Things Needed to Change a Baby

• Supplies

  Items needed to begin the changing process include wipes specifically designed for use on a baby's skin or warm wet cloths for cleaning the baby's skin, diaper rash cream or petroleum jelly to moisturize the baby's bottom, disposable diaper or cloth diaper with pins or diaper fasteners and a diaper pail for disposing of the soiled diaper.

• Diaper Removal

  Lay the baby flat on the changing table or soft surface. Unfasten each side of the soiled diaper. Grasp the baby's ankles together gently, lift the baby slightly and fold the diaper in toward the baby while wiping and cleaning the baby. If the baby is a boy, place a cloth over the boy's penis to avoid any unexpected urination streams when removing the soiled diaper. Remove the soiled diaper and discard it in a diaper pail. Use wipes to clean front and back area of baby. If the baby is a girl, wipe from front to back to avoid any bacteria that might cause infection. Apply cream or petroleum jelly on baby's bottom if needed.

• Diaper Replacement

  Place fresh diaper under baby by placing one half under the baby's bottom, and then lower baby's bottom on to the diaper. Take the upper half of the diaper and cover the front part of the baby. Use adhesive fasteners that are attached to each side of the disposable diaper, or if cloth, pin the diaper on each side. Leave some room in the leg opening for mobility. Follow manufacturer's instructions for securing diaper so that it doesn't rub against the baby's legs. If the baby still has an umbilical stump, do not cover it up, but fold the diaper so that the stump is still visible. Throughout the changing process, never leave a baby unattended. As soon as the changing is complete and the baby is safely removed from the changing table, wash your hands throughly.

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References & Resources

• Baby Center
• Diaper Change Diapers
• Diaper Changing Troubles