How to Change a Poopy Diaper

Changing a poopy diaper is a stinky job that parents of infants and toddlers cannot escape. While changing a poopy diaper is a simple job, many new parents are surprised that they can't perform the task correctly. The steps for changing a poopy diaper will change depending on the type of diaper used, but not significantly. Keep in mind that changing a diaper does get easier over time and within a few years, you won't be changing diapers anymore.

Step 1

Hand your child a toy to keep him entertained during the diaper change. Keep the toy away from the diaper area.

Step 2

Remove your child's shoes and clothing that covers the diaper area. Place the clothes far enough away so they will not come into contact with the soiled diaper.

Step 3

Lay your child on a changing pad in order to protect items underneath your child from messes not contained by the diaper.

Step 4

Release the tabs securing your infant's diaper. Press down on the front of the diaper and wipe downward to remove any large pieces of poop from the front of your child's genital area.

Step 5

Clean your child's genital area with a clean baby wipe. Wipe a girl's genital area from front to back to prevent infection in the vagina. Continue wiping until no poop remains on the genital area.

Step 6

Roll the diaper and wipes into a small package. Secure the flaps on the diaper around the package to ensure that it does not come open.

Step 7

Place the dirty diaper in a small trash sack. Tie the sack closed.

Step 8

Open a fresh diaper and place under your child. Make sure that the flaps to secure the diaper are underneath your child.

Step 9

Apply a diaper rash cream if the child has any irritation. Wipe your fingers with a baby wipe after application of the diaper cream.

Step 10

Fold the diaper up and over your child's genital area. Secure the diaper closed by pulling the flaps around the front of the diaper.

Step 11

Dress your child in fresh clothes if he soiled his clothing. Redress your child in the clothes you set aside if they were still clean.

Step 12

Throw the trash sack away in the nearest receptacle. Wash your and your child's hands.

Tips and Warnings

  • Place any soiled clothing in a plastic sack to avoid contamination in your diaper bag.
  • Using the wrong size diaper can result in diapers that leak on clothing and furniture.

Things You'll Need

  • Changing pad
  • Baby wipes
  • Small trash sack
  • Diaper cream
  • Diaper
  • Toy

Article reviewed by Kirk Ericson Last updated on: Feb 4, 2010

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