


This increases the likelihood of furniture being scrapped and sent to landfill, and also leaves you out of pocket if you then have to buy a separate storage unit. Models with inbuilt change pads or cushioned tops with rails are far harder to repurpose once your baby is past the diaper stage. Unfortunately, a small number of change tables are designed with just one purpose in mind. Some change tables have a removable top tray that can be repurposed as an upright shelf, leaving a simple dresser. Many such tables can go from being a change table to a dresser or desk with just a couple of easy adjustments. Like many of the more eco-friendly crib models, some change tables can be converted into other usable furniture as your baby grows.
#Baby change table tray free#
Again, though, if you choose a softwood change table, make sure it doesn’t feature MDF (typically in table tops and drawers or shelves) and that it is free from toxic finishes.Ĭhange tables are often sold to match cribs, so if you’ve already found a great non-toxic and eco-friendly crib, your best bet is to see if there’s a change table or dresser to complete the set. And if you’re planning on having multiple children, a softwood change table might not hold up as well as a hardwood option. They are less durable, though, with dings and scratches more easily visible. Softwood change tables are also a good option and are typically cheaper, lighter, and easier to move around. Ideally, the hardwood will be locally sourced and certified sustainably harvested by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). In general, a hardwood change table that is kiln dried and unfinished or treated only with natural oils such as linseed is your best bet for a non-toxic, eco-friendly nursery. And even then, check for a Greenguard Gold or CARB II certification to confirm they won’t overly impact the air quality in a nursery. MDF or manufactured wood is typically fused together with toxic glues, so unless a manufacturer explicitly states they don’t use the chemicals, be wary. Some change tables are made with hardwood, softwood, and medium density fiberboard (MDF), as well as plastic, metals, acrylic and other materials. These include formaldehyde, toluene, benzene, and other VOCs. These can all off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOC) that affect your health and the health of your baby. Jump to details What to look for and what to avoid in change tablesĬhange tables are typically made with a mix of manufactured wood, glues, plastics, and paints, varnish, or other finishes.
