks; the beauty of this table is in its ability to disappear. Weighing a mere thirteen pounds, the collapsible table is ideal for small homes. Alternately, use this table to create an inconspicuous diapering station outside of the baby's room. The table is lined with a machine-washable fabric, so there's no need to buy a separate pad and cover.
NettoCollection Loft Changing Table - $1,450
Inspired by the birth of his first daughter, designer David Netto set out to fill a gap in the furniture market with his spare, stylish NettoCollection. Netto aimed to attract like-minded, relentlessly stylish parents to his creations. And he succeeded. If you're looking for a piece will seamlessly mesh with the other modern items in your contemporary home, you can easily rationalize spending more than a grand on the Loft Changing Table. Tuck unsightly baby gear in the single concealed drawer; other essentials can be neatly stored in the exposed cubbies. When you're ready to take this piece out of the kid zone, remove the changing table partitions and you've got a cool tray-topped cabinet. Wait, there's more good news: the changing table is shipped assembled (some minor work is required to attach the legs and door/drawer pulls).
Pottery Barn Berkeley Changing Table - $549
If you lean toward traditional interiors, Pottery Barn offers nearly a dozen classically designed dressers that also serve as changing tables. The Berkeley stands out, thanks to the built-in lip around the changing station (much safer than a flat surface) and ample storage space. There's a cubby on the top level — an ideal spot for the wipe container and lotions. On the second tier, there are three storage compartments (Pottery Barn sells Sabrina baskets that fit perfectly here), and then two drawers. The Berkeley is constructed with mostly pinewood; it's a sturdy piece that will last for a few rounds of parenting. Pottery Barn's comprehensive collection also offers coordinating cribs and chairs, if you're looking to build a matching nursery from scratch.
ducduc Morgan Dresser - $2,150
The ducduc Morgan Dresser is an investment in the future. With details like leather handles and a fully finished back, this walnut dresser will be around long after your child goes off to college. But let's not get ahead of ourselves; this is also a terrific changing table. It's outfitted with a safety strap and a removable changing station tray that will keep your baby safe and secure. The interiors are colored with an eye-catching orange lacquer. In keeping with the permanence of their furniture, the team at ducduc offer a "renewal program:" after four years, they'll pick up the furniture for a fee and refurbish it. Order in advance, because each handmade dresser requires ten weeks for delivery.