A diaper changing pad can make your life easier as a new parent. Easy to clean and comfortable for baby, it can make changing time less of a hassle. In order to use a diaper changing pad effectively, you must ensure that you're using it in a safe and hygienic way. Without proper instructions, you could be leaving your baby susceptible to injury or illness due to poor diaper changing pad practices.
Step 1
Choose a diaper changing pad with the right features. An effective diaper pad has a thin layer of padding surrounded by a smooth, washable surface like vinyl. Some other diaper changing pads include Velcro, so you can roll it up for better portability; pockets for easier access to diapers and wipes; and straps to hold baby safely.
Step 2
Lay the changing pad out on your changing surface. It's important to choose a stable surface to keep your baby safe, says Consumer Reports. Make sure the surface is flat, with necessary safety features like a raised lip or strap to hold baby in before you lay the changing pad down.
Never leave your baby unattended on an elevated surface; a good rule of thumb is to keep one hand on your baby's belly at all times throughout the changing.
Step 3
Place your baby on the diaper changing pad and secure any necessary straps, instructs KidsHealth.org, a division of the Nemours Foundation. You should always use the features that your baby's changing pad offers for safety precautions. While changing your baby, take care that the changing pad doesn't slip and leave your baby's skin exposed to the changing surface beneath. While traveling or using public facilities, it's important to keep your baby's skin protected from harmful germs and bacteria.
Step 4
Wipe the changing pad down with an antibacterial wipe once you've removed your baby from the changing table to a safe place. Note that antibacterial wipes are not the same as baby wipes, so keep a separate store of each with you in your diaper bag or near the diaper change table. Allow the diaper changing pad to dry before you roll and store it for your next use.
Tips and Warnings
- If you're caught without a changing pad and your baby needs to be changed in a public facility, wipe the change table surface with antibacterial wipes and use a cloth diaper or paper towel to protect your baby's skin.
Things You'll Need
- Diaper changing pad
- Diaper
- Wipes
- Antibacterial wipes
