How to Change a Diaper in Public

When there is no changing table readily available, it can be hard to change a baby's diaper in public. When changing a baby in public, it’s important to do so in a discreet area. While a restaurant booth or a seat on a bus would be an inappropriate place to change your baby's diaper, there are some solutions for changing a baby in public. To change your baby in public, follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Bring the baby to your car. Keeping a clean towel or changing pad in the fairly empty truck of a vehicle can make for a perfect emergency changing location. If you have an SUV, changing your baby by this method is perfect. You can also use a seat to change your baby on.

2. Wheel your baby to a discreet location in his stroller and change his diaper. If the stroller has a reclining seat, you can change your baby's diaper while he lays in his stroller. Handicap bathrooms stalls or store dressing rooms are great options. Be sure to lock the wheels while changing him.

3. Put a barrier beneath your baby and the surface you are changing him on. A plastic or disposable changing pad or paper towels are great choices. You want to protect your baby from germs.

4. Place a clean diaper under your baby's bottom. This way you can quickly pull out the dirty diaper from underneath his bottom and he will be directly on his clean diaper. This allows you to cover him quickly and keep his private parts private.

5. Toss the diaper. If there isn't any place to dispose of the diaper, put it in a plastic bag and take it with you until you can find a place to throw it out. Packing plastic bags in your diaper bag is always a good idea.

6. Clean your hands. Use hand sanitizer if you don't have access to soap and water.

Tips & Warnings

• If your baby has diarrhea or a messy stool, you may wish to bring your baby to a location where a changing table and soap and water are available.

• Always have at least one hand on your baby while changing.

Resources

• A video on public diaper changing