Baby care 101: Nappy changing
Not sure if you want to hear this, but you can budget on changing your newborn baby’s nappy around eight to twelve times per day. As they get older, this will reduce to around six nappy changes a day. Clichéd, but you’ll soon be able to do it with your eyes shut. Which is handy, as you’ll no doubt have to change a fair few in the dark.
Cloth nappies are a great option - both for your budget and the environment. You don’t have to commit to all cloth though, even just swapping one disposable for a cloth nappy each day makes a truckload of difference to the world’s rubbish problems, over the duration of your child’s nappy-wearing years.
Five tips for changing:
1. Have a set place to change nappies. Some parents find it easy to use the floor, which is the safest place, but many parents find this too hard on their backs.
2. Cover the change mat with an easily washable cloth, like a square cloth nappy.
3. Keep products together in a container or basket - creams, nappies, wipes or cloths, nappy bags - and have a bin or bucket handy.
4. Roll up dirty disposable nappies and fasten securely with the tabs so they are quick and easy to dispose of.
5. Make sure the new nappy isn’t too loose, and if there’s a ruffle around the leg opening, make sure it’s facing outwards to prevent leakage.
AS FEATURED IN ISSUE 38 OF OHbaby! MAGAZINE. CHECK OUT OTHER ARTICLES IN THIS ISSUE BELOW
