Healthy Children, published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, warns that baby powder can harm your baby if he inhales it. When you sprinkle powder on your baby's bum, some of the powder may rise into the air and reach your baby's mouth or nose. The Academy also warns that baby powder can contain phthalates, which could harm a baby's reproductive and endocrine systems. However, the use of powder is only discouraged, not prohibited; by using baby powder carefully, you can minimize the risk of inhalation.
Step 1
Gather all the supplies you will need: a clean diaper, wipes and baby powder. Keep these things--especially the powder--out of your baby's reach, but close enough that you needn't step away from the baby to grab them, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 2
Lay your baby on a clean, safe surface. If available, buckle any safety straps over your baby to keep him from falling.
Step 3
Detach the diaper tabs and pull down the front of the diaper, exposing the baby's skin.
Step 4
Clean the baby's genitals and bottom with baby wipes. Gently but thoroughly wipe the entire diaper area, including all nooks and crannies. When changing a baby girl's diaper, always begin with the genitals and progress toward the bottom; this helps avoid infection, explains the American Pregnancy Association.
Step 5
Unfold the new diaper. Remove and discard the dirty diaper. Next, place the clean diaper underneath your baby's bum.
Step 6
Aim the bottle away from the baby and sprinkle the powder onto your hand, not onto your baby, recommends the California Childcare Health Program. This keeps any airborne particles of powder away from your baby's head so that he cannot breathe it in. Next, pat your baby's diaper area with your powdered hand to transfer the powder.
Step 7
Close the powder container's lid securely and put the container in a safe place that your baby cannot access.
Step 8
Tape the diaper's side tabs onto the front of the diaper, fastening the diaper snugly but not tightly. Dress your baby and remove him from the changing table or area.
Step 9
Wash your hands.
Tips and Warnings
- Consider using diaper cream instead of baby powder, recommends the California Childcare Health Program.
- Baby powder could potentially damage your baby's lungs, endocrine system and reproductive system, warns the American Academy of Pediatrics. Never let your baby hold the bottle of baby powder, advises MedlinePlus.
Things You'll Need
- Diaper
- Wipes
- Baby powder
- Soap and water
