If you pick up a baby and can feel the warm wetness of his diaper through his clothes, it is definitely time for a diaper change. If you're new at diaper changing, there's no need to worry. Newborn babies can go through eight to ten diapers a day, according to KidsHealth, so you'll likely become very familiar with the process after a few days. And as you change more diapers, you'll learn your baby's temperament and what he likes and dislikes.
Step 1
Place the baby on a firm surface. If you are using a changing table or another elevated surface, make sure the baby is safely secured.
Step 2
Prepare a clean diaper to be placed on the baby and set it aside.
Step 3
Remove the baby's pants and set them aside.
Step 4
Unfasten the wet, dirty diaper by pulling back on the tabs that keep the diaper in place. Once you have unfastened the diaper, keep it in place under the baby.
Step 5
Clean the baby's genital area by wiping from front to back with a baby wipe or clean washcloth.
Step 6
Continue cleaning the diaper area by lifting the baby's butt up by holding his ankles and pulling up. Use a clean wipe on the baby's butt and thighs.
Step 7
Slide the dirty diaper out from under the baby and discard in a diaper container or a garbage can.
Step 8
Place the back half of the clean, fresh diaper under the baby's butt.
Step 9
Fold the top half of the diaper over the baby's genitals and secure it tightly. The diaper should be tight enough that urine and feces cannot seep out through any openings, but not so tight that the skin is pinched or puckered, according to BabyCenter.
Step 10
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.
Tips and Warnings
- With the number of diapers babies can go through in a day, it's a good idea to keep all the supplies you will need--clean diapers, baby wipes, rash ointment, baby powder--all handy in a spot close to the changing area. If you are changing a baby boy's diaper, it's a good idea to cover the penis with a cloth until the clean diaper is in place. And make sure to position the penis down to prevent urine from leaking out the top of the diaper, KidsHealth advises. For young babies, who tend to have especially sensitive skin, consider using a clean washcloth damp with warm water instead of baby wipes, which can be irritating, according to Gerber. Some babies dislike having their diapers changed. To stave off fussiness, keep a few small toys near the diaper-changing area to keep the baby occupied and entertained.
- Never leave a baby unattended on a changing table or another elevated surface. Always keep at least one hand on the baby to prevent falls or other accidents.
Things You'll Need
- Diaper
- Baby wipes or washcloth
