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11 Best Changing Pads – Portable & Waterproof (2025 Reviews)

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Parenting can be a messy job, but it doesn’t need to be! When you need to heed the call of diaper duty, it is best to be as prepared as you possibly can be. Changing diapers is not usually fun, but it is possible that it can be a comfortable experience for your baby. In order to keep the surface padded and clean, it is important to choose a changing pad that will assist you when duty calls.

If you need some assistance navigating the world of baby changing pads, you’ve come to the right place! Here are our 11 best changing pads to help move you in the right direction.

The Best Changing Pads

  • 1. Babebay Portable Changing Pad

    (Best budget option — $)

    Why it’s great: Having all the diaper changing essentials that you need while on the go is extremely important as a parent. That’s why we love this Babebay Portable Changing Pad! It’s easy to store but provides a lot of room for your baby to lay on once unfolded. It’s soft, comfortable, and also includes a small pillow at the top where your baby’s head will lay. It’s convenient to use with one hand and folds up similar to a small clutch. Its lightweight design will fit simply into your purse or diaper bag, ready for you to use at any given moment.

    It is also made with waterproof materials. This means it can be quickly and easily cleaned, giving you more time to get back to running errands or group playtime. Plus, the price is the lowest on the list, making it the perfect budget option.

    Keep in mind: This changing pad doesn’t secure on to anything, so make sure to stay in attendance with your baby at all times. Consider changing your baby on a lower surface, or even on a clean floor, for maximum safety.

    Good for: Parents on a budget that need a good, portable changing pad.

    Babebay Portable Changing Pad

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Summer Contoured Changing Pad

    (Best value — $)

    Why it’s great: When you can find a product that is a great price, has a simple design, and that works well – that’s a win! This Summer Contoured Changing Pad is exactly that. It features a quilted vinyl material that is waterproof, as well as very easy to clean. Safety is a top priority with a quick-release safety belt to help ease your mind as you change your baby. The soft foam pad is comfortable for your baby with or even without a changing pad cover!

    Keep in mind: This pad features a non-skid bottom; however, some parents have mentioned that it does tend to wiggle a little bit. But, you can secure it by utilizing the security strap that comes with the changing pad, as well as using velcro or a non-slip shelf liner.

    Good for: Parents that want an affordable changing pad that fits on their changing table.

    Summer Contoured Changing Pad

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Kopi Baby Portable Diaper Changing Pad

    (Most organized — $)

    Why it’s great: It’s very helpful to have everything within reach during diaper changes. This diaper changing pad will carry all the essentials you need to make diaper changes easier while on the go. The changing mat folds out easily, is waterproof, and cleans simply and quickly. It features an outer pocket that is ideal for holding mom and dad’s things and two inner mesh pockets that can carry all necessities for the baby. The pockets are also detachable, so you can easily remove them if all you need is the changing pad!

    Convenience is key with this product, as the wipes are easy to access even if it’s not folded out. You can attach this changing pad easily to strollers, bags, or even the headrest of your car to hang it for easy travel. Change your baby in clean comfort with this portable diaper system that will set you up for success.

    Keep in mind: While there is enough space, it can be difficult for the velcro to stay together if it’s too full. It’s recommended to pack 3-5 diapers in this portable changing pad. We would suggest adding a travel-size pack of wipes as well. Having what you need is important, but think through what those necessities are in order to limit frustration.

    Good for: Parents that want to have an organized changing pad that carries everything they need.

    Kopi Baby Portable Diaper Changing Pad

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 4. Portable Baby Changing Pad by Lil Fox

    (Most adorable — $)

    Why it’s great: This is another great option if you need a portable changing pad. It folds out to just the right size for your baby and is soft and cushioned for their comfort. It even has a memory foam pillow built-in! The two sides fold out and store diapers and wipes, so you’ll have the essentials easily at hand. It’s waterproof and wipes clean quickly and easily. Once folded up, it has an outer pocket to store your keys, wallet, and other essentials. It also has a handle and a strap for toys or hanging on a stroller. The best part is that this changing pad comes in multiple different, adorable patterns, so you can choose the one that best fits your style.

    Keep in mind: The bottom of the pad is a little short for older babies. It’s still plenty of room to change your baby, but keep in mind that their feet and legs may end up off the mat.

    Good for: Parents that want a cute, portable changing pad.

    Portable Baby Changing Pad by Lil Fox

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Original Cotton Rope Baby Changing Basket with Foam Pad & Organic Cover

    (Best aesthetic — $$$)

    Why it’s great: This changing pad is designed as an adorable basket, with eco-friendly materials. The rope is all organic cotton and the handles are vegan leather. The beautiful design fits in with any decor and doesn’t look like it belongs to a baby. It’s perfect for changing your baby, but can also be used as a photo prop or storage. The padding is soft and comfortable for your little one and it’s water-resistant with a removable organic cotton cover for easy cleaning. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to lift and move around if needed. It also folds up in half and comes with a storage bag for portability.

    Keep in mind: The sides are not high enough nor sturdy enough to keep your baby from rolling out, so you’ll need to stay beside your baby at all times for their safety. The foam padding is soft and comfortable, but not firm enough for sleeping, so don’t try to use this as a place for a nap or bedtime.

    Good for: Parents that want a beautiful and eco-friendly changing pad.

    Original Cotton Rope Baby Changing Basket with Foam Pad & Organic Cover

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Skip Hop Changing Pad

    (Most entertaining — $$$)

    Why it’s great: The Skip Hop Changing Pad comes with all the features you would desire in a changing pad. It has a sleek design and is waterproof, easy to clean, and doesn’t absorb odors. One great aspect of this changing pad is that it has a tuck-away toy bar to help keep your little one distracted and entertained during the diaper change. If your baby isn’t interested in the toy bar, or if there are moments where it isn’t in use, it can easily be tucked away.

    It’s contoured, cushioned, and a heavier design, so it won’t slip and slide all over the changing table or dresser. Plus, it has a non-skid base with a tabletop attachment that allows the changing pad to be secured to any changing table or dresser.

    Keep in mind: The measurements for this changing pad are 31.5 x 18.25 x 2.6 inches, so double-check that it will fit correctly in the space you’ve chosen in your home. It’s meant to be roomy for your child, but that means it takes up a little more space than some.

    Good for: Parents that want a fun place to change their baby.

    Skip Hop Changing Pad

    View on Amazon.com ➜

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  • 7. SisiMax 100% Organic Cotton, Baby Portable Changing Pad

    (Best eco-friendly — $)

    Why it’s great: This portable changing pad is made with 100% organic cotton and is super soft against your baby’s skin. It’s also lightweight, breathable, waterproof, and hypoallergenic. It’s GOTS certified, so you know it’s both eco-friendly and safe for your baby. On top of that, it’s completely machine washable! It’s the perfect size for on the go changes and has a pocket to store diapers and wipes. The cute sheep design is a neutral color and is suitable for both genders.

    Keep in mind: It only has the one pocket, so you won’t be able to carry a ton of supplies in it, but it’s perfect for a quick trip out.

    Good for: Parents that want an eco-friendly and portable changing pad.

    SisiMax 100% Organic Cotton, Baby Portable Changing Pad

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. LA Baby Waterproof Contour Changing Pad

    (Most stain resistant — $)

    Why it’s great: Cleanliness is one of the top priorities when choosing a changing pad. The LA Baby Waterproof Contour Changing Pad is stain resistant and easy to keep clean with mild soap and water. In between stain cleaning, it is easy to wipe down the pad to keep it tidy. It’s also waterproof, non-toxic, non-allergenic, and created with a vinyl material that is soft and comfortable.

    This changing pad features 4” high sides to help keep your baby in the center of the pad during wiggly changes. It does also include a security strap, so you can secure it to a changing table or dresser, as well as a security strap to buckle your baby in while being used.

    Keep in mind: While it does say that it has a non-skid bottom to prevent slipping, some parents have said that it does move around a little more than they would like. This problem can be easily solved by securing it with the safety harness and/or also adding a few strips of velcro to the bottom of the pad to ensure that it remains in place.

    Good for: Parents that want an easy to clean changing pad.

    LA Baby Waterproof Contour Changing Pad

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Keekaroo Peanut Diaper Changer

    (Easiest to clean — $$$)

    Why it’s great: Talk about a changing pad that has it all! The Keekaroo Peanut Diaper Changer is created with an outer shell that is impermeable to any fluid, making clean up very simple. It also features an outer shell that is important for limiting bacterial growth and also deterioration. The surface allows for immediate cleaning, so no additional changing covers are needed. When it gets dirty, it can be wiped up immediately and quickly!

    With material that was tested for hospital use, this soft and cushy changing pad will not only keep your little one safe but also comfortable. Slightly heavier in design, it’s created to stay put during any and all diaper changes.

    Keep in mind: It’s best to wipe down this changing pad each and every time it’s used to keep it clean and sanitized. A simple damp cloth will work just fine as chemical sprays and cleaners can hinder the natural design of the pad.

    Good for: Parents that don’t want to worry about washing and keeping track of covers.

    Keekaroo Peanut Diaper Changer

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Munchkin Secure Grip Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad

    (Best stability — $$)

    Why it’s great: If you are looking for a changing pad that will stay put, then this is a great option! The Munchkin Secure Grip Changing Pad features rubber strips along the bottom to help prevent it from moving around. Not only that, but it also comes with safety straps that buckle to help keep your squirmy little one safe. If you’re looking for extra stability, then fabric straps with screws are also included so you can secure this pad to a dresser or changing table.

    It’s created with a waterproof fabric that is easy to clean and keep germ free. It also features contoured sides to help prevent your baby from rolling. Designed to fit most changing tables and changing pad covers, this is a simple and great option with many features!

    Keep in mind: This one does seem to carry a strong plastic odor upon opening it. Parents have mentioned that once they have taken it out of the packaging, that odor quickly dissolves. Be willing to give this changing pad some time to air out before using it and the odor shouldn’t be an issue too long.

    Good for: Parents that are concerned with stability and safety.

    Munchkin Secure Grip Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. LA Baby 4 Sided Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad

    (Best 4 sided pad — $)

    Why it’s great: This changing pad has high sides on all 4 sides, making sure that your baby can’t wriggle out in any direction. It also has security straps that will attach to a changing table or a dresser and a non-skid bottom. It’s small enough to fit on any changing table, including the more compact ones from IKEA. Even so, most changing pad covers fit nicely on this pad, giving you lots of options. It also has a safety harness to strap in your baby for maximum safety. The pad itself is waterproof, stain-resistant, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic.

    Keep in mind: This is a bit shorter than most pads, but still has plenty of room for diaper changes. It may be a little harder to clean because of the quilted design, but as long as you have a cover on it to get the majority of accidents, it shouldn’t be too hard to wipe down.

    Good for: Parents that want a more protected, wiggle-proof changing pad.

    LA Baby 4 Sided Waterproof Diaper Changing Pad

    View on Amazon.com ➜

FAQs about Changing Pads

  • 1. Do you need to use a changing pad on a changing table?

    Most traditional changing pads are made to fit perfectly on a changing table. But that doesn’t mean that you have to use it on one. They can be used on any stable surface, as long as you’re taking all the necessary safety steps. There are also portable changing pads that aren’t really meant to be used on a changing table but are made to be used anywhere you might find a stable surface when you’re on the go, including the floor.

  • 2. When can you start using a changing pad?

    You can start using a changing pad the day your baby is born. Obviously, they’ll need to have their diaper changed immediately, so it stands to reason that the changing pad should be ready to go right away. Never leave your baby unattended on a changing pad and you’re good to start using it the minute you get your baby home.

  • 3. How long do you use a changing pad?

    This really varies, but usually, you’ll use a changing pad for the first year of your baby’s life. Most changing pads are around 31 inches, so once your child reaches that height, it’s best to stop using it as it won’t give them the support they need anymore. However, portable changing pads can still be used, even if your child’s feet or legs are hanging off since these are usually used on the floor, a bed, or wherever you need them.

  • 4. Do you need a changing pad cover?

    This will depend on the type of changing pad that you purchase. Most changing pads recommend that you use a cover because it’s easier to take it off and throw in the wash than to try to clean the pad itself. However, some pads are meant to be used without a cover and are easy to wipe clean. Plus, most portable changing pads don’t need covers at all either.

  • 5. Can your baby sleep on a changing pad?

    Your baby should never sleep on a changing pad. These are made with extra padding and comfort to make diaper changing an easier process. However, this extra padding could be a suffocation risk for a sleeping baby. According to the AAP, babies should always sleep on their backs on a firm surface.

  • 6. What are the safety concerns associated with changing pads?

    The biggest safety concern with changing pads is the fall risk. Most changing pads have harnesses and straps for securing the pad to the table or dresser. They also usually are skid-resistant. Even with these precautions, you should never leave your baby alone on a changing pad. As mentioned above, they also should never be used for sleeping, as they are a suffocation risk. The portable pads have similar risks if you’re using them on something other than the floor. Always supervise your child and you shouldn’t have any problems.

  • 7. What features should I look for in a changing pad?

    This will depend on personal preference and your nursery setup. If you have a changing table, there are a lot of options for changing pads. However, if you plan to use the changing pad on a dresser or another surface, you’ll want to choose one with security straps that work for those. If you spend a lot of time out of the house, you’ll need to invest in a portable changing pad too. Most changing pads are designed to be easy to clean but think about whether you want to have to deal with covers or if you’d prefer to just wipe down the surface. As long as the pad has the proper safety features, the rest is up to you.

Conclusion

Diaper duty calls no matter if you are at home or on the go! It can be really helpful for you as the parent to always be ready and prepared. Not only will you feel like you are set up for success, but your baby will be put to ease as well. There are so many aspects of parenting that can be difficult and in the early days, diaper changing around the clock is a real task. Choosing the right changing pad that works well for you and your baby can make all the difference.