Baby nappy change can be a nerve-wracking thing for some new parents. It’s a whole new experience for you, and it can take some time to get to grips with what you’re doing. We’ve put together a quick guide on all you need to know about baby nappy change.
Nappies
First of all, you have a few different choices when it comes to nappies. Disposable nappies are the most popular choice, as they’re convenient, and relatively hassle-free. You can find the traditional brands in the supermarket, but you can also find more and more nappies with eco-friendly materials available too. Reusable nappies are also becoming a much more popular choice, and some areas have services that will collect nappies on a weekly basis and return clean ones.
There’s no wrong choice when it comes to nappies. You need to choose the ones that will make life easier for you.
Wipes
Baby nappy change wipes are a convenient way to clean your little one’s bottom. However, most health care professionals recommend using very gentle wipes, or only plain cooled, boiled water and cotton wool. You should be aware that your baby’s first poos are meconium, which is dark and sticky. It may be a little more difficult to remove, but you should stick with water and cotton wool.
Barrier Cream
A barrier cream is designed to protect your baby’s delicate skin from becoming irritated. A good barrier cream such as Sudocrem Care & Protect can help you prevent nappy rash, as it’s designed to be used from birth at every nappy change to protect delicate skin and prevent irritants from coming into contact with the skin.
If your little one does develop nappy rash, you can use a nappy rash cream that’s designed to soothe the irritation, heal the rash, and provide relief such as Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream.
Baby Nappy Change: Step By Step Guide
- Gather up all your supplies. You’ll need a clean nappy, wipes or cotton wool and water, barrier cream, a changing mat or a clean towel, and a nappy bag or bin.
- Open the used nappy. Use the front of it to wipe backwards if the nappy is soiled. Wipe towards your baby’s back. Tuck the nappy with the clean outside under the baby’s bottom.
- Use the wipes, or the boiled water and cotton wool to wipe your little one. Always wipe from front to back. If needed, you can use some dry cotton wool to dry off your little one’s bottom.
- Apply a thin layer of a Sudocrem Care & Protect.
- Take the dirty nappy out from under your little one. If it’s a disposable nappy, put it in a nappy bag or bin. If you use reusable nappies, put it in a wet bag.
- Open up the clean nappy and slide it under your little one. Secure the front.
In the first few weeks, you’ll probably be doing around 12 baby nappy changes per day. As your little one gets older, this number will reduce slightly. You should be aware that some babies don’t notice a wet nappy and may not cry or show distress when feeling a wet nappy. Some nappies have a wetness indicator, which can be helpful.
Changing your newborn’s nappy for the first few weeks can cause you to feel nervous, but it does get easier!
