If you’re expecting your first baby and have never had to change a baby’s nappy before it can be a daunting prospect. Making sure you’ve got the right nappies, knowing how to change the nappy and making sure your baby is clean, dry and comfortable are all things you’ll need to learn and master. Don’t worry, with a few useful tips and some recommended baby changing products you’ll be well prepared and changing a nappy will soon become second nature

Products for changing a nappy

Before your baby is born make sure you’re well equipped for changing their nappy. The essential products you’ll need include: changing mat, nappies, wipes and nappy cream.

Baby changing mats

A changing mat is a necessity and there are plenty to choose from. Changing mats can be placed on the floor or on a changing station or table. Your baby will roll and wriggle about while you change them so the floor is the best location.

If you find it difficult to change your baby on the floor (because of back problems for example) then a sturdy table or purpose built changing table is fine, just make sure your changing mat has secure harnesses to prevent your baby rolling off. Harnesses are also useful when changing your baby on the floor keeping your infant stable and comfortable.

Safe Harness Changing Mat

If you’re out and about, a travel changing mat or outdoor changing bag is ideal. A travel changing mat is a compact version of the mat you use at home and can hold all of your nappies, wipes and other changing essentials too.

Kiddopotamus Change Away Changing Mat

Nappies

The nappy debate between using disposable or reusable nappies has been going on for years with both sides arguing that one is more eco-friendly than the other. Ultimately the choice is yours and many parents opt for disposable nappies because of the convenience. However, reusable nappies have come a long way so read our top ten reasons to go reusable nappies before deciding which way to go.

If you decide to go reusable, the pre-folded nappy with removable washable or biodegradable liners offers the convenience of disposable nappies with the cost-effectiveness and green credentials of reusable nappies.

Bambino Mio Nappy Set

Baby wipes

For a newborn baby, or one who has sensitive skin, you’ll need a bowl of warm water and some cotton balls to clean them. Alternatively you can use baby wipes which are chemical free, biodegradable and flushable down the toilet.

Bambino Mio Baby Wipes

You’ll also need to buy some barrier cream (nappy rash cream) in case your baby has any rashes. The cream will help prevent the rash spreading further.

Changing a nappy

The first thing to consider is the safety and comfort of your baby so never leave your baby unattended while changing them. If it’s your first time changing a nappy you’re bound to be a bit nervous but try and remain calm otherwise your baby will pick up on your emotions and become distressed making the process even more difficult.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly. Hygiene is paramount when changing your baby’s nappy.

2. Place your baby on their back on the changing mat and secure them with the harnesses should you need to.

3. Next you’ll need to remove your baby’s lower clothing which will usually be a sleep suit or vest. Undo the poppers, pull the clothing up but keep your baby covered over the top half of their body so they stay warm.

4. To remove the nappy, undo the tape or fasteners at the top, open the nappy and then hold your baby by the ankles so you can raise their body up slightly. Slide the nappy away and roll it over as you go. If there’s any mess on the skin use the front of the nappy to wipe it away.

N.B. Be aware with boys that when removing a nappy, cold air is felt on the penis and they can wee into the air. Have some muslin close to hand to wipe away any accidents.

Muslin squares

5. Put the nappy in a nappy bag if you plan on disposing it or place it out of your baby’s reach if you plan to wash and reuse it.

6. Next you need to make sure your baby is clean so using your wipes or cotton wool and warm water wipe them from front to back. Wiping front to back is especially important for girls as wiping from the back to the front can spread bacteria from the rectum to the urinary tract. Make sure you clean the creases of the things and bottom properly.

7. You’ll now need to ensure your baby is dry so use a soft towel or some dry cotton balls.

8. If your baby has nappy rash (usually around the top of the thighs) then apply a little barrier cream to the affected area.

9. Now put a new nappy on. Nappies today are designed to make it easy for you to know which way round to put them. Usually they’ll be a picture at the front but as a general rule the tabs of the nappy always go under and at the back.

10. Gently lift your baby by the ankles and slide the nappy under. As a guide, use the belly button as where the nappy should be in place. If you’re having a boy, make sure their penis is pointing downwards before securing the nappy in place to prevent leakage out of the top of the nappy.

11. Wrap the adhesive tabs or fasteners across the tummy and secure. Don’t secure too tightly (but not too loose either) and avoid sticking the adhesive tape to their skin.

12. Now pull their clothes back down and do up the poppers.

13. Dispose of liners, wipes or cotton wool then wash your hands thoroughly.

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