Nappy change

It’s funny how before you had kids the last thing you would want to talk about is the contents of a nappy. Now it’s probably one of your top discussion points between you, your partner and any new parenting friends. Nappy changing is an unavoidable part of having kids but it doesn’t have to be all about poo. The nappy change time can also be a close one on one bonding session between you and your baby.

Unless you grew up with younger brothers and sisters or are an aunt or uncle a few times over, there is a good chance you haven’t changed many nappies in your life, that is before your newborn arrives. Most new parents get to grips with nappy change after a few weeks, until then Huggies is here to give you a quick crash course in changing nappies. It’s probably a good thing too as you will end up changing your little tot’s nappy around 4000 times, that’s a lot of nappies (and doo doo).

As a guideline you should change your baby’s nappy about as often as he/she gets fed, or when you notice ‘that’ smell emanating from the vicinity of your baby. You need to change your baby’s nappy pretty frequently or he/she might get skin irritations from being in contact with wee or poo. There are different options when it comes to nappies such as re-usable or disposable. Disposable nappies like Huggies are very popular due to their convenience, because they generally fit very well, are comfortable and absorbent and therefore gentle on the skin of your baby.

Things you need to change a nappy

Changing a nappy for a first time parent can be a bit daunting so the best tip is to get prepared early. You will need quite a few things to successfully change a baby’s nappy. What follows are the essentials for a successful nappy change:

• A safe nappy change area: This can be a dedicated nappy change unit, a bed or even the floor. The most important thing to remember, is to have all your nappy change items within your reach, but out of your baby’s. The area should also be warm, dry and clean. Wash your hands before changing your baby to limit the chance of any infection. Finally, make sure your infant is never left unattended on a raised tabletop where they can fall.
• Nappies: As mentioned above, you can use disposable or cloth nappies. Both have their advantages. However, if you do use disposable nappies, then a good quality nappy is important so that you can avoid nappy rash or other skin problems. Huggies Nappies have an ultra-absorbent DryTouch Layer specially designed to keep your baby dry and comfortable. Huggies also come in a variety of sizes with large, stretchy grip tabs so your baby always experiences a snug fit and the nappy change is an easy process.
• Baby Wipes: Baby wipes are necessary for changing nappies with number two’s. Not only do they clean and sanitise your baby, but they are soft, gentle on skin, and easy to dispose of. A good baby wipe will be able to clean up most of a small bum in one or two wipes to avoid overly irritating skin.
• Baby/ Nappy Rash Cream: Don’t be alarmed if you take off your baby’s nappy and the skin underneath is red and irritated, lots of babies get nappy rash. The best remedy for the situation is a hypoallergenic, nappy rash cream. Baby’s skins are super sensitive so you may want to steer away from nappy rash creams that contain fragrances and perfumes. Apply the nappy rash cream to your baby’s affected areas after cleaning your baby and before putting the new nappy on for best results.
• Rubbish Bin: You might find that you have a lot of waste from just one nappy change. From the actual nappy (with its dubious contents) to soiled wipes and even a disposable change mat you may have used. It’s no good carrying all these soiled items to the garbage, imagine if a bag broke and spilled over your prized rug (or Chihuahua). Rather have your bin nearby so you can just dump all those nasty bits and pieces.

As always after handling hazardous materials, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly. You can also make the nappy change experience more pleasant for your baby by giving him/her a toy or rattle to play with. We have stacks more information about nappy change for newborns, infants and toddlers nappy change, and a step by step guide on what to do when with regard to nappy change. With a bit of help from Huggies and plenty of practice, you will soon become an expert in the discipline of nappy change.