Diaper changing is a necessity in the arsenal of skills for new parents. Whether you decide to cloth diaper or use disposable diapers, the protocol of changing diapers is basically the same. Having the right supplies handy, as well as remembering safety guidelines can keep diaper changing a relatively fuss-free part of parenthood. You can practice on a doll, but you'll find you get the brunt of your diaper changing education through hands-on practice with your own baby, to find out what method works best for you.
Step 1
Lay your baby on the changing pad or change table surface. If using a change table, remember to keep one hand on your baby at all times, and to use a change table with an elevated lip to prevent falls.
Step 2
Remove your baby's clothing and unfasten the diaper. If using cloth diapers, you'll need to undo a pin or release Velcro, while disposable diapers use sticky or Velcro straps. Fold the diaper back on itself, and lift your baby to slide the folded edge under her bottom. Use the diaper to wipe away some of the mess as you fold it back.
Step 3
Lay a wet wipe or burp cloth over the baby's penis in order to prevent spraying him or yourself in the midst of changing, if your baby is a boy, recommends BabyCenter.com. Skip this step if your baby is a girl.
Step 4
Use a wet wipe to thoroughly clean the area. It's a good idea to wipe front to back to prevent urinary tract infections due to spreading bacteria from fecal matter, especially if your baby is a girl says KidsHealth.org. Check to make sure the area is completely clean.
Step 5
Roll the diaper up with the soiled wipes and fasten it closed for disposal. If using cloth diapers, you'll need to rinse dirty diapers in the toilet before putting them in the laundry basket, so set them aside, at this point.
Step 6
Assess the need for rash ointment; red or bumpy skin may be irritated by moisture and need a thin coat of ointment. If you notice a rash, rub on a thin barrier layer to protect your baby's sensitive skin.
Step 7
Slide the new diaper under the baby, making sure that the fasteners are on the back side of the disposable diaper. If using cloth diapers, the most popular kind are pre-folds, and will require you to fold the cloth into thirds before you slide it under the baby, fasten with pins or snaps and then cover it with a fleece or plastic diaper cover. If using pocket diapers, slide a new absorbent pad into the diaper before fastening. All in one cloth diapers have all components included, and function most like a disposable diaper. Note that the larger side of the diaper should hug the bottom of the baby, with the smaller side coming up between baby's legs and fastening over her belly.
Step 8
Fasten disposable diapers with the supplied straps or fasten cloth diapers via pins or Velcro, whichever your particular type of cloth diaper calls for. Dress your baby to complete the diaper change.
Tips and Warnings
- Change your baby frequently. The American Pregnancy Association recommends that you change your baby at least every two to three hours, noting that the average newborn will urinate up to 20 times per day, and have at least one bowel movement as well. Keep your baby as clean and dry as possible to ward off diaper rash and crankiness. A changing table is helpful for some people. Make sure to choose one that has an elevated lip on the edge to prevent falls, and always keep on hand on the baby as you change him. If you don't own a changing table, the floor is a perfectly acceptable area to change your baby in. It's a good idea to fill a basket with your supplies, like diapers, wipes and ointment, so when your baby needs a diaper change, you just need to grab the basket to have everything you need nearby.
Things You'll Need
- Diaper
- Changing mat
- Diaper pins
- Wet wipes
- Burp cloth
- Rash ointment
