How to Diaper a Baby

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The average newborn goes through 8 to 15 diapers a day and it's a great time for learning about and snuggling your baby. You will quickly learn the funny faces and behaviours they perform to give you the signal that it's changing time. It's important to change your baby's diaper frequently and clean them properly at each change to avoid them getting diaper rash (red and painful rash around the diaper area).

Be sure to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before and after you change your baby. You want to make sure the area you are changing your baby is clean, safe, and you have everything you need near you (clean diaper, wipes, ointments or creams, etc.). Remember to never leave your baby unattended on a change table and keep one hand on your baby at all times. If your baby boy is newly circumcised, or your baby's umbilical stump has not fallen off as yet, special care is needed when changing their diaper.

There are many options for diapers including cloth (reuseable), disposable and hybrids of both. You can try out different kinds to see what fits your baby best and what works for your lifestyle.

For step-by-step instructions and videos on how to change your baby's diaper, and information on picking what type of diaper to use, wipes, ointments/creams, how to know if your baby needs changing, preventing diaper rash and more, please see the resources below.