Follow these step-by-step instructions on changing your baby’s diaper, plus get tips on what diaper essentials to have on hand.
While the frequent diaper changes may not be your favorite part of the parent job, they’re still part of the baby care package. And it’s important for baby too, since changing a diaper whenever it’s wet or messy helps prevent irritation and diaper rash.
Here’s everything new parents need to know about changing baby’s diapers, including how to make the process as easy as possible.
Diapering essentials to have on hand
Before you get started, be sure you have the following diapering essentials nearby:[1]
- Clean diapers. It’s always good to have a couple of spares handy when you’re changing diapers.
- Unscented or water wipes, or clean cotton balls, water and washcloths. Newborns under 1 month old and those with diaper rash have especially sensitive skin, so it’s better to use mostly water in those cases, says Gina Posner, M.D., F.A.A.P., a board-certified pediatrician at MemorialCare Medical Group Opens a new windowin Fountain Valley, California, and a member of the What to Expect Medical Review Board. You can use warm water and a cotton ball to clean baby off and a washcloth for drying. “There are many wipes now that are mostly water, and those are fine as well,” Dr. Posner adds. For older infants, any pre-moistened wipes work; look for those that are hypoallergenic and free of fragrance and alcohol.
- A change of clothes for baby. You might need one if the diaper has leaked (it happens!).
- Clean diaper wraps or waterproof pants. If you’re using cloth diapers, you’ll want these on hand.
- Ointment to prevent and/or soothe diaper rash. If baby has diaper rash, an ointment creates a barrier between that tender bottom and skin-irritating poop and pee. No need for lotions, baby oil or powder. “The key is getting the area very dry as best you can,” says Micah Resnick, M.D., F.A.A.P., a board-certified pediatrician with TriHealth Opens a new window in Cincinnati, Ohio, and a member of the What To Expect Medical Review Board.
- A loving touch. Your gentle voice (talking or singing) and touch can make diaper changes easier on your baby — and easier on you too.
- A distraction. Keep a favorite toy visible and even a music box or mechanical toy nearby for a distraction, especially if you’ve got a squirmy baby.
Once you’ve got everything you need ready to go, wash and dry your hands. If that’s not possible, give them a good swipe with a diaper wipe.
