Baby Diaper Changes

Diaper changes can be awkward for first time parents. The baby is squirming, often poops or pees in the middle of a change and the effort seems to be wasted when the baby soils or wets the fresh diaper immediately. Still, diaper changes are necessary ten or more times a day with a newborn. Here are some tips that will help make diaper changes as easy as possible.

Basic Supplies Needed for Changing Baby

A well-stocked changing table is essential, especially in those early weeks with a newborn. Be sure to have these items within reach for quick, easy diaper changes.

Whether you use cloth or disposable, have a stack of clean diapers accessible. Baby wipes can be homemade from paper towels, store bought or can be nothing more than a clean washcloth, but they are crucial for cleaning up messy poops. Diaper rash ointment is not necessary most of the time, but for the times that your baby needs it, you'll want to have a tub of it nearby. A baby can go through a few outfits a day, so have a stack of clean clothes on the changing table. Sometimes diaper changes can be messy, so it helps to have clean towels near the changing table. Keep a towel under the baby while you change the diaper and replace as needed.

Changing Diapers on the Go

Of course, you and your baby are not always at home when a diaper change is needed. A well-stocked diaper bag is crucial. All of the items that you have on the changing table at home need to be carried along. Be sure to include a travel diaper changing pad.

Many public restrooms have pull-down baby changing tables. But, if you find yourself in a situation where there is no changing station, find a discrete place, such as a fitting room in a department or clothing store. In a worst case scenario, you may have to change baby on the floor, so a good quality diaper changing pad is essential. The First Years Deluxe Fold 'n' Go Diaper Kit, available at Target, is a large changing pad that will thoroughly protect babies from the floor and other surfaces during diaper changes.

Diaper Changing Challenges

Most babies enjoy being changed. But, as a baby gets older, she may be impatient with them. Older babies and toddlers often don't like to interrupt their play for the business of a diaper change. To help, distract the baby with a toy or silly song. Or, give the baby something to hold, like a baby wipe or clean diaper.

The key to diaper changes is to be prepared, whether your baby is young or approaching the toddler years. Make diaper changing easier by having a fully stocked changing table and diaper bag. Be prepared to distract an older baby who is uncooperative. Before you know it, diaper changes will be a thing of the past.