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6 Diaper Changing Steps  Every Parent Needs to Know

The best diaper changing technique is the one that lets you change your baby’s diaper the fastest and with the least amount of fuss. Whether you’re in a public restroom or your own home, sometimes you need to change your baby as quickly as possible, so knowing how to do it correctly will make all the difference. These six essential diaper changing steps are all simple and easy to learn, so you can take them on the go with you when necessary!

Step 1: Lay Baby Down

When you’re ready to start changing your baby’s diaper, it’s always a good idea to lay him or her down on a clean and comfy surface, like your bed or couch. Laying them on their back will ensure that they are secure, making it much easier for you to complete all of your diapering tasks with ease. Additionally, make sure to remove any blankets or toys from under your child before laying them down; otherwise, these items could end up getting tossed around during diaper changes.

Step 2: Remove Old Diaper

First, remove any disposable diaper you might be using by pulling it down and away from your baby. If you’re using a cloth diaper, simply pull it off and discard it in an appropriate place—or rinse it out and hang it up to dry.

Now that your baby is wearing nothing but his or her birthday suit, you can begin to clean their bottom. Many people prefer to do so with wipes first, then follow up with water if necessary.

No matter what kind of material you use, be sure to wash your hands after every diaper change! You don’t want to pass along any nasty bacteria or germs that could cause your child harm later on.

 

Step 3: Get New Diaper Ready

Lay a clean diaper out and lay your baby belly-down on top of it. Place one hand under her legs and use your other hand to slide off the dirty diaper. Toss it in a nearby trash can. Then, place your baby’s feet into one side of the new diaper.

(If you have a boy, make sure his penis is pointing down toward his feet.)

Slide your hand up from underneath her bottom, bringing along some of that fresh powder with you as you go. Then, fold over that back portion of the diaper so that it fits snugly around her waist and bottom. Secure with tape or fasteners. Repeat with the remaining side and then stand up with your little bundle!

Step 4: Put on New Diaper

Before putting on a new diaper, it’s important to clean up any messes your baby may have made. Use a wipe or cloth and warm water to thoroughly clean baby’s bottom. Make sure that you change him into a fresh pair of clothes at least once a day.

This will not only keep his skin healthy, but also help keep your floors and furniture clean! When putting on your baby’s new diaper, lay it out flat before sliding it under their bottom.

Step 5: Clean Baby

With a warm wipe, clean baby’s bottom from front to back. Front-to-back cleaning helps prevent germs from traveling from baby’s anus toward his urethra, which is where urinary tract infections can occur.
It also helps protect against ecoli and other harmful bacteria that can get into an open wound or urinary tract.

After you clean your baby’s bottom, fold up your dirty wipes and throw them away in a covered trash can. Wash your hands with soap and water to help remove any germs you may have picked up while changing your child.

Step 6:Wash your hands and the baby's hands

Always begin by washing your hands and your baby's hands. Germs are one of the biggest causes of diaper rash, so proper hygiene is a must! This can be done before or after you change a diaper.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice). Rinse well under running water. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Make sure it doesn't contain any moisturizers or scents that could irritate sensitive skin. Then wipe down your baby's hands with a clean towel or disposable wipe using gentle strokes from wrist to fingertips.