Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 3: Necessary Tools
• Method 2 of 3: Changing disposable diapers
• Method 3 of 3: Changing Cloth Diapers
• Tips
• Warnings

Changing a diaper often causes apprehension, fear and jokes among new parents and caregivers. Babies and toddlers who are not potty-trained should change their diapers every few hours to avoid skin irritation and discomfort. Change the diaper using the necessary tools; position the baby in a safe place and properly dispose of used diapers.

Steps

Method 1 of 3: Necessary Tools

1. 1 Keep everything you need for changing a diaper in easy-to-reach places and in places where you usually change a diaper.
   • Place everything you need on or near the changing table in your child's bedroom, or on your bedside table if you are changing diapers on your bed.
   • Complete your diaper bag or backpack with everything you need in case you have to change your baby's diaper when you are not at home.
2. 2 Place clean diapers in a place where they can be taken easily. When you leave home, bring at least one clean diaper for every two hours you will be away.
3. 3 Use wet wipes or diapers, whichever you use to clean your baby's bottom during a diaper change.
4. 4 Keep your diaper rash cream, powder near the place where you change the diaper, especially if your little one is prone to rashes. Don't forget to put some of the above in your diaper bag.
5. 5 Find a clean, safe and warm place to change your baby's diaper. Use a changing table, changing mattress, or simply place a blanket on the floor or bed.
6. 6 Wash your hands before and after changing the diaper.

Method 2 of 3: Changing disposable diapers

1. 1 Place the back of a clean diaper under your baby. The part of the diaper with the Velcro is the back part.
2. 2 Unbutton the dirty diaper. Glue them to the dirty diaper to prevent them from sticking to the baby's skin.
3. 3 Pull the dirty diaper out from under your baby. If the diaper is wet, pull the back of the soiled diaper out from under the baby's bottom. If there is any faeces on the diaper, try to wipe them off the baby with the front of the diaper.
   • Cover the baby's penis if it is a boy. Use another diaper or a clean diaper. Sometimes boys will pee during a diaper change and you are unlikely to enjoy it.
4. 4 Fold the dirty diaper and set it aside. You can throw it away when the baby is completely changed and removed from the changing table, bed, or any other comfortable coverings.
5. 5 Wipe the baby's bottom with a tissue or dry cloth.
   • Check the baby's back and the skin between the thighs if there was any bowel movement in the diaper. Wipe up any dirty areas.
6. 6 Pull the front of the clean diaper forward. Secure the diaper on each side with the Velcro straps.
   • Make sure the diaper fits snugly, but not too tight. The skin should not be squeezed or red.
7. 7 Dress your baby and place him on the floor or in a safe place to throw away the diaper and wash his hands.

Method 3 of 3: Changing Cloth Diapers

1. 1 Unfold the clean diaper and follow the directions for use. Some diapers come with specially sewn inlays, and the instructions will tell you how to put the diaper on your baby.
2. 2 Unbutton the dirty diaper and lower the front. If the diaper is wet, pull the front section out from under the baby and set it aside.
   • Cover the baby's penis if it is a boy. Be aware of boys' penchant for diaper changes.
3. 3 Use the front of the diaper to wipe up any faeces that may be on the baby's bottom.
4. 4 Wipe your baby's bottom with a tissue or damp cloth. Check your back and skin between your thighs.
5. 5 Place a clean diaper under the baby and pull the front of the baby over until you reach the navel.
6. 6 Fasten a cloth diaper. Use any buttons or Velcro that may be attached to the diaper. You can also swaddle or pin with a safety pin.
   • If you are using a vinyl covering, place it over a cloth diaper.
7. 7 Dress your baby and put him or her in a safe place while you clean the dirty diaper and wash your hands.
8. 8 Shake or scrape whatever you can from the dirty diaper to the toilet. Rinse the diaper before putting it in the wash.

Tips

• Point the baby's penis down into the diaper when you change the boy. This will prevent leakage.
• Distract your baby while changing diapers if he or she is nervous. Let your baby hold the toy or sing a song to him while changing the diaper.

Warnings

• Remember to never leave your baby unattended on a changing table or high surface. Even in a second, the baby can roll off the changing table or bed.