How to Change a Baby's Diaper

Not much has really changed since the days of diaper pins - whether you choose to go the route of cloth or disposable diapers, you'll follow more or less the same procedure.

Things You'll Need

• Baby Washcloths
• Baby Wipe Warmers
• Changing Pads
• Diaper Changing Tables
• Terry Cloth Towels
• Baby Cornstarch Powder
• Cotton Balls And Swabs
• Diaper-rash Ointments
• Talcum Powder
• Terry cloth towels

Instructions

1. Lay a fresh diaper on a changing table, or on a towel or mat on the floor.

2. Place your baby, tummy side up, on top of the clean diaper.

3. Unfasten the diaper tabs on the soiled diaper.

4. Hold your baby's feet together and very gently lift them up, raising the baby's bottom. Use the clean part of the diaper to wipe away any excess stools, then fold over the soiled section of the diaper and set the old diaper aside.

5. Wipe your baby's buttocks and genitals gently from front to back with baby wipes. Don't forget the lower back and the skin folds of the thighs. (A baby girl might get stools around her labia and vagina, so clean that area gently with baby wipes.)

6. Lower your baby's bottom onto the clean diaper.

7. Pat the area dry with a towel; cornstarch powder is optional.

8. Apply diaper-rash cream to the area if necessary.

9. Make sure to pull up the back of the clean diaper high enough to prevent leaks. Position the front of the diaper just under the baby's abdomen.

10. Bring the tabs around from the back of the diaper and fasten them to the front.

11. Turn diapering into a game of peek-a-boo to distract your baby.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash your hands before and after all diaper changes, and remember that frequent changes help prevent diaper rash.

• Never leave your baby unattended on a changing table.

• Talcum powder or baby powder that contains talc can cause upper respiratory problems in babies. Instead, use cornstarch powder, and apply it carefully to prevent inhalation.