How to Change a Diaper – Step-by-Step Guide for Babies

Changing a diaper is a necessary part of caring for a baby, and it is important to do it properly to prevent diaper rash and keep your baby clean and comfortable.

Here is a step-by-step guide to How to Change a diaper

Have everything at hand: Take a moment to consider the items that you need within arm’s reach. This will help keep you on track and allow you to focus on your baby while changing, which can be a challenge when they’re still new to the world. If you plan to change them on the floor in the living room, then it’s important to have items such as a changing pad, diaper cream, and warm wipes at hand. 

Separate from these items are the ones that should always be kept with you: baby oil for those little bumps, toilet paper, and a washcloth so there’s no need to stop mid-flow when it comes time for things like burping or wiping down after changing clothes.

Gather your supplies:  You will need a clean diaper, wipes, and any creams or ointments that your newborn may need. If using cloth diapers, and a place to dispose of the soiled diaper.

Lay your baby on a changing table or on a clean, flat surface. If your baby is able to roll over, make sure to keep one hand on them at all times to keep them from rolling off the table.

Use washable changing pads: A baby changing pad is the best way to ensure that your child has a safe, clean place to change their clothes. The safest and easiest baby-changing pads are completely washable and covered in plastic. Some have thick foam padding while others fold up easily for travel. Any type of changing pad will do; however, make sure it’s large enough for your baby’s age and stage of development.

Distract your baby: Make sure to keep your baby entertained while you change a diaper. Try hanging a mobile above their changing area or even playing a little hiding game while getting the job done: be silly and put the diaper on your head or hide it in your shirt or behind your back. If you need to keep a wiggly baby occupied, put an interesting toy in their hands. This may also help if your little one has a habit of reaching down toward their diaper while you’re trying to change a baby’s diaper.

Remove the soiled diaper: If your baby is a boy, gently lift his legs and remove the diaper from under him. If your baby is a girl, lift her legs and slide the diaper out from under her. Be sure to dispose of the soiled diaper properly.

Read more: Tips to Take Care of Yourself as New Moms

Clean your baby’s bottom: Use a wipe to gently clean your baby’s genital area and bottom. Wipe from front to back to prevent the spread of bacteria. If your baby has a bowel movement, use more wipes to clean the area thoroughly.

Apply any creams or ointments as needed: If your toddler has a diaper rash or needs any other diaper rash creams or ointments, now is the time to apply them.

Put on a clean diaper: Open the clean diaper and slide it under your newborn baby’s bottom. The front of the diaper should be centered between your baby’s legs.

Fasten the diaper: Secure the tabs on the diaper by bringing them around to the front of your baby and fastening them together. Make sure the diaper is snug, but not too tight.

how often to change a newborn’s diaper: every two to three hours, or as often as needed you should change a baby’s diaper and if think it’s time to change a newborn’s diaper. As your little one may urinate in one to two hours and you should check if they poop in between.

Clean up. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, and dispose of any used wipes and the soiled diaper properly.

By following these diaper-changing steps, you can properly change your baby’s diaper and keep them clean and comfortable.

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