Η diaper change of your baby is as important a part of parenting as your little one's diet. Although changing a diaper takes a little practice, it will soon become routine in your new life!
Read on for our detailed guide on how and when to change your baby's diaper and how to organize your changing table.
Plus, here are some of the signs to look out for that show your little one is ready for a bigger diaper size, so you can avoid some...unpleasant situations when it's time for a bigger diaper size.
How to change a baby's diaper
Make sure you have everything you will need for her diaper change. Once you're ready, here's how to change your baby's diaper in a few easy steps:
- Place your baby on his back and remove the used diaper. Roll it up and tape it to seal it. Dispose of the diaper in the diaper disposal container or set it aside to be disposed of later in the waste container. If you're throwing the diaper in a trash can, place it in a plastic bag first to reduce odors.
- Gently brush your baby, making sure to clean between the skin folds. You can use soft diaper wipes, such as Pampers Sensitive Wipes, or you can use a damp cloth. Remember to wipe from front to back to avoid contaminating his sensitive area.
- If your baby has diaper rash, apply one Baby Cream or barrier cream on the affected area.
- Carefully lift the baby's legs and lower body by the ankles and slide a clean diaper underneath. Colorful markings must be in front. Then, pull the front of the diaper between your baby's legs and place it on his tummy.
- Lift the two wings of the diaper on both the left and right sides and stick the elastic fastening tape on each side to the front of the diaper. Make sure you don't fasten the diaper too tightly or too loosely. To check this, you should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the diaper and your baby's tummy. Turn the leg cuffs to prevent leaks.
Once finished, wash your hands and clean the changing area, including the changing table or changing table.
What do you need to change a diaper?
View what you need to change a diaper:
- Diapers. Although you only need one diaper at a time, it can be helpful to have several diapers in the changing area or changing table so you don't run out when you need them. You may even want to have a few diapers from the next size up so you'll be ready when the time comes. Store diapers close to a diaper changing area, but away from your baby.
- Wipes. To clean your baby's bottom, you'll need wipes. Another option is a towel and water. If your baby has a rash or any sensitivity, use baby wipes for sensitive skin without fragrance.
- Changing cream or barrier cream. You will need them in case your baby develops diaper rash. Most babies develop a rash at some point. It usually appears between 8 and 10 months. Regardless of age, there are many factors that contribute to the appearance of a rash, such as if the diaper is not changed often enough, if the baby has diarrhea or if the baby has just started solid food.
- Furniture - changing table. They are designed to make changing your baby easier. Choose a piece of furniture with side rails on all four sides at least two inches high, as these can prevent your little one from rolling. There are usually drawers or shelves underneath to store your diaper essentials.
- Soft changing table - pillow. The pillow is placed on the changing table. Choose one that is curved so that the waist is deeper and the sides are raised. Always keep one hand on your baby and never leave your baby unattended on the changing table. You may also want to purchase a disposable or portable changing table that fits in your diaper bag when you're out and about with your little one.
- Towel or blanket. You don't have to use a changing table or changing table anyway. Any flat surface will do. For example, you could use a bed, the sofa or the floor. Simply spread a towel or blanket first to keep the area clean. If your baby is on an elevated surface (such as a bed or sofa), always keep a hand on them to prevent falls.
- Diaper disposal container. It is useful to have it somewhere near the changing area to remove your baby's smelly nappies. A diaper disposal bin helps lock in odors.
How to change your newborn's diaper
If you are a first-time parent, you will find that it takes a few tries to get used to changing your newborn's diaper. Following the steps above will help you figure it out.
Right after your baby is born, your midwife or one of the nurses can give you some practical lessons.
Please note that your newborn will need approx 10 diapers a day, so you'll have plenty of chances to practice how to change his diapers.
For the first few weeks, as you wait for your baby's umbilical cord to fall off, use a few of the diaper changes to gently clean the umbilical cord area and check for signs of infection such as a yellowish discharge or redness in the area around the belly button. If you notice this, contact your baby's pediatrician.
The first bad things your baby's will be a thick, greenish, almost tar-like, meconium as it is called. As the meconium passes, your baby's poop will change color to yellow-green.
Don't be surprised if you notice a little vaginal discharge in your girl's diaper - this is normal. You may also see some blood in your newborn's stool in the first few days. This is quite common and usually harmless, but it's a good idea to let your baby's pediatrician know if you spot it.
Be sure to check with your baby's pediatrician if you have questions about what you see in your newborn's diaper.
How often should you change a diaper?
Experts recommend changing your baby's diaper after each poop and often in between to ensure that a wet diaper does not stay in contact with your baby for too long.
Depending on your baby's age and whether he's breastfed, bottle-fed, or on solids, as well as other factors like digestive issues, your baby may be pooping after every meal, once a day, or even once a week . All of these can be normal.
When it comes to peeing, your little one may pee as often as every one to three hours, or about six times a day.
Remember that at first your newborn will need about 10 diaper changes a day.
How do you know it's time for a diaper change?
Some diapers have a wetness indicator so you can see at a glance if your baby needs one diaper change.
Other signs that your baby may need a diaper change include:
- • You reach into the diaper with a finger and it is wet
- • You can smell or see your baby's urine or poop
- • The diaper is loose or the underside of the diaper feels bulky
What are the signs that your baby needs a bigger diaper?
Here are some signs that your baby needs a bigger diaper:
- The insurance tapes they do not reach the center of the waist band
- You can't fit two fingers below the waist
- There are red marks on your baby's belly or thighs
- The diaper does not cover your baby's baby bump
- Your baby seems to be feeling uncomfortable (for example, pulls the diaper).
- You notice leaks and that his diaper does not contain your baby's secretions.
However, even if the diaper is the right size, if you don't wear it correctly, you may experience leaks. Double-check that you haven't fastened the diaper too tightly or too loosely, that the bands are symmetrical and that the leg cuffs are turned up.
Even if you don't always love change diaper, you'll love knowing your little one feels dry and comfortable in their diaper. Plus, as you become a diaper pro, diaper changes will become easier and easier. Before you know it you'll be done!
