Nappies are going to play an important role in your life for some time! Here’s what you need to know
Your little bundle is here at last. One of your first duties as a new parent? Nappy changing. It may take a few attempts, but once you’ve nailed it, it will become second nature. Newborn babies need around 10-12 nappy changes a day, so expect to get through up to 84 nappies a week.
Read on for our guide to newborn nappies and find out how to nappy change like a pro.
Newborn nappies: what to look for
You’ll find that most nappy brands start from size 0 (typically for newborns weighing under 6lbs) or size 1 (for babies weighing from 4-11lbs). To ensure that your baby’s nappy is the perfect fit, see if you can fit two fingers under the waistband once it’s fastened – this means it’s a comfortable size without being too tight or loose.
Newborn nappies need softness, comfort and protection; it’s important that your baby’s delicate skin remains healthy and dry, to help prevent irritation.
The only newborn nappy approved by the British Skin Foundation, Pampers New Baby nappies feature double leg cuffs that prevent leaks for up to 12 hours, and a breathable, protective layer that quickly absorbs wetness and mess.
How often should I change my baby’s nappy?
Ideally, your baby’s nappy should be changed as soon as they’ve pooed. This prevents your newborn’s delicate skin from getting sore or red. ‘Some nappies feature an indicator strip that changes colour when it detects moisture,’ says antenatal educator Victoria Rose (@allaboutbabies). ‘Some babies might cry when they have a dirty nappy, but parents should still check their baby’s nappy at regular intervals throughout the day.’
Where’s the best place to nappy change?
You’ll want to choose a safe and comfortable surface for changing your little one’s nappy – it doesn’t need to be anything fancy. A changing mat or towel on the floor is fine. If you have more than one child, this also allows you to keep an eye on both at the same time.
A dedicated changing table or a changing unit on top of a chest of drawers is kinder on your back, and there may also be storage for your nappy changing gear.
‘I chose a changing mat placed on the floor downstairs with a basket of supplies during the day and a changing unit in the nursery for the nights,’ says author of The Mother-Loving Guide, Silke Thistlewood (@raiseupmums). ‘Not having to go upstairs each time to change my baby was really helpful.’
What gear do you need to change a nappy?
Make sure you have these essentials handy for fuss-free nappy changing.
Nappies
Changing mat or towel
Baby wipes or cotton wool and warm water
Nappy bags
Barrier cream (to help prevent nappy rash)
Clean baby clothes (in case of little accidents)
Nappy bin (optional)
Hand sanitiser (if you can’t get to a tap afterwards)
Disinfectant wipes (to clean the changing mat)
How many times will my newborn poo each day?
How often your newborn poos can depend on how they’re fed, but usually it’s around 4 or 5 times a day. Once they’ve pooed, it’s important to praise your baby. ‘Stay calm and relaxed,’ says Victoria. ‘When you’re changing them, congratulate them for doing a poo. This makes it an achievement rather than associating it with negativity.’
How to change your newborn’s nappy
It’s easiest to change nappies when your baby is calm and content (easier said than done, of course!). Before you start, wash your hands and make sure you have everything you need nearby. Realising you’ve left the wipes in your changing bag when you’re halfway through isn’t ideal!
Place baby onto a changing mat: Gently support them onto the changing surface, checking it’s not too cold first.
Clean baby’s bottom: Whether they’ve done a wee or poo, it’s important to clean baby fully. If they’ve done a poo, use the clean parts of the nappy to wipe off any residue on their bottom. Then, with baby wipes or cotton wool dipped in warm water, remove the remaining poo and wipe until clean. ‘If baby starts wriggling, you could give them a baby toy or try singing, blowing raspberries and making silly noises to distract them,’ suggests Silke.
Let baby enjoy nappy-free time: If the surface and room temperature are warm enough, let baby go nappy-free for a few minutes. This gives them the chance to do some stretching and kicking whilst giving their skin some air. You could use this time to bond by chatting or even singing to your little bundle.
Dispose of their nappy and wash your hands: Once you’ve popped their nappy into a nappy bag and then into the bin, wash your hands thoroughly. It’s sensible to clean the changing mat, ready for the next nappy change.
