For most people, finding a restroom in a large public space is a small inconvenience. For adults with disabilities and their caregivers, it can become a barrier to dignity, independence, and full participation in everyday life. The lack of appropriate changing spaces leaves many of the 10 million adults nationwide with self-care disabilities without suitable facilities. Adult changing tables, or universal changing tables, help close this gap by providing hygienic toileting access for all, enabling safe transfers that reduce injury risks, and supporting compliance with emerging accessibility legislation.
While high-traffic environments pose the most glaring need, every public space benefits from universal changing stations, just like any public space needs a restroom. Here we count down the top ten locations where installing an adult changing table is not just considerate—but essential.
10. Restaurants
Everyone deserves to enjoy their favorite pizza, BBQ, or ice cream spot and a universal changing table helps make that possible. By offering an inclusive changing space, restaurants create a more welcoming experience for all guests while reducing potential accessibility-related complaints.
9. Hotels & Resorts
Hospitality environments strive to support every guest, not just within their rooms but throughout the entire property. Installing universal changing tables in lobbies, conference areas, and pool facilities demonstrates a higher level of care, elevates accessibility standards, and delivers a more seamless, guest-centered experience.
8. Hospitals and Medical Facilities
Healthcare environments must accommodate patients and caregivers with varying mobility needs. Universal changing tables provide a safe, clinically appropriate solution that aligns with patient dignity standards.
7. Museums, Libraries & Cultural Centers
These spaces are designed to be welcoming and educational for all visitors. Adding a changing table for adults with disabilities strengthens that mission by promoting inclusive design, improving accessibility, and demonstrating a meaningful commitment to serving the entire community
6. Schools, Universities & Educational Campuses
Educational environments serve diverse students, families, and visitors every day. Installing adult changing tables supports inclusive campus design, ensures dignity for individuals with disabilities, and helps institutions meet evolving accessibility expectations.
5. Government Buildings
Courthouses, municipal centers, and administrative offices routinely host high volumes of citizens. Adult-sized changing tables signal a true commitment to public service, ensuring that every visitor has access to safe, equitable facilities—no matter their mobility needs.
Read more: Akron Courthouse Becomes the First Courthouse in America to Include a Universal Changing Table
4. Amusement Parks & Entertainment Venues
From theaters to amusement parks, entertainment venues attract guests of all ages and abilities. Adding adult diaper changing stations improves the guest experience, reduces safety risks, and demonstrates that accessibility is built into the fun—not an afterthought.
3. Parks & Recreation Spaces
Outdoor and community facilities serve diverse age groups and rely on durable, low-maintenance solutions. The Ascent offers a reliable, low-maintenance way to ensure every visitor has a safe and dignified option. It’s also ultra-durable (the only UCT around with a 5-year warranty!) and doesn’t require any special wiring or wall blocking, unlike other height-adjustable tables. That’s what we call truly low-maintenance!
2. Stadiums and Arenas
With tens of thousands of guests circulating during sporting events and concerts, stadiums and arenas require accessible amenities at scale. Placing universal changing tables throughout the venue – not just tucked away in one corner - helps operators support guests more efficiently and reduces strain on both staff and visitors.
1. Airports & Transportation Hubs
Airports and transit hubs operate some of the busiest restrooms, serving travelers with diverse mobility needs. Universal changing tables create a safe, dignified solution for adults with disabilities, improving accessibility, reducing operational risk, and elevating the overall travel experience. The United States took a big step toward improving airport accessibility for all when it passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, requiring all large and mid-size terminals in the United States to install adult changing tables.
Kim Kirkwood, co-founder of Ohio’s Changing Spaces chapter, underscores the importance of adult changing stations with her experience in the Cincinnati airport.
While this list highlights some of the most critical locations, the truth is simple: every restroom should support the full spectrum of human needs. Universal changing tables aren’t just for the busiest or most visible public spaces—they’re a necessity anywhere people gather. By making UCTs standard, we create communities where everyone can participate with dignity and confidence.