Step-by-Step Directions on How to Change a Diaper

Changing a baby's diaper for the first time can be intimidating for someone who has never done it before. Whether you are a first-time parent or a babysitter or other caretaker, understanding the steps involved in changing a baby's diaper can help you be more confident about your baby-care skills and make your relationship with the baby much smoother.

Instructions

1

Gather your supplies next to where you will change the baby. You can change a baby on a changing table, bed, rug or any other flat surface. You will need a clean diaper, wipes, diaper cream and a pad to place under the baby. For cloth diapers, you also need diaper pins and a diaper cover.

2

Lay the baby on an absorbent pad on a flat surface. The baby should be face up with his feet toward you.

3

Unfasten both sides of the diaper and use the front half to wipe the baby's bottom to remove any solid matter.

4

Lift the baby's ankles gently and fold the top half of the diaper under his bottom. Lower his feet again.

5

Wipe the baby's genitals and bottom with a clean baby wipe. You might need to use more than one if the baby is particularly messy. Make sure you also get the creases where the legs meet the body. For girls, always wipe from front to back to help prevent infections.

6

Spread diaper cream over any areas that seem red or inflamed to protect the baby from diaper rash.

7

Slide the dirty diaper out from under the baby and replace it with a clean diaper. Spread the clean diaper out wide at the front and back.

8

Fold the front half of the diaper up over the baby's front. The top should be right around the baby's belly button. If the umbilical cord is still present, avoid putting the diaper directly over it and instead fold the top of the diaper down slightly.

9

Fasten the sides of the diaper using the plastic tabs of a disposable diaper or by pinning the front and back of a cloth diaper together with a diaper pin. The diaper should fit snugly on the baby.

10

Throw away the dirty diaper and wash and dry your hands before picking up the baby.