Preparing for a new arrival is a whirlwind of excitement, planning, and a seemingly endless list of purchases. As we began designing our nursery, we quickly realized that some pieces of furniture are more than just functional; they are foundational. The crib gets the most attention, but the dresser is the unsung hero of the room. This isn’t just a place to store tiny onesies and stacks of diapers. It becomes the command center for late-night changes, the surface for soothing lotions, and the organizational hub that brings a sense of calm to an otherwise chaotic new chapter. We knew we needed something sturdy, spacious, and safe, a piece that could withstand years of use without becoming wobbly or worn. A flimsy dresser is a daily frustration and, worse, a potential safety hazard. The search for a piece that balanced style, substance, and budget led us directly to the highly popular Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser, a product promising a streamlined assembly and timeless design. The question was, could it live up to the hype?
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What to Consider Before Buying a Nursery Dresser and Changing Table Combo
A nursery dresser is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for maintaining organization and efficiency during the demanding early years of parenthood. Its primary benefit is providing ample, dedicated storage for a surprising volume of baby clothes, blankets, and supplies. When topped with a changing pad, it transforms into a multi-functional changing station, saving both space and money. This dual-purpose design keeps all essentials within arm’s reach, making diaper changes quicker, safer, and less stressful. A well-chosen dresser can also grow with your child, transitioning from a nursery staple to a big-kid bedroom piece, making it a wise long-term investment.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the exciting task of setting up a complete nursery. It’s perfect for parents who value a cohesive aesthetic and want a durable piece of furniture that serves multiple functions. They are planners who understand the importance of safety features like anti-tip kits and drawer stops. On the other hand, this type of self-assembly furniture might not be suitable for those who live in temporary housing, prefer highly portable or lightweight solutions, or simply lack the time or inclination to build furniture. For them, a lighter fabric drawer system or a more compact, dedicated changing table might be a better fit.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Always measure your nursery space before buying. The Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser measures 47.24 inches wide by 32.36 inches high. This height is critical for determining if it will be comfortable for you to use as a changing station without stooping. Also, ensure you have enough clearance to open the drawers fully without them hitting a crib, rocker, or doorway.
- Capacity/Performance: Look beyond the number of drawers and consider their dimensions. This dresser features two shallower top drawers and four deeper bottom drawers. This tiered system is excellent for organization, allowing you to store small items like socks and pacifiers separately from bulkier items like swaddles and sweaters. The Euro-glide mechanism is a standard feature in this price range, but be aware it won’t be as smooth or extend as far as premium ball-bearing slides.
- Materials & Durability: The construction materials—a mix of rubberwood, wood composites, engineered wood, and pine—are designed to provide heft and stability at an accessible price point. This is a significant step up from cheaper particleboard, but it’s not solid hardwood. The weight of these materials contributes to its sturdiness, but also makes it very heavy to move, a key consideration for assembly and room placement.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A smooth, non-toxic finish is essential for easy cleaning, as spills and messes are inevitable. Check for safety features like drawer stops to prevent them from being pulled out completely. Long-term care is minimal, usually just requiring a wipe-down with a damp cloth, but be mindful that painted finishes can chip or scratch over time if treated roughly.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser stands out in several areas, particularly for its balance of size, style, and perceived sturdiness. You can explore its detailed specifications and features here.
While the Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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Unboxing and First Impressions: What’s Inside the Box?
The Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser arrived in a single, very heavy box. The first thing we noted, and a sentiment echoed by many other parents, is that this is absolutely a two-person lift, especially if you’re navigating stairs. Upon opening it, we were relieved to find all the components neatly packed and seemingly well-protected with foam inserts. The brand touts an “Easy New Assembly Process,” and our initial layout of the parts supported this claim. Every single piece was clearly labeled with a number or letter sticker, corresponding perfectly with the instruction manual. The hardware was separated into individual bags, which is a small detail that prevents a lot of frustration. The white finish was a clean, pure white with no yellowish or cream undertones, matching our other nursery furniture perfectly. The architectural beading on the drawer fronts adds a touch of classic detail that elevates it from a basic, flat-fronted dresser. Our first impression was one of substance; the pieces felt solid and weighty, promising a sturdy final product.
What We Like
- Generous storage with a functional six-drawer configuration
- Sturdy, heavy construction provides excellent stability
- Timeless and universal design fits most nursery styles
- Straightforward assembly thanks to clearly labeled parts
- Ideal height and width for use as a changing station
What We Didn’t Like
- Inconsistent quality control can lead to damaged or misaligned parts
- Euro-glide drawers are not smooth and do not extend fully
A Deep Dive into the Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser’s Performance
A dresser’s true worth is revealed not on the showroom floor, but in the daily reality of a busy nursery. Over weeks of use, we tested every aspect of the Graco Benton, from its structural integrity to the functionality of its drawers. We stuffed them with clothes, stacked supplies on top, and put its construction to the test. Here’s our detailed breakdown of how it performed.
The Assembly Experience: A Tale of Two Outcomes
Graco promises a “new time-saving assembly process,” and for us, this held true. With every part clearly labeled and instructions that were refreshingly easy to follow, the entire build took just under an hour with two people. The inclusion of extra hardware was a thoughtful touch, providing peace of mind against a dropped screw disappearing under the furniture. The interlocking drawer system, a key safety feature, was clever and integrated well into the construction process. This positive experience is shared by many users who found the process “simple and straightforward.” However, it’s impossible to ignore the significant number of reports detailing a completely different reality. A recurring theme in user feedback is a gamble with manufacturing quality control. We read numerous accounts of pre-drilled holes being in the wrong place, which can derail the entire assembly. As one frustrated parent noted, a single misaligned hole on a drawer panel led to a large, unfixable gap and a drawer that was difficult to open and close. Others received boxes with missing parts or, more alarmingly, crucial components like the front rail arriving cracked. This suggests that while the *design* of the assembly is excellent, the execution at the factory can be inconsistent. Our advice: unbox and inspect every single piece for damage or defects *before* you begin assembly.
Design, Aesthetics, and Nursery Integration
In terms of pure aesthetics, the Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser is a resounding success. Its “universal design” is more than just marketing speak; it genuinely works. The clean lines, classic white finish, and simple round knobs create a versatile look that can anchor a nursery’s decor, whether you’re aiming for modern, traditional, or bohemian. The subtle architectural beading on the top drawers adds just enough detail to keep it from looking bland. Measuring over 47 inches wide and nearly 33 inches tall, its proportions are perfect for a dual-purpose changing station. We placed a standard changing pad on top and still had plenty of room on the side for a diaper caddy and wipe warmer, creating an incredibly efficient setup. As one user happily pointed out, “The size of the dresser is also great because I can put the baby changer on top along with a few different items.” The pure white color is another key selling point, as it’s often difficult to match white furniture from different brands. This dresser’s finish is crisp and bright, free of the creamy or yellow tints that can clash with other pieces. While our unit’s finish was flawless, a few users have mentioned minor imperfections like small grains under the paint or light scratches, another nod to the variability in quality control.
Storage Capacity and Everyday Functionality
The primary job of a dresser is storage, and here, the Graco Benton excels. The six-drawer layout is thoughtfully designed for nursery needs. The two top drawers are slightly shallower at 4 inches deep, which we found perfect for organizing frequently accessed items: diapers, wipes, creams, socks, and pacifiers. The four lower drawers are deeper at 5 inches, providing substantial space for clothing, swaddles, sleep sacks, and extra bedding. The interior dimensions of 18.75 inches wide and 12.5 inches long are generous, allowing you to neatly stack or file-fold clothes for easy viewing. However, the functionality is somewhat hampered by the drawer mechanism. The dresser uses Euro-glide drawers, which are essentially a nylon wheel on a metal track. While they include safety stops to prevent the drawer from being pulled out, they lack the smooth operation and full extension of more expensive ball-bearing glides. This was the most common functional complaint from users, with many noting the drawers “ALL get stuck” or “only open half way.” In our testing, we found they needed a firm, straight pull to open smoothly and did indeed stop about three-quarters of the way out, making it a little harder to reach items at the very back. For the price point, this is a common compromise, but it’s a crucial factor to be aware of. Despite this, the sheer volume of organized storage it offers is a massive advantage, and the dresser provides an incredible amount of utility for its cost.
Safety, Durability, and Long-Term Value
When it comes to nursery furniture, safety is paramount. We were impressed that the Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser meets all applicable ASTM and CPSC safety standards and is compliant with anti-tipping regulations. It includes an interlocking drawer system and a tip-over restraint kit, and we cannot stress enough the importance of anchoring this heavy piece of furniture to the wall. The dresser’s sheer weight, a result of its wood composite and pine construction, makes it feel very stable and solid on the floor. Many users cited its heft as a major plus, stating, “It is not cheap and lightweight, it’s durable and heavy!” and “Heavy, which is good so it wont tilt.” This robust build suggests it has the potential for great long-term value, easily transitioning into a child’s bedroom for years to come. The potential downside, once again, lies in manufacturing consistency. The reports of cracked support rails, legs secured with misfired staples, and other structural defects upon arrival are concerning. It seems that if you receive an intact, well-manufactured unit, its durability is excellent. If you are unlucky, you may face a frustrating return process for a very heavy item, a scenario that is a nightmare for any expectant parent on a deadline.
What Other Users Are Saying
After compiling our own findings, we turned to the broader community of users to see how our experience stacked up. The sentiment is sharply divided, painting a clear picture of a product with great potential but plagued by inconsistency. On the positive side, many parents are thrilled with their purchase. One user, who self-identified as “not very handy,” celebrated the assembly, saying, “Every piece was numbered and lettered so we were easily able to follow the instructions… It looks great in our nursery and feels very solid.” Another praised its practicality and build: “It has more than enough space for baby’s clothes and toiletries… it has substance- a real good weight to it I can tell it isn’t flimsy and is going to last.”
However, the negative feedback is just as specific and focuses almost exclusively on quality control. One user detailed their frustration with misaligned holes, concluding, “It’s hard to open/close the front drawer because of this… it’s completely due to poor manufacturing.” The most alarming trend involves receiving damaged parts, sometimes repeatedly. One detailed account reads, “This dresser has a low quality front rail… The same part (front rail) has arrived broken in the same place twice now.” This highlights that the biggest risk with the Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser isn’t its design, but the lottery of receiving a well-made unit.
Alternatives to the Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser
While the Graco Benton offers a compelling package, it’s wise to consider alternatives that might better suit your specific needs, whether that’s a smaller footprint, a different material, or a certified low-emission product.
1. Dream On Me Ashton 2-in-1 Changing Table Nightstand Espresso
- DUAL USE: The Ashton is a functional changing table that is a nursery must-have! Built of durable, sustainable, and reclaimed New...
- FUNCTIONAL & SECURE: Don’t worry about a mess during changing time as it comes with a water-resistant mattress pad. With safety rails...
For parents with limited space or those who prefer a more traditional, open-concept changing station, the Dream On Me Ashton is a strong contender. Unlike the Graco Benton’s concealed drawer storage, the Ashton features two spacious open shelves. This design is excellent for keeping baskets of diapers and wipes in plain sight for quick, one-handed access. Constructed from solid New Zealand pinewood, it offers a different durability profile than the Benton’s composite build. Its biggest advantage is its compact size and dedicated function, but it lacks the long-term versatility of a full dresser, though it can convert to a nightstand later on.
2. Storkcraft Crescent 6 Drawer Dresser
- GREENGUARD GOLD CERTIFIED, SAFETY TESTED: GREENGUARD Gold Certified products are screened for more than 10,000 chemicals and VOCs known...
- COMPATIBLE WITH CHANGING TOPPER: Complete your Storkcraft Crescent 6 Drawer Double Dresser with the compatible Storkcraft Nest Changing...
The Storkcraft Crescent is perhaps the most direct competitor to the Graco Benton, and it’s worth noting that Storkcraft is the exclusive manufacturer for Graco nursery furniture. The Crescent shares a similar 6-drawer double dresser design, size, and classic aesthetic. The crucial difference and its main selling point is its GREENGUARD Gold Certification. This means it has been rigorously tested and scientifically proven to have low chemical emissions, contributing to cleaner indoor air. For health-conscious parents, this certification may be worth the slightly higher price tag. If you love the Benton’s design but are concerned about VOCs, the Storkcraft Crescent is the ideal upgrade.
3. Sorbus 5-Drawer Kids Fabric Dresser
- 5-DRAWER NIGHTSTAND (PINK) — Style meets function with our lightweight accent table, complete with a wood surface and storage drawers...
- DISPLAY & DE-CLUTTER — Wood top provides hard surface for displaying lamps, alarm clocks, books, eyeglasses, charging station, and...
If budget, portability, and ease of assembly are your absolute top priorities, the Sorbus Fabric Dresser offers a completely different solution. This unit features a lightweight steel frame and five collapsible fabric drawers. It’s incredibly easy to build and move, making it perfect for smaller apartments, closet organization, or temporary living situations. However, it cannot double as a changing station and lacks the durability and premium feel of the wood-composite Graco Benton. This is a practical, short-term storage solution for parents who prioritize flexibility and cost over a permanent, heirloom-quality piece of furniture.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser Right for Your Nursery?
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser is one of conditional recommendation. At its best, this dresser is a fantastic value, offering a stylish design, immense storage capacity, and a sturdy build that feels far more expensive than it is. It’s the perfect size and height to serve as a changing station, and its timeless look ensures it can grow with your child for many years. The assembly process is well-designed and straightforward, provided all the pieces are manufactured correctly.
However, the significant and recurring issues with quality control cannot be overlooked. The risk of receiving a unit with misaligned holes, cracked parts, or cosmetic blemishes is real. This transforms the purchase from a sure thing into a bit of a gamble. We recommend this dresser to parents who are on a defined budget, love its classic aesthetic, and are prepared to thoroughly inspect all parts upon arrival and handle a potential return or replacement if necessary. If you receive a good one, you will be absolutely delighted. If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer to avoid any potential assembly headaches, you may want to consider an alternative.
If you’ve decided the Graco Benton 6-Drawer Double Dresser is the right fit for your nursery’s needs and are ready to take the plunge, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API