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How to change a diaper

Learn the steps to change your baby's diaper. What you need to make a diaper change quick and safe.

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As a new parent, you will get plenty of practice changing diapers. The first time you actually do it may make you feel as though you will never be able to do it quickly and without breaking a sweat. It really is quite simple, though.

The first thing you want to do is to gather everything that you will need to change your baby. You will need a clean diaper, wipes, a burp cloth, rash guard, and a safe place to change your baby's diaper on, such as a changing table or bed. Don't ever leave your baby for a moment unattended on the bed or changing table. By gathering all the necessary items before you start, your baby's safety won't be in jeopardy.

First lay baby down: if you are using a changing table be sure to use the strap to secure your baby to prevent him/her from falling off. Remove your baby's clothes from the waist down. Don't leave them half way on at first because you never know when an accident will occur and you don't want to be changing your baby's complete outfit!

Next untape the soiled diaper, but don't remove it from underneath your baby's bottom. This will help to protect the surface from any sudden accidents. Also, place the burp cloth over your baby especially when changing little boys, this prevents any accidents from spraying up into your face or your baby's face. Take a wipe and begin to clean the diaper area. Be sure to always clean from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria that may cause infections. Take one hand and gently spread any folds and clean with the wipe, also.

Now open the new diaper, this makes it easier if done prior to placing it under your baby's bottom. Gently lift your baby's legs and remove the old diaper and place the clean one under your baby. The side with the tapes should go underneath. Take the rash guard and apply a little to your finger. Spread this over your baby's bottom evenly to help prevent a rash in the future. Pull the front of the diaper through your baby's legs and with one hand gently hold it down on baby's stomache. With your other hand untape one side and secure it to the front of the diaper. Do the same on the other side. You should be able to place two fingers inside the top of the front of the diaper. This will tell you if the diaper is too loose or too tight. If it needs to be adjusted, just untape carefully and adjust accordingly.

Now all you have to do is replace your baby's clothes and you are all done! When your baby gets a little bigger, you may want to add a favorite toy to the list of things to have on hand to occupy them when you are changing thier diaper, they tend to get a little more squirmy.

Your don't have to be afraid of your little one when changing thier diaper. It may take a little practice, but in no time you will do it without even thinking. Just remember that safety always comes first and to never leave your baby unattended for even a moment, that's all it takes for an accident to happen.




Written by Jacquelyn Smith - © 2002 Pagewise


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