Baby Diapering
Babies go through a lot of diapers! In fact, when you bring a baby home from the hospital, expect to change them at least 10 times each day.
Whether you’re a new parent or a seasoned veteran, you'll need to stock up on diapering supplies.
Think wipes, a diaper pail, rash cream, a diaper pad, and a diaper bag to tote all these necessities around when you’re away from the house.
In order to keep all these things organized, you can set up a diaper changing station in your home. Some parents use their baby’s nursery, while other parents have diaper stations on every floor for convenience.
Some parents also favor certain brands of diapering products, while others gravitate toward hypoallergenic and organic products.
Some parents only provide their babies with cloth diapers. If this is the case, they will need to stock up on cloth inserts, diaper covers, and a diaper sprayer, which attached to the side of most toilets.
Regardless of the method you select, it’s essential to have plenty of diapers and wipes on hand for when your baby comes home.
Most babies can wear the newborn size. But, because babies gain weight quickly, you should have the next size level on hand. Each disposable diaper package outlines the weight of the baby that it can fit and support.
There are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to diapering and diaper changing accessories.
Do ...
- Change your baby as soon as they are wet or soiled. This will ensure you meet their basic needs and avoid rashes from forming.
- Apply diaper rash cream after every change, regardless if a rash is present or not. This preventative measure cuts down on this painful rash.
- Make sure the diaper fits snugly. If you can fit your finger around the leg holes or rear, you’re asking for a leak to occur.
- Use overnight diapers in the evening. They are more absorbent and can hold a larger amount of liquid. This ensures your baby’s comfort and keeps them asleep longer.
- Go hypoallergenic. A baby’s skin is sensitive and lots of little ones have allergies. Opt for wipes that are fragrance free and that are mild to avoid irritations.
- Carry extra diapers with you when you leave your house and even keep some in your stroller or car. You never know when your baby will have a blow out.
- Change your baby’s diaper at least every two hours and immediately after they wake from a nap or overnight slumber.
- Wipe front to back, especially with girls.
- Clean your changing pad every few days (or immediately when soiled) by wiping it down with warm soapy water and tossing it’s cover in the wash.
- Use only water and a wash cloth to clean your baby’s bottom if they have a bad case of diaper rash.
Don't ...
- Use powder. The talc can irritate and interrupt a baby’s breathing.
- Use expired creams. Always check to make sure anything you put near your baby’s sensitive areas are fresh and safe.
- Try to get extra life out of old diapers. Meaning, if your child has graduated to the next diaper size, don’t try to squeeze them in any that you have leftover just to use them up. This could lead to major irritation and discomfort.
- Ignore a bad case of diaper rash. Sometimes, your baby could have an infection that needs to be treated.
- Leave any residue behind on your baby’s bottom. Wipe them thoroughly until they are fully clean.
- Let dirty diapers pile up. You can keep diapers in a diaper pail throughout the day, but the pail should be emptied at the end of each night, or immediately if your child has had a particularly smelly diaper.
- Change your baby’s diaper without washing your hands first. And, wash them immediately afterward.
There are many do’s and don’ts when it comes to healthy diapering practices. But, a parent quickly gets the hang of it and becomes a diaper changing pro in no time!
