Knowing how to change a diaper correctly and safely is a skill that all new parents should master. Whether you choose to use cloth diapers or disposables for your little one, the general process is the same. Keeping all the necessary supplies on hand can make for a quicker and cleaner diaper change, even when your busy baby is on the move. Once you've mastered the basic process of changing a diaper, you'll eventually do it more quickly and efficiently.
Step 1
Choose an area of your home that is ideal for changing diapers. A baby-changing station on each floor of your home will reduce the time needed to find the correct items for a diaper change and to move the baby to another location to change him. A changing mat and a basket of essentials, such as diapers, wipes and ointment, transform any area of your home into a changing station.
Step 2
Place your baby on a safe surface where she is secure and won't roll off. When changing your baby on an elevated surface, always keep at least one hand on her, recommends BabyCenter.com. Wear rubber gloves if desired; some day care centers require workers to wear rubber gloves when changing babies who are not their own.
Step 3
Open the diaper while lifting baby's rear up slightly, and fold the diaper back on itself, so that the baby's bottom rests on the clean portion of the diaper. Grab several wipes, and clean the baby's bottom, always wiping from front to back to prevent the spread bacteria that could cause urinary tract infections, says KidsHealth.org.
Step 4
Roll up the used wipes, and place them on the diaper. Slide the diaper out from under the baby, rolling it up securely and fastening it into a ball with the adhesive straps. If you're using cloth diapers, rinse the diaper off in the toilet, and set it aside for laundering.
Step 5
Lift the baby's legs in the air, and slide a fresh diaper underneath his bottom. The side with straps or Velcro should be at the back. Assess his bottom for redness or irritation, and apply diaper cream or ointment if necessary. Pull the front portion between the baby's legs and up to his waist, and fasten either with diaper pins and snaps for cloth diapers or the adhesive or Velcro fasteners for disposable diapers.
Step 6
Dispose of disposable diapers in an airtight container until you can throw them into the garbage. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
Things You'll Need
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Ointment
- Antibacterial soap
- Rubber gloves (if desired)
