Several commentors are saying to skip the changing table but we found it very useful. Saves your back and also provides a convenient place to store diapers and wipes. You will do most of the diaper changes in the baby's room and at 3 am you'll be glad you have an ideal location to do it. We had a pretty basic one, not very expensive. It had a nice pad with edges that curved up to help keep the baby from rolling off, and was water proof which was very helpful. There will be pee and poo, you want that on your bed or other surface your using for changing? Get a changing table.