Our Recommended models meet all our key safety requirements and score at least 80%. Some lower-scoring models may still be worth considering if they meet all key safety requirements, but fail some minor points (such as finger entrapment). Models we don't recommend fail at least one major safety requirement.
There is no Australian Standard for baby change tables. Our test method is based on relevant clauses from Australian Standards for nursery furniture such as for cots, and from the American standard for baby changing tables, ASTM F 2388.
We test for:
Stability We apply about 20kg of downward force to the edge of the table to see if it tilts or tips over.
Strength of construction We put a 50kg mass in the centre of the changing surface for 60 seconds and check for any damage to the table.
Roll-off protection (whether the table will prevent a baby rolling or sliding from the change surface). The table is tilted sideways at 15° and a 15kg test cylinder is placed at the upper edge of the changing surface and released. If it rolls off the bottom edge, the table fails.
Sharp edges and protrusions Any edges or points that could injure a child on the table are noted.
Finger and limb traps Any gaps or holes that could trap a small finger or limb are tested with a set of special probes.