How to Diaper an Infant

Changing a diaper might seem like a simple task, but every parent knows that diaper changes can often be unpredictable and messy. The key to a smooth diaper change experience for you and your infant is being prepared and having everything you need at hand. By establishing a well-planned diaper changing routine, diapering an infant can become a relatively predictable, not to mention much cleaner, experience.

Instructions

1

Place all necessary items on the diaper changing stand or near where you will be changing your infant.

2

Lay the infant on the changing table or portable changing pad. Always keep the infant within arm's reach. Never leave a baby unattended on a diaper changing table even if he or she is not yet mobile.

3

Give the baby and infant toy (such as a rattle) to keep him occupied during the change. Some parents prefer to sing or make funny faces during the diaper change instead. Either option are both good forms of entertainment that will keep the infant's attention occupied and off the diaper change experience.

4

Loosen the tabs of the infant's diaper but do not remove it fully.

5

Look to see if there has been a bowel movement or if it is just a urine diaper. Keep the diaper over a male infant's penis to avoid spraying.

6

Fold the dirty diaper under the infant's bottom with the clean, outer part of the diaper facing up. Keep a male infant's penis covered with a washcloth throughout the diaper change.

7

If you are changing a newborn use the wet washcloth to gently clean the baby. Start with the front of the baby and then lift both of the infant's legs and clean the backside. Pat it dry with the dry washcloth.

8

If the baby is not a newborn, use wipes to complete the above step.

9

Remove the dirty diaper from underneath the infant.

10

Place a new diaper under the infant while still holding up both of her legs.

11

If the infant needs baby powder or diaper rash ointment, apply it now.

12

Pull the front of the new diaper up over the infant's front and secure it with the tabs on each side.

13

If diaper leakage occurred, change the infant's clothing.