How To Change a Nappy? A Stepwise Guide

As you newly enter parenthood, you experience many things for the first time. Some you wish you could avoid; one such is changing nappies. However, nappy changing is as much a part of parenting as feeding your little one.

So, if you’re confused about how to put on a nappy on your newborn, then don’t worry! We’re here with a stepwise guide to walk you through it and will also answer some other questions that you may possibly have!

How Often Should You Change Nappy?

Young babies or newborns need changing around 10 to 12 times a day. As they get older, this decreases to 6 to 8 times a day.

It’s always highly advised to change your baby’s nappy as soon as possible after they’ve done a wee or poo to help prevent nappy rashes.

What Things You Need For Nappy Changing?

Before you start changing your baby’s nappy, there are some things you need to keep alongside for a smoother process. These are:

• A changing mat or towel
• Nappies
• Cotton wool and a bowl of warm water
• Baby wipes or baby washcloth
• Barrier cream to protect your baby’s skin from redness or rashes
• A plastic bag or nappy bin for the dirty nappy and dirty cotton wool or wipes
• A clean change of clothes
• If possible nappy liners

Nappy liners trap the solids and make cleaning a lot easier, especially if you're using cloth nappies. If you wish to check them out, you can have a look at our nappy liner products here. These Jumpy Moos Biodegradable Cloth Nappy liners are designed with 100% natural bamboo sheets. Bamboo material will prevent your baby's skin from a nappy rash, making it the best choice for babies with highly sensitive skin. Moreover, washing your baby's cloth nappies will become a lot easier, and you won't have to spend more money on disposable nappies.

We also offer hypoallergenic baby wash clothes and baby laundry bags for dirty diapers.

Where to change a nappy?

The best place to change a nappy is the floor. By spreading out a changing mat or towel, you won’t have to worry about your baby becoming vulnerable to germs. This is the safest option in case you have other young kids that you may need to tend to instantly or if you have to go grab something for a nappy change. It avoids the risk of your baby falling from a changing table if you’re away for even seconds.

In case you’re using a changing table, do keep an eye on the baby the entire time. Never turn your back or walk away!

How to change a nappy?  

Below is a guide on how to change a baby's diaper step by step:

1. Wash your hands and make sure you have everything you need alongside.
2. Lay the baby down on a changing mat/towel and sing or talk to the baby to keep them engaged. Hold your baby tightly to avoid falls if you’re using a changing table.
3. Undress baby’s bottom half and undo the nappy. Keep a spare cloth/wipe in case baby wees. Use the front of the nappy to wipe off poo. Fold the nappy tightly to stop spills.
4. Dispose the nappy.
5. Lift baby’s bottom, use baby wipes/ damp washcloth/ damp cotton wool to gently clean the area. Always wipe front to back.
6. Put on nappy cream.
7. For disposable nappies: hold baby’s legs up and put a clean nappy beneath baby’s bottom. Fold the front flap upwards, tuck it around baby’s waist and attach tabs to seal. Make sure not to cover newborn belly buttons.
8. For Cloth nappies: hold baby’s legs up and put a clean nappy beneath baby’s bottom. Follow manufacturer instructions given to fit the nappy. Don’t cover newborn belly buttons.

Disposable nappies or Washable (reusable) Cloth nappies?

Both have got their pros and cons.

Disposable nappies do not require washing and are easy to dispose of. However, they cost more than cloth nappies as they’re non-reusable and must be bought consistently. They’re the best fit for traveling. And if you're looking for disposable nappies that aren't harmful for the environment, check out the bamboo nappy liners by Jumpy Moo's. 

On the other hand, cloth nappies must be washed daily, which takes up a lot of time, especially if you’re a working parent. However, they’re more cost-efficient, so if you’re on a tight budget, these will work perfectly.

How Often Does a Newborn Poop?

On average, babies poop 4 times a day, and as they turn one year old, this may decrease to twice a day.

Your baby's first poo is called meconium which is greenish-black and sticky. The newborn does this in the first 48 hours.

After a few days, the poo will change to a yellowish mustard color. It's totally normal for your baby to cry during poo.

How Often Should a Breast-fed Newborn Poop?

Breastfed newborn babies may poop after every feed and once they’re 6 weeks old, they may not have a poo for several days. If you’re breastfeeding your baby, then the poop will be odorless and runny.

How Often Should a Newborn Poop on Formula?

Formula fed newborns may poo up to 5 times a day and after a few months, this may decrease to once a day.

If you’re formula feeding your baby, then the poop will be smellier, firm, and darker in color.

Conclusion

Changing your newborn’s nappy may be tough at first but with time and practice it’ll become a second nature. Knowing that your little one is safe and comfortable will wash away all your reluctance, so make sure to check if your newborn needs changing every few hours.