Changing a baby girl's diaper requires different techniques than changing a boy's diaper. If you use cloth prefold diapers, you will want to use different folds for a girl than you would with a boy, so that the thickest part of the diaper is in the middle where a girl urinates. Even if you use disposables, which are the same for boys or girls, you will need to pay close attention to cleanliness. Feces in a baby girl's vaginal area could lead to infection.
Step 1
As soon as your baby is wet or soiled, change her diaper. This will help prevent diaper rash.
Step 2
Gather your supplies before you take off the wet or soiled diaper. Never leave a baby unattended on a changing table, bed or other elevated surface.
Step 3
Put a clean diaper under the baby before you remove the wet or soiled diaper. This will protect the surface below if she should urinate after you remove her diaper.
Step 4
Use a damp washcloth or baby wipe to clean her diaper area. Always wipe from front to back to prevent fecal matter from entering her vaginal area where it could cause infection. Be sure to clean all the folds of skin in her diaper area.
Step 5
Gently pat her dry with a second washcloth or towel.
Step 6
Put a clean diaper on the baby. If you use cloth prefolds, use a twist fold to place extra layers between her legs where a girl urinates.
Tips and Warnings
- When your baby wakes up to eat, especially at night, change her diaper first. She will be more comfortable and will go back to sleep more quickly.
Things You'll Need
- Clean diaper---cloth or disposable
- Wipes or clean, damp washcloth
- Dry washcloth
