How to Change a Diaper - Expert Tips on Changing a Baby

Step 3: Always have one hand on the baby  If you are reaching for something, you want to make sure they are not going anywhere.  This usually moves and can roll as they get a little older but it’s good practice when you are learning how to change a diaper.

Step 4: Put a clean diaper under the current one.  Hold the baby’s feet and pull up a bit so you can slide the clean diaper under the current one.  Sure there can be risks of getting the clean diaper dirty but it’s easier to throw that away that to have to wash your changing pad, blanket or carpet.  Putting this clean diaper under is simply more efficient and easier.

Step 5: Open the dirty diaper.  Pull on the tabs and open the diaper. There is something about the diaper being off that babies do have a tendency to go to the bathroom.  They are not out to get you even though it can sometimes feel like that.  If your baby starts to urinate or poop just cover them with the diaper and let them go.

Step 6: Wipe the baby clean.  You are holding the baby’s feet back.  Remember if it is a girl, always wipe front to back to avoid infection. Keep in mind they may try to reach down. It doesn’t really happen with newborns but just be aware.

Step 7: Remove dirty diaper and wipes: If your baby squirms, then just move it to the side where they can’t reach it.  If not, wrap the dirty diaper up and secure it with the tabs and then put it aside.

Step 8: Apply diaper cream:  We did not wait until our baby’s had a rash.  We applied it nearly every time we changed a diaper unless it was only a pee diaper and the paste was still on.  We used a product called butt paste (put on screen)  It was great.   Our children never had diaper rashes.  Pro-tip, if you don’t want to apply the paste directly using your finder, wrap your finger with a wipe, then apply the cream.

Step 9:  Secure clean diaper:  Remember your clean diaper was already in place so bring the bottom up and secure the tabs on both sides.  As a newborn, they may still have umbilical cord stump so fold the diaper down a little do it doesn’t rub on that and irritate them.Step 10:  Throw away dirty diaper:  Dispose of the dirty diaper in the trash.  We had multiple diaper genies which are great.  (diaper genie on screen)It’s a device that holds many dirty diapers and easily disposes of them into a bag.  It also keeps the smell pretty well contained.  It’s an investment especially with the refill bags but we felt it was worth it.

Step 11: Wash your hands: You’ll probably want to wipe your baby’s too just for habit but it’s a good idea when you are learning how to change a diaper.

Bonus tip: kiss your baby.  Make diaper changing a fun bonding experience for you and your baby.  I’d love to hear from you.  Did you just have your baby or about to have a baby?  Leave your feedback in the comments section below.