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How to Change a Diaper
Whether you choose cloth or disposable diapers, the steps are pretty much the same. To begin, make sure you have everything you need nearby.
- An unfolded diaper with the tabs pointing out
- Wipes or soft paper towels and warm water
- Diaper-rash cream, if needed
1. Place your baby on their back on the changing pad, and if you are using a changing table, don't forget to use your safety straps!
2. Release the tabs, and raise your child's bottom by gently grabbing their ankles and lifting.
3. Slide the used diaper out from underneath your baby, and place it out of their reach, leaving it open if possible.
4. For newborns, cleanse the previously diapered area using a soft paper towel dipped in warm water, as wipes can irritate their sensitive skin. Most pediatricians recommend waiting to use wipes until your baby is about two months old. For girls, it is important to remember to wipe from front to back to prevent infection. For boys, you may want to place a folded paper towel or another clean diaper between his legs to avoid any surprise showers!
5. For babies older than two months, cleanse the previously diapered area using baby wipes. Don't forget to wipe the areas "hidden" by rolls of skin. For girls, be sure to wipe from front to back to avoid infection.
6. Put all dirty paper towels or wipes inside the dirty diaper.
7. Slide a clean diaper underneath your baby, tabs to the back. Disposable diapers usually have a colorful picture around the waistband to indicate which part should be placed in front.
8. Apply diaper rash cream, if necessary.
9. Pull the front of the diaper up over their belly, and pull the tabs open and around from the back to fasten in the front. The diaper should be snug to avoid leaks but be careful not to make it too tight. For newborns, be sure to fold the front of the diaper down before fastening the tabs until the cord has completely fallen off.
10. Wrap up the dirty diaper, fastening it together with the tabs, and discard.
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