You will likely change at least 10 diapers per day in the first few months after bringing your newborn home from the hospital. Changing diapers may seem complicated at first, says KidsHealth.org, but with practice it will soon become second nature to change a diaper where ever you happen to be.
Step 1
Set up one or more diapering stations around your house. Many people opt to use a changing table, reports HealthyChildren.org, but you can choose any location that is convenient for you. If you use a changing table, consider location when setting it up to ensure it's near where you and your newborn spend the most time. You can also set up diaper changing areas in other rooms of the home, including your bedroom or the living room.
Step 2
Stock each diaper station with plenty of supplies. Diapers and wipes are the minimum supplies needed. KidsHealth.org says that you may also need fasteners if you use cloth diapers, diaper rash cream and a changing pad to lay on the changing table, floor or furniture where you are doing the diaper change. You may also need an extra set of clothes for messy accidents.
Step 3
Take off the used diaper. Lay your baby on the changing table or changing area. According to HealthyChildren.org, many babies will urinate as soon as their diaper is taken off, so be prepared to cover them to keep their clothes dry. Lift your baby's legs and place a clean diaper underneath her. Remove the dirty diaper and use it to wipe any waste as you remove it. Use wipes to finish wiping your newborn clean. KidsHealth.org reports that you should always wipe your baby from front to back to prevent urinary tract infections.
Step 4
Apply diaper rash cream if needed. If your baby has a red rash, diaper rash cream can alleviate the pain and discomfort. Pat your baby's behind dry before applying cream so it goes on smoothly and easily. Use a cream that includes zinc oxide, because it creates a barrier against the moisture that causes a rash.
Step 5
Replace the used diaper with a dry one. After wiping your newborn clean, place the new diaper on her by making sure the diaper's picture is facing toward the front. Fasten the diaper using the tabs or with fasteners if using cloth diapers. Center the diaper on your baby, says HealthyChildren.org, to prevent leakage. Replace your baby's clothes after the diaper is securely in place.
Tips and Warnings
- Disposable changing pads can be convenient when you need to change diapers in the car or while you are out and about.
- Never leave your newborn unattended on a changing table or any piece of furniture you use to change a diaper on. Always keep one hand on your baby while changing her diaper.
Things You'll Need
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Diaper fasteners
- Extra clothes
- Diaper rash cream
