Diaper Changing: Changing Your Baby's Disposable Diaper

Diaper changing can be daunting for new parents, but you'll get the hang of it after a few trials.

Preparation is Key
It's important to gather everything you need before you a diaper change. Leaving your baby unattended on a changing table can be dangerous, as changing tables are usually set a few feet off the ground for your convenience. Gather the following items:

  • a fresh diaper
  • wet cloth to clean baby's genital area
  • trash can to dispose of diaper
  • diaper rash cream
  • fresh outfit in case your baby makes a mess

Also, remember that a cream is better for your baby's bum. While powders were used to keep the area dry, they have been found to be harmful when breathed in by your infant as many contain carcinogens.

Step by Step Diapering Instructions
Remember to buy age specific diapers when you shop at the grocery store; a diaper created for a one year old might be bigger than your newborn infant.

Step One. Unfasten your baby's diaper tabs, and then stick them back to themselves so they don't stick to your baby. Diaper tabs are usually either a tape or Velcro, neither of which your baby will appreciate making contact with. Don't remove the diaper from underneath your baby! Most importantly, if you have a baby boy, cover his penis with a wet cloth to avoid his sudden, unexpected urinations and the soiling of your clothes.

Step Two. Using the diaper, wipe away any poop present in your baby's diaper.

Step Three. Hold your baby's ankles in one hand and gently raise the ankles to lift the baby's bum in the air. Now fold the diaper in half underneath your baby so that the clean, outer side of the diaper is facing up.

Step Four. Grab one of your wet wipes, and gently clean the front genital area. If you have a baby girl, clean the vagina front to back so that poop bacteria won't cause an infection.

Step Five. Next, lift your baby's bum again by holding and raising the ankles. Use a fresh wet cloth to thoroughly but gently clean the baby's bum.

Step Six. Grab a fresh diaper and place it under your baby's bum, switching it with the soiled diaper. The diaper end with the tabs should be under your baby, and the rest brought between the legs and to the front.

Step Seven. Fasten the diaper so that it's snug but not too tight. Remember not to cover your newborn's umbilical cord while it's still healing.

Remember, practice makes perfect.

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