How and Where to Change a Nappy

No matter how wonderful they smell right after a bath, sometimes a messy nappy will make even the sweetest baby a bit hard on the nose. Changing a nappy is a simple procedure and takes only a few minutes.

Where to Change a Nappy

At home, a changing table is the ideal place to change your baby's nappy. Situated at a height designed to be friendly to your back, changing tables provide a safe and convenient location with easy access to all the necessary supplies. If you don't have a changing table, you can change the baby on the floor.

In public places, look for bathrooms that are equipped with baby changing stations. Since not all public washrooms are set up for changing a baby, there will undoubtedly be times where you will have to make do in a less than ideal situation. Be sure to keep a changing pad in your nappy bag in case you are forced to change your baby on a countertop or floor.

Changing a Nappy

The first time that you change a nappy, you may feel that you are all thumbs. After a few tries, however, it will become second nature and you will be able to complete the job in just a minute or two.

• Gather all the necessary supplies including a fresh nappy, baby wipes, and rash prevention ointment (optional) and have them at hand. It is unsafe to leave a baby unattended on a changing table, even for a moment, so be sure that you have everything that you will need.
• Lay the baby on his/her back with the legs facing you and remove any clothing from the waist down.
• Remove the soiled nappy by unfastening the tapes or Velcro tabs, grasping the baby's feet with one hand and lifting the baby's bottom enough to remove the used nappy. Set the soiled nappy aside, beyond the baby's reach.
• Using baby wipes, gently but thoroughly clean the baby's nappy area. In girls, be sure to wipe from front to back.
• Place a clean nappy under the baby's bottom and apply ointment, if desired.
• Pull the sides of the nappy around the baby and fasten the tabs.
• Redress the baby and be sure to remove him/her from the changing table before walking away.
• Wash your hands thoroughly and discard the soiled nappy in the outside bin or in a sealed nappy pail.

Final Words

While changing nappies may not be the most pleasant task that parents do, it is important to change a baby's frequently to avoid nappy rash. Keeping a baby's bottom clean and dry is the key to keeping their skin healthy.