Diapering a baby can become easy very quickly. This may be because a caregiver gets plenty of practice, as a baby soils at least six or eight diapers in one 24-hour period. The first few diaper changes may be difficult as a caregiver learns the best method for cleaning the baby's bottom and putting the diaper in place correctly. As a baby becomes more mobile, diaper changing may require more effort from the caregiver.
Step 1
Lay out everything you need within reach before starting.
Step 2
Place the baby down on her back in the center of the area prepared for diaper changing. It is important to have a changing pad or other protective cover beneath the baby to prevent leaks or accidents from soiling the changing surface.
Step 3
Remove the baby's clothing from the waist down. Unsnap or undo the diaper tabs.
Step 4
Carefully pull the front of the diaper down. It may be wise to check to see what kind of mess your baby has made. A curious baby may try to stick her hands down into the diaper, getting feces on her fingers. Fold the top of the diaper down over the urine or feces.
Step 5
Keep the dirty diaper in place as you begin to wipe the baby's bottom with baby wipes. This will prevent feces or urine from getting onto the changing pad. Once most of the mess has been cleaned, remove the dirty diaper and finish cleaning the baby's bottom.
Step 6
Apply a small amount of diaper rash cream to any red areas.
Step 7
Lift baby's bottom by holding her two legs in one hand and gently raising her off the changing surface. Slip the new, opened, diaper under her. Be sure the back of the diaper is directly under her waist, or just below her belly button.
Step 8
Pull the front of the diaper up between the baby's legs. The edge should be just below the belly button.
Step 9
Snap or fasten the diaper into place. This can be done by bringing the adhesive tab from the back of the diaper around to the front. Use a diaper pin or whatever other fastener your diaper has to get a snug fit. The diaper should not be so tight that it causes red marks, but it should be close to your baby's skin.
Tips and Warnings
- Always wipe from front to back to prevent spreading bacteria in the fecal matter to the genitals. This is especially troublesome for girls, as it can cause an infection. Make diaper rash cream application easier with a cotton ball or cotton swab. Be sure baby's bottom is dry before placing her into a new diaper. Change a baby's diaper frequently. A newborn may need a diaper change every one or two hours. Older babies may only need changed every two to three hours.
Things You'll Need
- Changing pad
- Baby wipes
- Diaper rash cream
