Let’s learn some tips on how to go about it successfully.
Getting Organized
Before you embark on changing your baby’s nappy, it’s important that you wash your hands. Thereafter, get in place everything you need. These may include:
- A changing towel
- Warm water
- Cotton wool
- Baby wipes
- A plastic bucket for the dirty wipes, nappies, or cotton wool
- A diaper rash cream for your baby’s skin
- A clean nappy
- Clean outfits
Note that the best place to change your baby’s nappy is on a towel or changing mat on the floor.
How to Clean Girls
Changing a girl’s diaper is different from how you would their male counterparts. For one, her urinary system is internal, thus more exposed unlike a boy’s. Using two fingers, separate her vaginal lips and wipe from front to back using a clean, moist or damp cloth or cotton wool.
How to Clean Boys
While baby boys require less cleaning requirements than girls, their skin is also delicate. Swish the water around while gently rubbing your baby’s skin. Note that you don’t need to rub his bottom. Ensure that you thoroughly clean the scrotum and penis from any trapped poo.
Avoid using soap or fragrance products on your baby as these may affect the natural balance of your baby’s skin.
Tips for changing your baby’s nappy
The following steps are essential in changing a nappy:
- Wash your hands
- Undress him
- Unfasten the dirty nappy
- Clean him up
- Dry him
- Apply barrier cream
- Put on a clean nappy
- Dress him up
- Wash your hands again
Using Cloth Nappies
If you’re using reusable nappies, it’s important to limit the influence of nappy rash on your baby’s skin. Ensure then that you:-
- Change your baby’s cloth diapers quite often
- Use nappy rash cream as a preventive measure
- Also, ensure the cloth nappies are dry to prevent the possibility of a secondary infection on your child’s skin.
Using Disposable Nappies
The use of disposable diapers may cause rashes on your baby’s skin. Therefore, ensure your baby’s bottom is well cleaned and dry.
Learn more about Nappy Options.
Interacting with Baby During Diaper Change
Nappy changing times offer the opportunity to teach your baby about hygiene. Therefore, it is good to create a positive nappy changing routine just like bath time. You may also get into simple play activities such as singing. You’re bound to make nappy change an interesting experience!
Disclaimers:
Please note that development differs from one child to another.
Content intended for educational purposes only, and not a substitute for medical advice from your doctor.
Be careful when using any products mentioned on this website. We hold no regulations for such products or their providers.
Last reviewed March 2019
Sources: careforkids, emmasdiary, rch
