NEWBORN : WEEK 1 - Diapering guide: Step-by-step instructions

2. Diapering guide: Step-by-step instructions

Whether you're working with cloth diapers or disposables, our handy step-by-step guide reveals the secrets to diapering success.

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P R E P A R A T I O N
Wash and dry your hands (you can use a baby wipe).

Set up a warm, clean, dry area to change your baby. In the beginning you'll probably use a changing table, but a changing cloth or clean cloth diaper on any soft, warm surface will work, too.

Prepare your supplies, including a clean diaper and plenty of wipes. If you're using disposables, have a plastic bag ready for disposal; if you've opted for cloth, you'll need to include a diaper wrap or diaper pins and plastic pants. If your baby has or is prone to diaper rash, keep some ointment or petroleum jelly on hand.
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C H A N G I N G A D I S P O S A B L E D I A P E R



1. Unfasten the tabs and fasten them back on themselves so they don't stick to your baby, but don't remove the dirty diaper yet.

2. Wipe away excess poop from his genital area with the corner of the diaper, taking care to cover the penis with a clean cloth if your baby is a boy, so he doesn't pee all over himself (and you) while you're changing him.

3. Grasp your baby by the ankles and lift his bottom off the changing table.

4. Fold the dirty diaper in half under your baby, unsoiled side up.

5. Use a baby wipe or wet cloth to clean your baby's front thoroughly. For a girl, be sure to wipe from front to back. This will help minimize the possibility that bacteria will get into her vagina and cause an infection.

6. Lift both of your baby's legs and clean his bottom with a wipe or wet cloth.

7. Swap a clean diaper for the dirty one. The clean diaper's top half (look for the tabs) should go under your baby's bottom, and the other half should come up between his legs (which should be spread as widely as is comfortable for your baby).

Try not to bunch the diaper between your baby's legs since it can cause chafing and discomfort. For newborns, avoid covering the umbilical cord (you can get special newborn diapers with notches cut out for the stump). For boys, be sure to tuck the penis down so his urine will flow down into the diaper instead of out the top.

8. Fasten the diaper at both sides with the tapes, making sure it's snug, but not so tight that it pinches his skin. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific tips.

Retape the soiled diaper around the contents, put it in a plastic bag, and toss it in the trash. Dress your baby, and wash your hands thoroughly. That's it — you're done!

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